The First Eight Weeks of Your Personal Injury Case

Posted Sunday, May 24, 2015 by Chris Thayer

The first two months is a key time for your personal injury case. This is the period during which you will first meet and establish a working relationship with your Seattle personal injury attorney, and much of the research will take place. The following timeline provides a rough outline of what to expect during this time.

Week One

During the first week of your case you will meet your Seattle injury lawyer for the first time and discuss the case. The Contingent Fee Agreement will be discussed with you, and you will be asked to sign authorization forms so that your attorney can obtain such documents as your medical and employment records. You will be given an instruction booklet, and the attorney’s secretary will prepare your file.

Week Two through Four

Your attorney will then begin the initial investigation of your case. This will include the following:

• Visit the scene where the accident took place and take photographs.
• In some cases hire an investigator.
• Obtain the police report.
• Interview witnesses. This may be done in person or by phone.
• Check whether you have medical or health insurance that can help with medical costs. Make written contact with the defendant’s insurance company.
• Send a Notice of Claim by certified or registered mail.
• Ask you to provide any medical bills you have so far.
• Obtain the emergency report from the hospital, if applicable.

Weeks Four through Eight

During the next four weeks your attorney will continue to investigate your case. Among other things, he will:

• Obtain any additional medical bills and reports.
• If a report from the Secretary of State or other entity exists, obtain these.
• Finish contacting all potential witnesses in your case.
• Forward medical reports and bills, police reports, and other documents to the defendant’s insurance adjuster.
• Discuss the disposition of your case with the adjuster.
• Determine whether any expert witnesses will be needed and, if so, retain them.
• Meet with you to discuss your case.

Working with an Attorney

If you have been injured in an accident caused by another, it may be in your best interests to work with a Seattle personal injury attorney. Call Chris Thayer to arrange an initial consultation today at (866) 884-2417.