Q.	I can't believe the way I'm being treated. I've lost the ability to provide income for my family since my accident which wasn't even my fault and now my insurance company has denied my healthcare benefits. Do I have any options or recourse?
A.	Yes, you certainly do. When you retain the legal services of Trudell Bowen & Lingenbrink, PLLC Law Office you not only retain our exemplary reputation, you also retain our expertise in acting on a client's behalf when negotiating with insurance companies.
Q.	Okay, but what will it cost?
A.	First, The Law Office of Kornfeld, Trudell Bowen & Lingenbrink, PLLC does not charge up-front fees. And second, we represent you on a contingency basis which means we will be paid a percentage of the amount recovered.
Q.	How do I know if my case qualifies for legal representation?
A.	We invite you to schedule an appointment with us for a consultation at no charge. Only then can we begin to evaluate the merits of your case.
Q.	How are personal injury damages determined?
A.	Damages are determined by a number of factors including: Physical and mental pain and loss of enjoyment of life Economic hardship or financial loss Impairment of future earning capacity Physical impairment and/ or disfigurement
Q.	I'm intimidated by the possibility of going to court. Is a lawsuit the only way damages can be recovered?
A.	No. In fact the vast majority of all personal injury cases are settled before going to court through negotiation or mediation.
Q.	Why should I choose The Law Offices of Kornfeld, Trudell Bowen & Lingenbrink, PLLC to represent me?
A.	Because we are skilled personal injuries attorneys who will take the burden of dealing with insurance companies from you and prosecute your case to a successful completion.

What Are Your Rights?

As a general rule, if you (the Plaintiff) sustain personal injury or loss as a result of another person's (defendant's) negligent act, you are entitled to recover monetary compensation. Common examples of personal injury claims include auto accidents, products liability, and industrial accidents. If you choose to seek recovery, monetary compensation is available for wage loss, property damage, employment benefit loss, health care expenses, pain and loss of enjoyment of life, disfigurement, disability, and other types of losses.

Your ability to recover is based on factual and legal considerations. Key is whether the defendant has liability coverage for your injury. Your recovery is also dependent upon the defendant's ability to pay, either personally or through insurance; and/or through your own uninsured motorist or under-insured motorist coverage. In addition, if your own negligence contributed to the accident or loss, the court may assess you a percentage of fault which diminishes your recovery proportionately.

Do You Need an Attorney?

The law does not require you to hire an attorney to handle your personal injury claim. Nonetheless, the legal expertise and experience that a qualified personal injury attorney provides you will greatly increase your ability to obtain a prompt and fair settlement. Insurance and personal injury law are complex topics, and an attorney's expertise can prove to be invaluable when interpreting the law and your legal rights.

Why Consult an Attorney First?

Any information which you provide to an insurance company may be used against you. You are not required to make a statement to an insurance adjuster. It is advisable to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney before giving a statement to the insurance adjuster A qualified attorney knows how to present the facts to the insurance company and represent your best interest. Read your insurance policy and make a copy for your attorney. Even if you decide to handle your own case, a short conference with an experienced attorney can save you considerable trouble in the long run. If meeting with an attorney is impossible or inconvenient for you, be as reserved in your answers as possible. Be careful not to volunteer information unless asked. Be informed about the insurance benefits you have purchased.

What Are The Costs Involved?

Most law firms accept personal injury cases on a contingent fee basis. This means that the attorney is paid a percentage of the recovery received, and therefore is not paid until your case is finalized. If there is no recovery, there is no fee. The contingent fee is based on the attorney's time and services expended. In all cases, you pay the out-of-pocket expenses, such as filing fees, copies, transcripts, etc. Your attorney may advance costs for you, but you are obligated to pay costs at the time of settlement. It is very important to have a clear understanding of your attorney's fees and costs during your initial consultation.

Are There Alternatives to a Lawsuit?

Yes. As a general rule, most personal injury cases settle before going to trial through negotiation, mediation or arbitration.

What About Health Care?

You are free to choose any health care provider for treatment of your injury. Any competent health care provider, including a medical doctor, a chiropractor, a naturopathic physician, a physical therapist, etc. can assist you in your recovery. Some insurance companies discriminate against alternative care. For this reason, it is important to work with an attorney who understands all types of care and is experienced in resolving problems with insurance companies.

Kornfeld, Trudell, Bowen and Lingenbrink, PLLC
3724 Lake Washington Blvd NE, Kirkland, WA 98033 - View Map
Tel 1-866-637-1300 toll free or (425) 637-1300 ­ Fax (425) 637-1301