Legal Question in Personal Injury in Washington

can a insurance company close your claim without giving you a fair settlement???

I dont have an attorney and was rearended 4/2001. The insurance agent wanted to settle right away before I knew the extent of my injury's, I declined. I had a MRI and the findings were 3 ruptured disks in my cervical spine. Going to a neurosurgeon he suggested surgery. not being ready to undergo such surgery we opt for steriod injections. Finding out later this does not heal the cervical injury but only masks the pain. I know I need the surgery and getting closer in doing so. But can my time run out without getting the settlement I so deserve. Since my accident I tried to contact the That insurance agent to set up an appointment to see what kind of settlement he is willing to provide me for my everyday pain due to the injuries and surgery to come. I have not recieved any calls back from the Insurance company. I was told that they can let time run out without offering me any kind of settlement. Can they get away with this???


Asked on 12/30/02, 3:15 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Robert Kornfeld Robert B Kornfeld, Attorney at Law, Inc., P.S.

Re: can a insurance company close your claim without giving you a fair settlemen

I would be happy to discuss this further with you.

Generally speaking, in Washington, they can't close your claim. There is a three years statute of limitations in Washington. You must file suit within three years or it shall run and act as a time bar preventing you from recovering any money for your damages or injuries.

Don't let the insurance company try to pressure you. Don't let them try to squeeze you. I would recommend that you speak to a personally injury attorney to discuss your options. Typically there is no charge for the initial consultation and the cases are handled on a contingency fee basis which means you don't pay for attorneys fees until and when the attorney collects.

You have a good damage case and a significant injury for which you should seek the medical care now as needed. I also strongly suggest you consult counsel immediately and not directly contact or deal with the insurer. The insurer is in the business of paying you as little as possible. It's a business. The insurance company is not in the business of being fair. Consult an attorney as soon as possible.

If you would like to speak to me about it at no charge, feel free to call me at 1 800 282-4878 or contact me by email at [email protected].

My webb site is accidenthelpline.com or www.kornfeldlaw.com

The site will give you information about my background and experience. It will also answer many other questions for you.

Have a Happy and healthier New Year.

Rob Kornfeld

[email protected]

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Answered on 1/01/03, 6:11 pm


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