Seattle Personal Injury Attorney Chris Thayer
Seattle Personal Injury Attorney Chris Thayer
Handling Personal Injury Claims in the Seattle Area and Throughout Washington Since 1995

My name is Chris Thayer and I am a personal injury attorney practicing in downtown Seattle. I handle personal injury, medical malpractice and wrongful death claims throughout the greater Seattle area, including Issaquah, Mercer Island and Kirkland.

I am here to help you.

Call for a free consultation (206) 340-2008

The Seattle Personal Injury Blog

Burden of Proof in Renton Car Crashes

Posted Friday, November 17, 2023 by Chris Thayer

According to a report on King 5 local news, a Renton car crash left one man killed and one 72-year-old woman critically injured.

According to the Renton Police Department (RPD), the crash occurred at the 154th Place SE Intersection on Mapply Valley Highway.

Renton police reported that Washington State Patrol (WSP) had attempted to pull the driver over, when he fled, traveling at a high rate of speed. The suspect ran through a red light and crashed into the victim’s SUV. Officers are investigating the crash.If you or a loved one have been involved in a car crash, talking with an experienced Personal Injury Lawyer can help provide peace of mind.

*The Burden of Proof in Renton Car Accident Cases*People making a car accident claim often settle claims with insurance companies.

Typically, you will need to explain to an adjuster how the insured person was at fault. You will also need to provide documentation as to how much the accident cost you.

While many cases settle out of court, evidence is still key in demonstrating your version of events.

*What Does Burden of Proof Mean in Washington Car Accidents?*In Washington, the burden of proof standard for car accident personal injury cases is “beyond a preponderance of evidence.” This is the responsibility of the person bringing the case, also known as the plaintiff.

A plaintiff must provide sufficient evidence to convince the court that the person being sued, also known as the defendant, is responsible.

While it may seem unbalanced or unfair, the defendant is not required to prove their innocence. It is the responsibility of the plaintiff to provide enough evidence that monetary damages can be awarded.

*What Kind of Evidence is Needed in Renton?*In proving fault for an accident, much of the most effective evidence is documented in the police report. Typically, this is where you will find photographs, witness statements, and eyewitness testimony of the accident.

In addition, as a plaintiff, you may have medical records documenting the injuries, as well as financial records showing the impact on earnings.

*If You are Injured in a Renton Car Crash*If you are the plaintiff, it is not enough to believe that your case is ironclad and that the other person is at fault. You will need to show all the evidence above and also prove that the injuries were not caused by other factors.

While these rules may seem challenging to a non-lawyer, a personal injury attorney is skilled in the rules of evidence and familiar with what constitutes a burden of proof in Washington courts.

*When to Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer in Renton*In Washington, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of an accident to file a legal suit. If you have been involved in a car collision, the clock starts ticking on the date of the accident.

If you have been involved in a car accident, you may have questions about how to receive compensation for your injuries. An experienced personal injury attorney in King County skilled in Washington Law may help answer your questions.

Insights Into Bellevue Car Crashes

Posted Friday, November 10, 2023 by Chris Thayer

According to the story in Downtown Bellevue, an early morning crash left one man dead and a 26-year-old Bellevue resident with non-life-threatening injuries. The passenger was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the accident. The driver was transported immediately to the hospital for treatment.

The crash occurred on 108th Avenue Northeast near the interchange with 520.

Bellevue police expressed strong suspicion that alcohol was significantly involved in this tragic accident. The investigation is ongoing.

In Washington, the term you’ll hear is “vehicular homicide,” which means causing the death of another person while driving under the influence. It is considered a class A felony, and a conviction carries up to life in prison and a maximum $50,000 fine.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a car crash, talking with an experienced Personal Injury Lawyer can help provide peace of mind.

*Fault-Based Car Accident Laws in Washington*Several states in the United States have what is known as a no-fault car insurance system. Under this system, after an accident, a driver must make an injury claim with their car insurance. Under these rules, the injury claim must be made even if they did not cause the crash.

However, Washington has adopted a fault-based system. This means that if you are injured, or your property is damaged in an auto accident, you do not need to first file a claim against your auto insurance policy. Instead, you are free to bring an insurance claim or file a lawsuit against whoever is legally at fault.

*Auto Insurance Requirements in Washington *In Washington, any person who operates a motor vehicle must meet specific guidelines to meet the financial responsibility requirement, Wash. Rev. Code 46.30.20 (1) (a) (2023)).The guidelines of the state’s minimum liability coverage limits include $25,000 for bodily injury to, or the death of, a person, $50,000 for bodily injury or deaths per accident, and $10,000 for property damage per accident. (Wash. Rev. Code § 46.29.490 (2023)).

*Washington Car Accident Statute of Limitations*A statute of limitations is a law that defines a strict deadline on when you have the right to file a lawsuit. This varies from state to state as well as between different types of lawsuits. For example, an auto accident statute of limitations might be different from a medical malpractice case.

In Washington, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of an accident to file a legal suit. If you have been involved in a car collision, the clock starts ticking on the date of the accident.

If you miss the statute of limitations and attempt to file your car accident lawsuit after the filing deadline, you are out of luck. The court will dismiss your case. When the statute of limitations has passed, you lose your right to sue.

*When to Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer in Bellevue*If you are unsure about whether to file a lawsuit or about the statute of limitations in your case, it could be useful to contact an experienced Personal Injury Lawyer in Bellevue.

What to Do if You are in a Burien Car Crash

Posted Friday, November 3, 2023 by Chris Thayer

According to a story on Fox 13, three people are dead, and one is seriously injured in a Tukwila crash. The crash, according to Puget Sound Fire, happened around 11.30 pm on S. 128th St, east of Military Road.

The heavy rescue squad cut into the vehicle to get two others out. One person died at the scene, and two victims were found outside the car. Another person was taken to Harborview Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. Tukwila Police Department Traffic Unit is investigating.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a car crash, talking with an experienced Personal Injury Lawyer can help provide peace of mind.

*If You Have Been in a Burien Car Accident*No one wakes up in the morning or heads out for a quick run to the grocery store at night, imagining that they will be in a car accident.

When the unthinkable happens, it helps to know what to do. Prepare yourself so you are calm and ready in the event of an emergency or collision.

Naturally, after an accident, things can seem overwhelming. According to a report from AAA, it helps if you can take specific actions after a car accident.

*Stay Calm and Focus on Safety First After a Burien Crash*The top priority is getting to safety. After an accident, pull to the side of the road. Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary. Staying clear of traffic can help other drivers and also may assist emergency rescue to get to the scene.

*Collect Necessary Information for Drivers in Burien*If you can collect information, AAA advises gathering facts from everyone involved. This includes gathering names, contact information, phone and license plates of other drivers and passengers. If possible, get information about insurance companies from other drivers involved.

*Document the Scene in a Burien Car Collision*It may seem tedious, but if possible, take photos of the situation. Note any road conditions, debris, or hazards in the road that could be useful for the future.

*Limit What You Say in a Burien Car Crash*As odd as it may feel, limit your statements. You may feel sorry that the accident occurred, yet saying “I’m sorry” can possibly be interpreted as accepting fault for the situation.

Avoid saying that the accident was your fault. Similarly, avoid making accusations, blaming, or yelling at the other party. These comments may be used against you going forward.

*Take Photos to Show the Impact of a Burien Crash*A picture is worth a thousand words, and this is especially true in documenting the damage to your vehicle. Show the impact to convey the full picture. Take photos from all sides of the vehicle, as well as document damage on any of the other vehicles. Consult Your Insurance Agent and Lawyer in Burien

Talking with a professional insurance agent can help you know what to do next. Insurance agents may have insights into the best next steps regarding who to notify and file a claim.

Talking to an experienced Washington Personal Injury Lawyer may help to learn legal options.

*When to Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer in Burien*In Washington, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of an accident to file a legal suit. If you have been involved in a car collision, the clock starts ticking on the date of the accident.

Why is a Personal Injury Demand Letter Important in Renton?

Posted Friday, October 27, 2023 by Chris Thayer

In personal Injury (PI) cases, negotiations for a settlement typically begin with what is known as a demand letter.

*What is a Demand Letter in Renton Personal Injury?*A demand letter is a formal, written request to settle your personal injury claim. It is an essential step taken before you file a lawsuit. If you have been involved in a personal injury in Renton, talking with an experienced personal injury attorney may help you get oriented to the legal landscape.

*Why is a Personal Injury Demand Letter Important?*Personal Injury demand letters are vitally important because they set the tone that encourages settlement.

*Encourage Settlement Negotiations in Renton*Legal proceedings tend to be expensive and time-consuming. They are stressful for both sides of the proceedings. A well-written demand letter encourages prompt settlement without the stress of a lawsuit.

Chances of getting paid are likely to increase when you make your case clearly and well-organized in writing.

*Send a Message of Seriousness in Renton Cases*A well-organized letter sends a message to the insurance company. While insurance adjusters see hundreds of cases, a clear demand letter backed up with solid evidence spells out the reasons to settle. It lets adjusters know that you mean business and lets them know that you are not going to fade away quietly into the mist.

*Get Organized With Evidence in Renton Accidents*As you prepare the demand letter, you’ll gather vital evidence. For example, if you have been in a car collision, you will get the police report. You may also speak with the reporting officer. If you have taken statements from witnesses, these would also be part of the written documentation.

Similarly, you’ll gather proof if you have lost time at work due to the accident. This may vary based on your employment. It could include wage receipts as well as benefits documents from your employer.

If you have had medical care as a result of injuries you received in an accident, gather the documents. You may need to contact your hospital or medical provider’s office for documents. Gather the bills, medical records, and prescription records as evidence of expenses.

*Know The Law in Renton Personal Injury Cases*If you are unfamiliar with the applicable law, consider speaking with a legal professional. This may help you prepare an effective demand letter and understand what is needed to prove a case.

*Key Elements of a Good Demand Letter in Renton*While every case is unique, a good personal demand letter covers four essentials.First, the relevant facts. This can be described by four “W’s” standing for who, what, when, and where. These are the essence of who was involved, what occurred, and when and where the incident happened.

Second, the injuries and damages. This is often divided into two sets – economic damages and non-economic damages.

Third, the letter explains why the other side is legally responsible. Fourth, the letter explains the total damages that you have calculated.

Finally, you will include a deadline for when you require a response. 30 days is a common amount. However, this varies depending on the statute of limitations.

*Talk to a Dedicated King County Personal Injury Attorney*If you have been involved in an accident, navigating all the legal and medical issues regarding your case can be extremely stressful. An experienced personal injury attorney may be able to provide legal insights related to your injury.

What to Do in a Traffic Accident in Kent

Posted Friday, October 20, 2023 by Chris Thayer

If you are involved in a car accident in Kent, it helps to know what to do after the accident and how the state’s laws regarding car accidents may affect you.

According to a Fox News report, at least one person died in a crash involving a dump truck on SR 167 in Kent, Washington. The significant crash led to a full closure of the northbound on-ramp from SR 516 in Kent. The right lane of northbound SR167 at SR 516 was also blocked.

Emergency crews worked to clear the area, and the details continue to unfold.

If you have been injured and are unclear about the basics of what to do next, consider talking with a personal injury lawyer. Your legal counsel can help you understand Washington state laws about car accidents.

*Car Accident Reporting in Kent, Washington*It is useful to know the legal guidelines for reporting a car accident in Washington.In Washington state, if a police officer responds to an accident, and the damage is $1,000 or more to any vehicle or property, or there is injury or death of any person, the officer must file a police report.

According to Wash. Rev. Code § 46.5.30 (3) (2023), this reporting requirement is handled by the police if they respond to an accident. When no report is filed by a police officer, it is your responsibility to report the accident within four days of the incident.

The reporting responsibility applies to anyone involved, whether you were a driver, property owner, pedestrian, or bicyclist.

*State Laws in Washington are Fault-Based *Washington state has a traditional “fault-based” system for insurance. This means that if you are injured, or your property is damaged, you are free to bring an insurance claim or file a lawsuit against whoever is legally responsible. In Washington, you do not need to first file a claim against your auto policy.

*Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Kent*A statute of limitations is a law defining strict deadlines on when you have a right to file a lawsuit in court. These statutes can be complicated, as the details vary depending on the type of lawsuit.

For most Washington car accident lawsuits, the general statute of limitations is three years. This is the same amount of time applied to most Washington personal injury lawsuits.

The three-year limitation period also applies if a victim’s surviving relatives want to bring a wrongful death lawsuit. The time frame may start later if the victim’s death occurs later than the date of the accident.

*What if You Miss The Statute of Limitations*Typically, if you miss the filing deadline for a car accident lawsuit, the court will dismiss your case. Once the statute of limitations is passed, you lose your right to file a lawsuit.

*Talk to an Experienced King County Personal Injury Attorney*If you have been involved in an accident and are worried about filing an insurance claim or lawsuit, you may have questions and concerns about the process. An experienced personal injury attorney may be able to provide legal insights for moving forward.