The Seattle personal injury lawyers at Oshan & Associates specializes in personal injury law in Washington State and are dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of their cases.
Personal injury law is a vital area of legal practice that deals with cases where individuals suffer harm due to the negligence or wrongful conduct of others. This field encompasses a wide range of incidents, including vehicle accidents, slip and fall accidents, truck accidents , and more.
Personal injury law allows individuals who have been injured—physically, emotionally, or psychologically—to seek compensation for their damages. This compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses resulting from the injury.
Personal injury claims are typically based on the legal theory of negligence, which involves proving that another party failed to exercise a reasonable standard of care, leading to the injury.
Evan M. Oshan and his team are not afraid to go against powerful corporations or the government. With his ‘never say defeat’ spirit and his push to represent the best of his Clients' interests Evan M. Oshan has been called a warrior for justice. Evan Oshan has experience working with all types of personal injury claims in the state of Washington including but not limited to car accidents , bus accidents, truck accidents, and more.
Evan M. Oshan was quoted, featured and interviewed in hundreds of news publications worldwide including but not limited to: New York Post, TMZ, ABC, CBS, NBC, Washington Post, Fox, Inside Edition, The Seattle Times, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Times, CNBC, New York Post, CNN, New York Daily News, Metro UK, People, PBS and more.
Oshan & Associates, P.C. has consistently and effectively secured substantial international, national, and local media contracts, appearing in a plethora of media coverage pieces for high profile cases. Obtaining multiple gag order confidential settlements with hard line negotiation achieving success in settlements and favorable verdicts. No case is too small, every person matters and every case is unique and treated with the outmost respect.
Mike L.
"Excellent Representation from Evan! As the old saying goes, there is the best and the rest. Evan is absolutely the Best! Evan helped me when no other attorney would. Seriously, too much to list in a review. If you are fortunate enough to have Evan as your attorney he will be your true advocate. You will be in great hands and can rest easy as he will perform professional work on your behalf that no other lawyer will. In my case, one of the ways he helped me is he hired multiple top shelf professionals each in their own field of study to interview me to provide expert testimony of my situation. That's just one of the many! I have been around quite a while, I have had lawyers represent me over the past decades that never did anything close to what Evan has done for me. Evan is a high level expert Super Lawyer and at the same time down to earth and easy to talk to. Evan is a wonderful caring person so a pleasure to work with. He will always have your best interest at heart. Evan is now my attorney for life. If you need representation, look no further. Do yourself a favor and give Evan a call!"
"I worked with Evan Oshan after a car accident in 2021, and I can honestly say he was amazing. He helped me find great doctors who really got me back on track to living my normal life. I’m so happy with how everything turned out, especially the settlement he got for me. Not only did he handle the auto insurance and make the whole process smooth, but he also went the extra mile and helped me clear up some liens I had from child support. That was a huge weight off my shoulders. Evan was always professional, but also super understanding and supportive. He truly cared about helping me, and I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney. If you need someone who will fight for you and make sure you’re taken care of, I’d definitely recommend him."
(GOOGLE REVIEW)
"Evan Oshan represented me in a personal injury claim from a car accident, He is very professional and a top notch negotiator and will get the most from your claim as he possibly can. The process took a little longer than I expected but the end result was worth it. I would use him again and recommend him to anyone looking for solid representation from someone that doesn’t pass you off to one of his colleagues but handles it himself."
The value of a personal injury case in Seattle, Washington, varies significantly from case to case basis. There are various factors and considerations such as:
- Property Damage
- Lost Wages
- Economic Damages
- Non-Economic Damages
Your qualified and knowledgable attorney in Seattle Washington would be able to take a look at your case and advise you how much your case is worth. Oshan & Associates offer a free no obligation consultation in which we can determine the amount of compensation you are owed.
Insurance companies often consider the above along with the accident facts along with the severity of the injuries, medical records, and costs and will minimize your compensation. This is why it is crucial to have a knowledgable Seattle personal injury attorney on your side!
To succeed in a personal injury claim, the following key elements must be established:
1. Duty of Care: The defendant had a legal obligation to act in a way that would protect others from harm. For example, drivers must adhere to traffic laws and operate their vehicles safely.
2. Breach of Duty: The defendant failed to meet the expected standard of care. This could involve actions like speeding, ignoring traffic signals, or failing to maintain a safe environment in a business.
3. Causation: The defendant's breach of duty directly caused the injury. This requires demonstrating that the injury would not have occurred without the defendant's negligence.
4. Damages: The injured party must have suffered actual damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Comparative Negligence Washington State follows a comparative negligence system, which means that if the injured party is found to be partially at fault for the accident, their compensation may be reduced by their percentage of fault. For instance, if a jury determines that a plaintiff is 20% responsible for their injuries, their compensation will be reduced by that amount. This system encourages accountability among all parties involved.
In Washington, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the injury. This means that individuals must file their claims within this timeframe to preserve their right to seek compensation. Failing to do so will likely result in the dismissal of the claim.
1. Motor Vehicle Accidents: According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, there were over 108,000 vehicle collisions in Washington in 2020, resulting in more than 24,000 injuries. Car accidents represent a significant portion of personal injury cases.
2. Slip and Fall Accidents: Property owners have a duty to maintain safe premises. Slip and fall accidents can occur due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or inadequate lighting. The National Floor Safety Institute reports that slip and fall accidents account for over 1 million emergency room visits each year in the U.S.
3. Medical Malpractice: In Washington, medical malpractice claims can arise when healthcare providers fail to meet the standard of care, resulting in patient harm. The Washington State Department of Health reported that there were over 1,300 malpractice claims filed against healthcare providers in 2020.
4. Workplace Injuries: Washington has a strong workers' compensation system that provides benefits to employees injured on the job. However, employees may also pursue personal injury claims against third parties if their injuries were caused by someone other than their employer.
5. Product Liability: Manufacturers and sellers have a responsibility to ensure their products are safe for consumers. When defective products cause injuries, victims may pursue claims for compensation.
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety should always be your top priority. If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately. Even if your injuries seem minor, a medical evaluation is crucial for documenting your injuries and ensuring proper treatment.
Step 2: Document the Incident
Gather as much evidence as possible related to the incident. This may include: - Photographs of the scene - Contact information for witnesses - Police reports (if applicable) - Medical records and bills - Any relevant correspondence (insurance claims, etc.)
Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Company
If the incident involves a vehicle accident or another situation covered by insurance, notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the necessary information but avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault or speak to a qualified personal injury attorney in Seattle that knows how to handle the insurance companies.
Step 4: Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
Engaging an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial for maximizing your chances of success. An attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate your case, and guide you through the legal process. At Oshan & Associates, we offer free consultations to discuss your case.
Step 5: Investigate the Claim
Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation of the incident. This may involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting experts to build a strong case. Establishing liability is key to a successful claim.
Step 6: Send a Demand Letter
Once your attorney has gathered sufficient evidence, they will draft a demand letter to the at-fault party’s insurance company. This letter outlines the details of the incident, the injuries sustained, and the compensation sought. The insurance company may respond with a settlement offer to your attorney.
Step 7: Negotiate
Negotiation is a critical part of the claims process. Your attorney will work to negotiate maximum settlement amount with the insurance company. It’s essential to be patient during this stage, as negotiations can take time. If negotiations fail or your Attorney thinks they are not offering you what your case is worth, your Seattle Personal Injury Lawyer will take the next legal steps.
Step 8: File a Lawsuit (if necessary)
If negotiations do not yield a satisfactory settlement, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit. This involves submitting a complaint to the appropriate court, outlining your claims and damages. In Washington, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years, so it’s crucial to act within this timeframe.
Step 9: Prepare for Trial
If your case goes to trial, your attorney will prepare you and your case for court. This includes gathering additional evidence, preparing witnesses, and developing a trial strategy.
Step 10: Trial and Verdict
During the trial, both sides will present their cases, including evidence and witness testimonies. After deliberation, the judge or jury will render a verdict. If you win, you will be awarded compensation for your injuries and damages.
Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here’s why:
1. Knowledge of Personal Injury Law: Personal injury attorneys understand the complexities of the law, including statutes of limitations, liability, and insurance negotiations. Their expertise allows them to navigate the legal system effectively.
2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Attorneys have the resources and knowledge to conduct thorough investigations, ensuring that all evidence is gathered to support your case.
3. Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies often offer low initial settlements to minimize their payouts. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf, working to secure a fair and just settlement.
4. Trial Experience: If your case goes to trial, having an attorney with trial experience can make a significant difference. They will know how to present your case effectively and advocate for your rights in court.
5. Peace of Mind: Dealing with a personal injury claim can be stressful. Having a qualified Seattle injury attorney handle the legal aspects allows you to focus on your recovery and well-being.
To conclude personal injury law is a critical area of legal practice that provides individuals with the opportunity to seek compensation for injuries caused by the negligence of others. In Washington State, understanding the laws surrounding personal injury claims, including comparative negligence and the statute of limitations, is essential for navigating the process successfully.
At Oshan & Associates, we are committed to helping clients in Washington State obtain justice for their injuries. Our experienced team of personal injury attorneys is dedicated to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. If you have been injured due to someone else's negligence, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation.
We will work tirelessly to protect your interests and guide you through the complexities of your personal injury claim. Let us help you on the path to recovery and justice. Call us today or fill out our online contact form to get started.
Seattle Personal Injury Lawyers serving King County, Washington since 2000. Seattle Personal injury practice areas include but not limited to the following:
Certain Personal Injury cases which we take nation-wide. National Personal Injury practice areas include but not limited to the following: