Washington Injury Lawyer Blog

When you're involved in an accident, the last thing most people think about is what do I need to do to document that the other driver was at fault. You are likely in shock and disoriented and trying to make sure that you and the other people involved in the accident are ok. Then the driver who just ran the stop sign at a typical four way stop in Seattle or Everett, comes up and says it was his or her fault and apologizes to you. The other driver was clearly at fault so you decide to not call the police, especially since the other driver admitted fault to you.

You then get home and have a damaged car and potential injuries, but at least the other driver's insurance company will take care of your damages. Then a week later you recieve a letter from the other driver's insurance company that they have completed their investigation and based upon the statement of their insured, have determined that you were at fault for the accident! They also let you know that they will be seeking payment from you for the damage caused to their insured's car. Yes this does happen. It is truly unfortunate, but after a little time to think about the situation, far too many people change their story to avoid an at-fault accident which will cause their insurance rates to increase.

I recognize that the police are not available for every single accident, but if you are involved in an accident, make every effort to have the police show up and write an accident report. In too many cases, it is simply too difficult to prove fault after the fact without a police report. I also recommend that everyone carry some sort of camera in their car and take pictures of the accident scene. Many clients have provided pictures from their cell phones which is powerful evidence that cannot be disputed.

Posted by John Williams | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Car & Truck Accidents

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I usually receive a blank stare when I ask if someone has PIP coverage, but it's a very important and fairly inexpensive coverage on your automobile policy. PIP coverage has to be offered to you when you obtain an automobile insurance policy and has to be rejected in writing if you do not want the coverage. PIP is generally available with limits of $10,000.00 or $35,000.00.

PIP will pay for accident related medical expenses, wage loss (up to a maximum amount per week set by the policy), and necessary household expenses such as house cleaning and yard services. PIP is no fault coverage, which means it is available to you regardless of your fault for the accident. PIP is especially important if you do not have health insurance, otherwise, obtaining medical care in the event of an auto accident is very difficult.

Perhaps the biggest misconception regarding PIP coverage is that is really isn't needed if you aren't at fault for an accident, since the other insurance company will pay for your medical expenses. While this is technically true, they have no obligation to pay as you incur your treatment which is critical. Their only obligation is to pay for your damages either through settlement or verdict, after you have incurred your medical expenses.

If you do not have PIP coverage or simply don't know if you do or not, contact your insurance agent and have it added. It's costs very little so you get a lot of bang for your buck if you ever need it.

Posted by John Williams | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Insurance

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Can you imagine being a tenant in an apartment complex, your building catches on fire and burns to the ground with all of your possessions? I can't. And then, when you don't think it can get any worse, Farmers Insurance comes knocking, wanting you to pay them $420,000.00 for the damage to the apartment complex!

This happened to Chris Christoffersen and her daughter Melissa in University Place, Washington. The fire department had ruled the fire accidental and discovered it was caused when the Christoffersen's couch was pushed against the baseboard heater. At first, it was a phone call from Farmers wanting $350,000.00 to repair the complex. And then a bill from a collections agency demanding $420,000.00.

Farmers eventually dropped the matter after being contacted by the KOMO 4 problem solvers, but the arrogance of Farmers is simply amazing. The Washington State Insurance Commissioner stated that Washington Courts have ruled that insurance companies cannot hold tenants responsible for fire damages unless it's expressly written in the lease. But that didn't seem to matter to Farmers.

Posted by John Williams | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Insurance Bad Faith

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Approximately 73,000 policy holders in Washington, including the Seattle area, are insured with HealthMarkets which provides insurance to small businesses and the self-employed.

HealthMarkets, based out of Texas, has been accused of bad business practices following an investigation by several state insurance commissioners. HealthMarkets include subsidiaries MEGA Life and Health Insurance of Oklahoma, Mid-West National Life Insurance of Tennessee and Chesapeake Life Insurance of Oklahoma. The investigation revealed that these companies improperly denied claims, delayed refunds and misrepresented coverage.

If you are insured by any of these companies, it is very important that you contact our office or the Washington State Insurance Commissioner's Office for advice and to advise of any problems you may have had with these companies.

Posted by John Williams | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Insurance Bad Faith

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Whether you are out walking at Green Lake in Seattle, or at your neighbor's house, how often have you heard don't worry, my dog won't bite? While this may be true for many dogs, owners sometimes under appreciate just how dangerous their dog may be, especially to children. In the United States, dog bite victims requiring medical treatment average 800,000 annually. And sadly, children make up 50% of the victims.While most injuries from dog attacks are not fatal, on average, a dozen people die each year due to vicious dog attacks.

It is the responsibility of dog owners to control their pets, especially those owners who choose to own larger breeds such as Pit Bulls, Rottweilers and German Shepherds. Generally, the larger the dog, the greater the chance of serious injuries occurring during an attack. While dog owners need to ensure that their dogs are securely confined on their property and properly socialized, all of us have to do our part to not become a victim.

We need to be aware of our surroundings and children especially, need to be made aware of the danger associated with dogs. Is there a neighbor on your street that routinely lets their dog run loose or doesn't have the ability to confine the dog to their property? Do you or your children visit friends and family with a dog or dogs? Even your aunt's dog that has always been very good with children, can attack if provoked.

Make sure that your children respect dogs and other animals and know not to tease or harass them. Talk with the neighbor that is letting their dog run loose and request that they become a responsible dog owner by properly confining their dog. Finally, listen to cautions by dog owners. But remember, even if you're told don't worry, they won't bite, you need to use your own judgment to protect yourself from potentially, a very serious injury.

Posted by John Williams | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Dog Bite Injuries , Injuries To Minors and Children

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