Personal Injury Attorney Washington DC

Professional Representation After an Injury

If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, it may be in your best interest to speak to our Washington DC personal injury lawyer. Your injuries have likely affected your life in several ways, and you deserve justice. An experienced member of our team can help you obtain compensation for your injuries after nearly 25 years of practicing in personal injury

There are countless ways people find themselves with an injury. Some are caused by car accidents. Others by slip and falls, or even medical malpractice. Regardless of the cause of your injury, you deserve to get better. And since you didn’t cause your injuries, you shouldn’t be responsible for the costs to get better. Contact The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. today to schedule your consultation.

Understanding Your Personal Injury Case

A personal injury case arises when one person fails to exercise reasonable care toward another person, and that breach of duty results in injuries. For example, if you were in a car accident in which the other driver was speeding or talking on a cell phone, you may have a right to sue that person for the damages that you suffered. Other types of personal injury cases involve slip and fall incidents, medical malpractice, and dog bites.

Steps to Take After Your Injury

After you’re injured, what happens next can help determine how much you can recover. 

• Call 911. Even if you don’t think your injuries are severe, it’s a smart decision to make sure you are healthy. Besides that, being seen by medical personnel immediately after your accident can help make sure your injuries are documented.
• Take pictures. As long as it’s safe to do so, taking pictures can help make sure your personal injury lawyer has a full image of your accident. Make sure to take pictures of the accident scene but also take pictures of your injuries.
• Don’t speak to an insurance company. Insurance companies are in the business of making money. They do that by not paying out claims. If you speak with them and don’t first speak to a seasoned personal injury lawyer, you might say something that gives the insurance company a reason to deny your claim.

Contact our firm today. As your law office, we can aggressively fight to make sure you get the compensation you deserve so you can make a complete recovery.

Common Causes of Injuries

Injuries can be the result of many different causes. These include car accidents, scooter accidents, slip and fall accidents, medical malpractice, construction accidents, and more.

This list is not exhaustive. There are countless causes for your injuries. And if you’ve been injured, you could be facing serious medical bills and a long recovery. To help you get better and to help make sure you don’t pay out of pocket for your expenses, you need to speak with a skilled member of our team today.

Key Evidence in Your Case

To increase your chances of winning your personal injury lawsuit, you must provide your personal injury lawyer with sufficient evidence. Here are the types of evidence that may help your lawyer at The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. win your case:

• Police Report. If you suffered an injury during a car accident, it’s important to obtain a copy of the police report. This report may contain important details about the accident, such as who was at fault.
• Physical Evidence. Physical evidence can play a big part in proving that your injuries resulted from another person’s negligence. For example, if you were involved in a car accident, a dent in your car can show where it was hit. If there is blood on your clothes, it may show that the injuries you suffered are serious.
• Photos. Clear photos can also prove that the accident did take place and caused your injuries. For instance, if you slipped and fell on ice in front of someone else’s property, take photos of the sidewalk to show that the owner of the property didn’t put salt on the ice.

Damages You Might Be Eligible For

No matter the cause of your injuries, you deserve to have compensation to help you make a full recovery. When you work with our team, we can actively fight to get you compensation for losses such as medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more.

When you’re injured through no fault of your own, your last worry should be how you’re going to pay your bills. Your only worry should be getting better. You do that by making sure you get the compensation you deserve to get better.

Negotiating With the Insurance Company

The aftermath of a car accident can be devastating. Between medical visits, auto shop visits and trying to piece your life back together, the last thing that you want to do is think about talking to insurance companies. Unfortunately, discussing your claim with the insurance company is a necessity. If the other driver was at fault, then your compensation will come from the insurance company. If you have never negotiated with an insurance company before, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure how to handle it. Here are our four tips for handling negotiations.

Initiate the Claim

Once you’re able to take a breath and return home after an accident, you should call your insurance company right away. You want to initiate the claim as quickly as possible. The quicker you contact, the more likely you will have vivid details for the company and the more accurate your settlement will be.

When you initiate the claim, make sure that you have all of the records for the accident. For example, you need to hang onto all medical records, auto shop bills and police reports. These documents are going to be critical in negotiation.

Do Not Accept the Offer

If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, be careful what you say. If you say too much, the agent may try to use your words against your case. You do not want to apologize or take any blame for it. If the insurer comes up with a number before hiring a lawyer, you shouldn’t accept the deal right away. Instead, meet with a lawyer and discuss the settlement option.

Submit a Counteroffer

You do not have to accept the first offer. You can offer a counteroffer to the insurance company. Your lawyer will calculate a fair settlement based on your bills, pain and suffering, and how the accident affected your life. If he or she suggests that you submit a counteroffer, follow his or her direction on the price to ask for. If the insurance company doesn’t accept it, he or she may send another offer or you will have to take the case to court.

Washington Personal Injury Laws

• • Navigating The Legal Landscape In The Capital

  When an unforeseen injury strikes in the bustling streets of the nation’s capital, understanding the legal intricacies that govern personal injury claims becomes paramount. Our  DC personal injury lawyer becomes your torchbearer, illuminating the path through complex legislation and advocating for your rightful compensation.

  • Understanding Contributory Negligence

  Washington DC adopts a rather stringent approach towards personal injury claims through its adherence to the contributory negligence rule. In this jurisdiction, if an injured party is found to bear any percentage of fault for the incident, they are, unfortunately, barred from recovering damages. This exacting standard underscores the necessity of securing a skilled and meticulous injury lawyer, ensuring every aspect of your case is finely combed to validate the absence of your fault in the accident.

  • Statute Of Limitations – A Crucial Timer

  Time is of the essence in personal injury claims in Washington DC, with the statute of limitations playing a pivotal role in the viability of your case. In general, an individual has a constrained window of two years from the date of the injury to initiate a lawsuit. Exceptions and intricacies within this timeframe, such as the discovery rule or instances involving government entities, mandate a nuanced understanding of the laws to prevent inadvertent forfeiture of your right to seek redress.

  • Wrongful Death And Survival Actions

  In the unfortunate event of a fatal incident, Washington DC law permits the estate of the deceased to pursue two distinct claims: wrongful death and survival actions. While a wrongful death claim seeks to compensate family members for their loss, a survival action allows the estate to recover damages the deceased could have sought if they had survived.

  • Protecting The Rights Of Minors

  When minors become embroiled in personal injury cases, their rights and means to seek compensation are safeguarded by distinct provisions within DC laws. Generally, minors have the right to pursue a personal injury claim within three years after attaining the age of majority. These cases, often ensnared with emotional and legal complexities, emphasize the importance of a lawyer who can concurrently safeguard the minor’s rights and navigate the legal milieu with compassion and expertise.

Washington Personal Injury Infographic

Washington Personal Injury Statistics

According to the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, there were 40 traffic fatalities in Washington D.C. in 2021. This is more than any previous year back through 2014 and up 8% from 2020. As tough as it can be to think about, if you or a loved one have been involved in an accident, it’s wise to discuss your case with an attorney.

Washington Personal Injury FAQs

When Should I File a Personal Injury Lawsuit?

When you’re injured in an accident, you might consider filing a lawsuit against the individual who caused your injury and you’ll want to consult a personal injury lawyer before doing so. While this is often a great way to get compensation, you have to get moving on the process as soon as you can. Each state has a statute of limitations that outlines the amount of time someone has to file a lawsuit. If you miss the deadline, you could forfeit your right to compensation. 

What Is the Personal Injury Statute of Limitations?

The statute of limitations is regulated by the state, so your time limit will depend on the state in which you live. Keep in mind that some states are drastically different, so you don’t want to be clueless. For example, residents of New Hampshire have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit. If someone living in New Hampshire confused the statute of limitations with the six-year statute in neighboring Maine, that individual could lose out on compensation. It’s especially important to gather all evidence, paperwork, and other documents that need processing as soon as possible. While the statute of limitations may seem like a long time, time can quickly move by.

Can I Get the Statute of Limitations Extended?

There are some courts that will extend the statute of limitations for certain situations, but it is rare and limited. For example, if your accident results in an injury that puts you in a coma, you won’t have the capacity to file a lawsuit. When you wake up from your coma and a doctor determines you are competent, the statute of limitations would probably begin. If you have questions about these specific exceptions or situations, you can talk to one of our personal injury lawyers at Brynn Law for more details.

Should I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?

While some people choose to handle their personal injury cases without a lawyer, it may not be recommended. Getting into any kind of accident can be life-changing. Even if you can heal after your accident, you may still be stuck with hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical bills. On the other hand, you might be completely unable to heal physically from your personal injury accident and this can result in an inability to work your regular job or an inability to take care of your family.

When this is the case, people often wonder if it is best to hire a lawyer or if they should go ahead and file a claim on their own. Here are a few benefits of hiring our law firm instead: 

• A Lawyer Knows How Much Your Claim Is Worth. A lawyer can determine the approximate value of your personal injury claim and may help you obtain a higher settlement amount.
• A Lawyer Understands the Legal Process. The legal procedures involved in filing a lawsuit can get complicated. An experienced lawyer knows the ins and outs of the legal process, including which documents have to be filed, and the statutes of limitations for your claim. A lawyer can advocate for you and this can save you a great deal of time.
• A Lawyer Is Motivated to Help You Win. Most lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means he or she only gets paid if you win your case. This may motivate your lawyer to fight hard to get you the highest settlement possible.
• A Lawyer Negotiates with Insurance Adjusters. Personal injury claims can, at the least, be a headache. The phrase “anything you say can and will be used against you” also applies here, and if you say you are fine after an accident or your injury is not so bad, an insurance adjuster can use this against you. A lawyer for personal injury in Washington can speak to an adjuster and negotiate on your behalf, likely resulting in standing on firmer ground and knowing if an insurance adjuster offers you a fair settlement.
• A Lawyer Knows Other Professionals. Especially with personal injury cases, you may need the help of other professionals to determine if your settlement is fair or to further strengthen your case. Many law firms can get the help needed from other professionals to build you a proper claim.
• A Lawyer Knows Settlements Don’t Always Work. You may have high hopes that your settlement will be accepted, but insurance adjusters are never out to give you everything you have asked for. When this is the case, a lawyer can steer you in the right direction of an alternative resolution, such as mediation or arbitration.
• A Lawyer Brings Objectivity To the Table. Working on a personal injury claim for yourself only adds more stress in a time where you are likely in pain and perhaps still angry after an accident. A lawyer can ensure all decisions you make for your claim are rational and the best options for your situation.
• A Lawyer Will Fight For You At Trial. Unfortunately, if you do not see eye-to-eye with the insurance company on a settlement offer and further methods of resolution have not worked, one of our lawyers can represent you in court. This can give you the best possible option when facing the defendant, a jury, and a judge.

How Do Doctors Treat Spinal Cord Injuries and Brain Injuries?

After a personal injury, it makes sense to have a doctor look you over. The harm suffered and treatment administered affect a personal injury case. Either a physician or a personal injury lawyer could suspect you display symptoms of a brain or spinal cord injury.

What Affects Compensation In Injury Cases?

Your Washington DC personal injury lawyer can help you secure the compensation you deserve. Your legal team can also explain what affects the amount of compensation you receive in the first place. At The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., we’ve recovered over $25,000,000 for our clients, and we’re happy to help with cases ranging from criminal defense to personal injury. Read on to see what affects your payout, and contact us today to get started on your case.

1. Severity Of The Injuries

The extent and severity of the injuries sustained in the accident play a significant role in determining compensation. More severe injuries generally lead to higher medical costs, potentially long-term treatment, and extended periods off work, all of which contribute to a higher compensation amount.

2. Medical Expenses

All medical expenses related to the injury are considered. This includes emergency room visits, hospital care, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and any future medical treatments required. The more extensive and costly your medical care, the higher the likely compensation.

3. Lost Wages And Earning Capacity

If your injuries have caused you to miss work, or if they affect your ability to work in the future, this loss of income will be considered in the compensation. Compensation can include both current lost wages and future lost earnings, especially if your injuries lead to permanent disability.

4. Pain And Suffering

Compensation often includes an amount for pain and suffering, which refers to the physical and emotional stress caused by the injuries. This is subjective but is typically linked to the severity of the injuries and the impact on your daily life.

5. Liability

Establishing who is at fault plays a critical role in compensation. In cases where liability is clear, the compensation amount may be higher. Conversely, if there is shared fault, it may reduce the compensation due to comparative negligence laws.

6. Insurance Coverage

The amount of insurance coverage available can also affect compensation. If the at-fault party has substantial insurance coverage, there may be a higher potential for receiving full compensation. However, limited coverage could restrict the amount, regardless of the severity of your injuries.

7. Impact On Lifestyle

Compensation may also consider how the injuries affect your lifestyle, including limitations on your hobbies, daily activities, and overall quality of life. Significant lifestyle changes due to injuries often lead to higher compensation.

8. Legal Representation

Having skilled legal representation can significantly influence the compensation received. Your Washington DC personal injury attorney will understand how to effectively negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, present a strong case in court.

9. Evidence Presented

The amount and quality of evidence provided to support the claim can affect compensation. Thorough documentation of the accident, injuries, and financial losses are essential. Strong evidence can lead to better outcomes in compensation negotiations or trials.

We Can Help. Get In Touch Today

If you’ve been injured in an accident, understanding these factors can provide a clearer picture of what to expect from your compensation claim. At The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., we are committed to helping our clients understand their rights and the factors that affect their claims. Get in touch with our team today, and see how a Washington DC personal injury lawyer from our office can help.

The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., Washington Personal Injury Lawyer

922 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Suite 100, Washington, DC 20003

Contact Our Washington Personal Injury Lawyer Today

We can meet with you as often as necessary to help you feel comfortable with the process ahead. We’ll investigate, speak with witnesses, review medical records, and negotiate with insurance companies. We do all of this at no cost to you. We only get paid if you win and we only take cases we plan on winning.

Personal injury claims can become complicated quickly. Don’t attempt to take on this case without the help of a qualified team, like ours with over 75 years of combined experience. If you are still looking for a personal injury lawyer, then contact The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. to see how our DC personal injury lawyer can help you.

Client Review

“Mr Brynn did a good job but i was told my case would stay open because a bill was paid out of my settlement that shouldnt have been paid. But he did such a good job that once again I’m using his services”
Sharon Douglas