Spokane Personal Injury Lawyer

Key Takeaways

• Under Washington’s pure comparative negligence rule, injured people in Spokane can pursue compensation even if they are partially at fault for the accident. The amount they recover is reduced by their percentage of responsibility.
• McPartland Law Offices represents clients in trucking accidents, motor vehicle accidents, wrongful death claims, and other personal injury cases.
• Most personal injury claims in Washington must be filed within 3 years, making it important to act quickly and protect your right to compensation.
• A Spokane accident attorney can gather evidence, calculate damages such as medical bills and lost wages, and handle negotiations with the insurance company.
• McPartland Law Offices works on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront legal costs, and the firm only receives payment if compensation is recovered.

An accident can disrupt your life in an instant. Medical bills begin to add up quickly, and missed work creates stress, especially when your family depends on your income. Insurance companies may contact you, but their goal is to protect their bottom line — not yours. Accepting an early settlement could leave you responsible for future medical costs.

Waiting too long may also mean losing your right to file a personal injury claim under Washington law. That would prevent you from pursuing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and the pain and suffering you have experienced.

McPartland Law Offices helps Spokane residents navigate the legal process after a serious injury. From the first consultation through settlement or trial, our focus is on protecting your rights and guiding you at every stage.

Do I Need a Personal Injury Attorney in Spokane, WA?

After an accident, many people wonder whether they truly need a lawyer. At first, it may seem manageable on your own. In reality, insurance companies often work to minimize payouts, and their adjusters are trained to ask questions in ways that protect the company rather than the injured person.

Having a Spokane personal injury attorney on your side means you have an advocate focused only on your case. An attorney can:

• Collect and preserve evidence such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
• Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
• Calculate the value of your claim, including long-term medical needs and lost wages.
• File a personal injury lawsuit in Spokane courts if settlement talks do not resolve the case.
• Represent you at trial to pursue compensation under Washington law.

A lawyer can protect your legal rights and give you peace of mind while you focus on recovery.

Choose McPartland Law Office’s Spokane Personal Injury Lawyers

Choosing the right legal team matters after a serious injury. At McPartland Law Offices, we have years of experience representing clients throughout the Spokane area and eastern Washington. Our approach is built on clear communication, thorough preparation, and guidance during difficult times.

No Upfront Costs: How Our Contingency Fee Works

We operate on a contingency fee basis. That means you do not pay upfront legal fees. We only receive payment if we recover compensation on your behalf. You can also meet with us for a free consultation without financial risk.

Our Track Record of Winning Large Settlements

Our personal injury law firm has represented clients across Washington and the Pacific Northwest, achieving meaningful outcomes in serious cases, such as:

• $2,025,000 in a trucking collision/wrongful death case.
• $525,000 in a T-bone collision case.
• $400,000 in a rear-end collision case.

Hear What Our Clients Say About Working With The Award-Winning Lawyers at McPartland Law

“I am very very thankful & happy with Bryce McPartland & his whole staff. I came to McPartland Law hopeless after being mislead & mistreated as a client from another law firm the Grant County. From start to finish, they took care of my half started messy case kept me in the loop, & did all the work to make sure justice was served. Communication is amazing, don’t stress you or overwhelm you. Really fought for me & made sure i was taken care of. I would definitely say this is the best law firm in the area, really specialize in what they do, & take care of you. Thank you Mcpartland Law saved me from a lot of headache.” — Elizabeth

“Very helpful. Great people.They spent lots of time reviewing my case before letting me know what was best. Most others will want you to hire them right away before they even know if they can help.” — Seth

“Mr. McPartland did an excellent job in explaining the Washington State Loudermill process and hearing to me. He helped reduce my stress in explaining what options were available to me at a time when I truly felt like I had none. The time frame for a response to my employer was very short and I very much appreciated his ability to accommodate me in such a short time period. He provided me with professional expertise in order to communicate with my employer. His time and expertise were appreciated beyond words!” — Lisa

Types of Personal Injury Cases McPartland Law Handles in Spokane WA

McPartland Law Offices helps clients in many different practice areas and personal injury cases. While every case is unique, our approach is consistent: careful preparation, clear communication, and strong advocacy for your interests. Common cases in Spokane include:

• Truck accidents
• Car accidents
• Commercial vehicle accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
• Product liability
• Wrongful death
• Workplace accidents
• Premises liability
• Dog bites

When Should You Consult With McPartland Law Offices?

Reaching out to a lawyer soon after an accident can help you protect your claim and avoid mistakes that may affect your recovery. Early legal guidance also makes it easier to gather evidence and address problems before they grow more complicated.

You should consider contacting McPartland Law Offices if:

• You are involved in a collision with a commercial motor vehicle. The rules are different and investigation is key!
• Your injuries are serious, long-term, or require ongoing medical care.
• There is a dispute over who was at fault.
• The insurance company delays payment, denies your claim, or pressures you to settle quickly.
• Medical bills and household expenses are building up because you cannot work.
• An insurance adjuster asks you for a recorded statement.

Talking with an attorney at McPartland Law Offices gives you the opportunity to understand your options and focus on recovery while we handle the legal process.

What Should I Look for When Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer in Spokane?

Choosing the right attorney can affect both the process and the outcome of your case. When searching for a Spokane personal injury lawyer, it helps to look for:

• Experience with Washington personal injury cases, including knowledge of the laws and strategies that apply.
• Familiarity with Spokane courts, judges, and procedures.
• Clear communication and regular updates about your case.
• A contingency fee structure, meaning no upfront costs and no legal fees unless compensation is recovered. McPartland Law Offices follows this model.
• Positive feedback from past clients that reflects the firm’s approach and commitment.

McPartland Law Offices offers these qualities, giving clients guidance and support from your free consultation through resolution.

What Are the Most Common Injuries in Spokane Personal Injury Cases?

Accidents in Spokane can cause anything from minor injuries to serious, long-term conditions. Some of the more common injuries in personal injury cases include:

• Whiplash and other soft tissue damage.
• Broken bones and fractures.
• Spinal cord and back injuries.
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
• Internal organ damage.
• Cuts, bruises, and burns.

Treatment for these injuries is often costly and may continue for months or even years. Working with a Spokane personal injury lawyer can help make sure the full scope of medical care, both now and in the future, is considered in your claim.

What to Do After a Personal Injury in Spokane Valley

The steps you take after an accident can affect both your health and your legal claim. Having a clear plan helps protect your recovery and the strength of your case:

• Seek medical treatment right away. Even if injuries seem minor, a doctor can identify hidden problems and create important medical records.
• Report the accident to the police, your employer, or the property owner, depending on where it happened.
• Document the scene by taking photos, gathering witness names, and keeping copies of any reports.
• Collect contact information from the other driver and witnesses. Avoid apologizing or admitting fault.
• Track medical bills and missed work by keeping detailed records of your expenses and lost income.
• Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters or accepting an early settlement without legal advice.
• Contact McPartland Law Offices as soon as possible. Early involvement allows our team to gather evidence, protect your rights, and guide you through the process.

Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Personal Injury Claim

After an accident, certain choices can weaken your case and make it harder to recover compensation. It is important to avoid:

• Skipping medical appointments or ignoring follow-up care.
• Failing to follow your doctor’s instructions.
• Waiting too long to speak with an attorney.
• Apologizing or admitting fault.
• Sharing accident details on social media.
• Talking with insurance representatives before getting legal advice.
• Accepting a quick settlement without understanding the full extent of your damages.

What Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?

Every personal injury case is unique, and its value depends on several factors. While a Spokane personal injury lawyer can review your circumstances and provide guidance, claims are often evaluated based on:

• Medical expenses, both current and future.
• Lost wages and reduced earning ability.
• Pain and suffering.
• Emotional distress.
• Property damage.
• Liability and degree of fault.

Only after reviewing medical records, accident reports, and other evidence can an attorney give you a realistic idea of what your claim may be worth.

What Damages Can Your Personal Injury Attorneys Seek on Your Behalf?

A personal injury claim may involve different types of damages depending on the circumstances. In Spokane, these are generally divided into economic and non-economic categories.

Economic damages are financial losses that can be measured and documented, such as:

• Medical expenses, including hospital bills, rehabilitation, and future care needs.
• Lost income due to time away from work.
• Reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous job.
• Property damage, such as vehicle repairs or replacement.
• Out-of-pocket costs directly related to the accident.

Non-economic damages address the personal impact of an injury that cannot be measured in dollars. Washington does not cap non-economic damages in personal injury cases, ensuring full compensation for the personal toll an injury may take. Examples of non-economic damages include:

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma
• Loss of enjoyment of life due to lasting limitations
• Loss of companionship or support in a close relationship.

Wrongful death damages may also be pursued when a loved one’s life is lost due to negligence, such as:

• Funeral and burial expenses.
• Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided.
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and care.

These categories reflect both the financial costs and the personal effects of an accident. A Spokane personal injury lawyer can identify all potential damages and pursue them on your behalf.

What Factors Can Impact Your Personal Injury Claim?

Every personal injury case is different, and several factors can influence the outcome of your claim. In Spokane, common issues include:

• Severity of injuries: The extent of treatment, recovery time, and long-term impact on your health can affect the value of your case.
• Available evidence: Police reports, medical records, photos, and witness testimony help establish what happened and who is responsible.
• Comparative negligence: Under RCW 4.22.005, Washington’s comparative negligence rule may reduce compensation if you share fault.
• Insurance company tactics: Adjusters may delay payment, deny liability, or offer quick settlements that do not reflect your full damages.
• Medical documentation: Consistent treatment records and adherence to your doctor’s instructions strengthen your claim.
• Recovery timeline: Waiting until your injuries stabilize allows future medical needs to be included in your claim.

These factors can either strengthen or weaken your case. McPartland Law Offices can evaluate these issues and work to build the strongest claim possible on your behalf.

Understanding Comparative Negligence in Washington

Washington follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means that even if you are partly responsible for an accident, you may still recover compensation. The amount is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.

For example, if you are found 20% at fault for an accident and your damages total $100,000, you could recover $80,000.

This rule allows injured people to pursue compensation even when they share some responsibility. McPartland Law Offices can review how comparative negligence may affect your claim and guide you through your options.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim?

In Washington, personal injury claims must generally be filed within 3 years of the date of the injury, according to the statute of limitations outlined in RCW 4.16.080(2). Missing this deadline usually means losing the ability to pursue compensation.

Some exceptions may extend or adjust the filing period:

• Minors: If the injured person is under 18, the 3-year period typically begins once they reach adulthood.
• Discovery rule: In certain cases, the time limit may start when the injury is discovered rather than on the accident date.
• Wrongful death: Claims under RCW 4.20.010 and RCW 4.20.020 follow additional requirements.

Because these rules can be complex, contacting McPartland Law Offices soon after an accident allows our team to review your case and help ensure deadlines are met.

The Personal Injury Claim Process in Spokane

Filing a personal injury claim usually involves several stages. Understanding the process can help you prepare for what lies ahead:

• Initial consultation: You meet with a personal injury attorney to discuss your case. At McPartland Law Offices, this consultation is free and gives you the chance to learn about your rights and options.
• Investigation and evidence gathering: Your lawyer collects medical records, accident reports, photos, and witness statements. Expert input may also be used to strengthen your claim.
• Filing the claim and notifying insurers: A formal claim is submitted and the insurance company is notified.
• Negotiation: Your lawyer works with the insurance company to seek a settlement.
• Filing a lawsuit. If settlement talks do not resolve the case, a lawsuit is filed in Spokane courts.
• Discovery and mediation. Both sides exchange information, take depositions, and may attempt mediation before trial.
• Trial. If mediation is unsuccessful, the case proceeds to trial where a judge or jury makes the decision.

How Long Will My Personal Injury Case Take?

The length of a personal injury case in Spokane can vary. Some claims settle in a few months, while others may take a year or more, especially if a trial becomes necessary. The timeline depends on several factors, such as:

• The severity of your injuries.
• Disputes over liability.
• Cooperation from the insurance company.
• The complexity of the case.
• Court scheduling.

Although no lawyer can predict the exact length of a case, working with McPartland Law Offices helps keep deadlines on track and negotiations moving forward.

Do All Personal Injury Cases Go to Trial?

Not every personal injury case goes to trial. Many claims are resolved through settlement before reaching the courtroom. Still, being prepared for trial often strengthens negotiations. If the insurance company does not make a fair offer, McPartland Law Offices is ready to present your case in court.

Should I Accept a Quick Settlement From the Insurance Company?

After an accident, insurance companies sometimes offer a settlement quickly. While it may feel like relief in the moment, these early offers often overlook future medical needs, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and the long-term impact of your injury.

Once a settlement is accepted, it is usually final. That is why it helps to have a Spokane personal injury lawyer review any offer before you agree to it. McPartland Law Offices can assess whether the settlement reflects the full scope of your damages and, if necessary, negotiate for fair compensation on your behalf.

Schedule a Free Case Consultation With a Spokane Personal Injury Lawyer Today

After an accident, you should not have to deal with insurance companies or legal challenges alone. A Spokane personal injury lawyer can explain your options, protect your rights, and help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other impacts on your life.

McPartland Law Offices is here to listen, review your claim, and guide you through each step of the process. Your consultation is free, and if you retain us for legal representation, you will not pay legal fees unless compensation is recovered. Call 509-495-1247 or complete our online contact form to schedule your free case evaluation.