FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS

No — Washington law does not require you to hire an attorney to pursue a personal injury claim. However, insurance companies have experienced adjusters and lawyers working to minimize what they pay, and an experienced firm can level that playing field.The answers to the questions below illustrate many of the ways an attorney adds value: documenting wage loss, recovering property damage, managing medical billing, and evaluating settlement offers. Church, Page & Gailan PLLC offers free consultations if you'd like to discuss whether representation makes sense for your case.

If you carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage on your own auto policy, you can typically receive income replacement through your own insurance company while your claim is pending.The at-fault party is ultimately responsible for your wage loss, but they won't pay until the claim is resolved, and PIP benefits must be reimbursed at the end of the case. We help obtain and provide the documentation needed so you are compensated for your lost wages.

Church, Page & Gailan PLLC uses a contingent fee: you pay no attorney fee unless we win your case, and when we win, the fee is one-third (1/3) of the amount recovered.

Vehicle repairs are usually completed quickly once the at-fault insurance company accepts liability — the delay is typically in getting liability accepted, not in the repair itself.Unfortunately, insurers sometimes take a while to accept liability. Having an experienced attorney on your side can often help speed up this process.

The at-fault driver's insurance must also pay for personal property damaged in the accident — including glasses, phones, laptops, tools, and groceries.Important: if a car seat was in your vehicle during the collision, it should be replaced immediately. With proper documentation, we help make sure you're compensated for all damaged personal property.

See a medical provider for your injuries as soon as possible after the accident, and follow the treatment plan they establish.Prompt, consistent treatment helps you recover faster and strengthens your case. Many chiropractors and physical therapists will hold your bills until settlement if you're represented by an attorney they know and trust.

Your medical provider determines when treatment is complete — this is a medical decision, not a legal one.Communicate openly and honestly with your doctor about your symptoms. If you don't tell your doctor what you're feeling, they can't provide appropriate care or determine the right treatment plan.

A case's value is determined by evaluating your medical bills and records, wage loss, property damage, accident photos, and liability — no reliable figure can be given without reviewing those specifics.We're happy to discuss the details of your case in a free consultation. If you retain Church, Page & Gailan PLLC, we will fight to recover full value for the injuries you've suffered.

You do. The decision to accept a settlement or continue to litigation always belongs to the client.If you retain us, we'll advise you on whether the insurance company's offer is fair and explain your litigation options if it isn't. Ultimately, the decision is yours.