Legal Question in Personal Injury in Washington
Trip and fall injuries
I tripped and fell over an obscured object at the
entrance of an antique store. I broke my left
elbow, tore muscle in my right arm. I also landed
on my knees and caused a knee cap injury on
my right knee and also injured my left knee.
Everyday I have a new pain or sensation that
I was not aware of yesterday. I have not hired
an attorney for fear that the cost will eat up any
settlement I do receive. At this point, the insurance provider (store owners) has told us
that they are not liable and will only cover $1000.00 in medical bills. I have testimony from
the store owner that she too tripped over the same object but did not remove it. Is it going to be to my benefit to hire an attorney? What would be the worst case scenario?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Trip and fall injuries
The worst case scenario is what is happening to you now. The insurance co is only saying that they will pay the $1000. You should get an attorney because they will generally increase your chances of a settlement. Remember they only get paid if they obtain a settlement.
Call me for some help in finding an attorney in WA. 1-800-838-0800
Re: Trip and fall injuries
Yes, you need an attorney. The insurance company will normally attempt to satisfy you with as little as they can. Your significant and ongoing pain suggests greater damages than they are allowing.
In addition, there may be some need to address some of the finer points of property liability, which could depend on the particular details of your case.
An attorney will normally charge one third of the recovery for fees. If there is no recovery (such as a defense verdict after trial) there is no charge for attorney fees.
The costs (filing fee, records, experts, etc.) are always the client's obligation, win or lose.
Gary Preble
Olympia
360-943-6960