Spokane Personal Injury Attorneys Are Here to Help the Injured
Spokane, Washington sits on a near-ideal location along the Spokane River, within easy reach of the Selkirk Mountains. Visitors come from all over the world to enjoy Riverfront Park, Manito Park, and the Davenport Hotel, among many other attractions. There’s more to Spokane, however, than its admittedly spectacular tourist attractions.
Spokane is a growing metropolitan city with a fascinating history. Its transportation system is developing but still needs more work to be a practical solution for most commuters. The legal community in Spokane is focused on supporting the needs of businesses and citizens in this diverse city. The healthcare community offers residents a comprehensive support system encompassing all areas of medicine. The regional insurance industry provides Spokane’s residents with the insurance coverage they depend on in the event of an accident or injury.
The Spokane personal injury attorneys at Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner PLLC have vast experience handling personal injury and wrongful death cases that often begin on the busy roads and freeways of Spokane. We have found that the heavy traffic, a huge number of daily commuters, and seemingly constant road construction projects lead to a high number of vehicles on the roads, and a high incidence of accidents.
Our law firm offers legal help for people seriously injured in bicycle accidents, motorcycle crashes, pedestrian accidents, and others. A Spokane personal injury lawyer at our firm will oversee all aspects of your case from start to finish and manage all communications with insurance companies, attorneys, collections agencies, and anyone else involved. You can concentrate on healing while we focus on securing your financial future.
Most Common Types of Personal Injury Cases
Most personal injury claims fall into one of the following categories.:
Auto Vehicle Accidents:
Nationwide, police report between 5 and 6 million traffic crashes every year. These crashes result in millions of injuries and an enormous impact on families nationwide. Spokane experiences its share of preventable collisions on busy roads, including I-90, Division Street, and North Spokane Corridor. Most of these accidents were someone’s fault, and many of them were not the fault of the person who was injured.
Personal injury liability in Washington is determined by comparative fault. Comparative fault provides that insurance companies determine what percent of fault each driver holds. Therefore, a person receives compensatory relief reduced by the percentage of fault they contributed to the accident. It’s vital to establish the other driver’s fault and minimize any determination of your fault to secure the damages award you deserve. Unfortunately, one cannot do this without the help of experienced Spokane personal injury attorneys.
Medical Errors
According to recent research from Johns Hopkins, medical malpractice may be the third-leading cause of death in the United States. Medical malpractice cases can be scientifically complex, and the state of Washington requires the parties to attempt to mediate a dispute before taking it to court.
Common medical malpractice claims include misdiagnosis, failure to diagnose, surgical errors, medication errors, and birth injuries. Identifying medical malpractice requires an understanding of the duty of care a physician and healthcare facility owed you or a loved one. Retaining an attorney with a comprehensive understanding of Washington’s personal injury laws is crucial.
Wrongful Death
The victim of an injury caused by someone else’s misconduct can file a personal injury claim against the perpetrator. But what happens if the victim is killed in the accident (or dies afterward as a result of the accident)? At that point, the personal injury claim becomes a wrongful death claim, and it can be filed by certain close relatives of the victim and, in some cases, the personal representative of the victim’s probate estate. Washington personal injury laws provide a three-year statute of limitations for wrongful death cases. The earlier your investigation begins, the better your chances of obtaining strong evidence of negligence or wrongdoing. Furthermore, missing the statute of limitations for filing bars you from the opportunity to ever file your lawsuit again. A Spokane personal injury lawyer can help you meet deadlines and develop a strong case to hold the negligent party accountable.
Workplace Accidents
Statistically, the workplace is one of the most dangerous places a person can be – depending on your occupation, perhaps more dangerous than the roads. Common injuries occurring in workplace accidents include the following:
- Construction accidents,
- Occupational diseases,
- Repetitive stress injuries, and
- Manufacturing accidents.
The most important action after a workplace accident is to seek proper medical treatment and document your injuries. The workers’ compensation system is designed to compensate for workplace injuries, and in some cases, it is possible to claim against a third party outside of the workers’ compensation system. Your attorney explores all available options for filing a third-party personal injury claim. While limits exist for workers’ compensation, there is no limit to compensatory relief for a personal injury claim.
Premises Liability
The owners and operators of premises have a legal responsibility to ensure that those premises are reasonably safe for visitors. This is especially true when visitors have been invited onto the property, such as customers at a shopping mall. Owners and operators have a responsibility to either repair or warn of dangers that are obvious or discoverable by a reasonable inspection of the property. Common examples of premises liability cases include:
- Slip and fall injuries,
- Defective sidewalks,
- Unsafe stairwells,
- Dangerous escalators,
- Poor lighting,
- Unsafe elevators, and
- Unsafe parking garages or lots.
In addition to a claim against a property owner and manager, you may also pursue a claim against the manufacturers of defective products that contributed to your injuries. However, this area of law is particularly complex and requires an experienced attorney.
Product Liability
How many consumer products did you use last week? Odds are, you can’t even count them all. But shampoo, prescription medication, automobiles, hairdryers, etc., can all harm users if they are defective. Other common cases stem from injuries after using the following products:
- Medical products,
- Toys,
- Automobiles,
- Household appliances, and
- Playground equipment.
Product liability law allows you to claim against not only manufacturers but also wholesalers and retailers – all without having to prove negligence on the part of the defendant. In many cases, if you suffered injuries after using a product, the satisfaction of the following criteria permits you to sue for damages so long as:
- You used a product as intended,
- The product was not substantially altered from its original form, and
- You suffered harm.
Defects in products may occur for any number of reasons. A Spokane personal injury lawyer explores whether the manufacturer undertook the necessary safety testing or failed to warn users of instructions for proper use.
Other Personal Injury Accidents in Spokane, WA
Our Spokane personal injury lawyers have seen it all. We’re ready to represent any personal injury claim, no matter how big, small, or unusual it might seem. Our team has a tremendous record of results, including victories in medically complicated cases. Whatever you’re going through, we’d like to help.
Other types of personal injury cases include exposure to toxic substances, nursing negligence, boating, aviation accidents, and more. Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner PLLC is prepared to assist with:
- Railroad accidents,
- City transit accidents,
- Truck crash accidents,
- Wrongful death,
- Dog attack, and
- Much more.
No matter how your injury happened, you deserve clear answers and guidance you can trust. If you believe someone else’s negligence played a role, our team can review your situation and help you understand your legal options.
What Should You Do After an Accident in Spokane?
Right after an injury, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure what to do first. These early steps can protect your health and your legal rights:
- Get medical care—even if your pain feels minor, since many injuries appear hours or days later;
- Call law enforcement—so the incident is officially documented;
- Gather basic information—names, insurance details, and contact information for everyone involved;
- Take photos and video—of the scene, your injuries, and property damage; and
- Speak with a lawyer early—before talking with an insurance adjuster or accepting an offer.
These steps help protect your claim, but if you missed some of them, a lawyer can guide you through what to do next.
How Evidence Helps Establish Liability in a Personal Injury Claim
Strong evidence does more than show the extent of your injuries. It also helps prove liability, which is the foundation of any successful claim. Photos of the scene, witness statements, medical records, and details such as weather and road conditions all help show how the accident happened and who was responsible. Even small facts, such as the direction vehicles were traveling or where debris landed, can support your version of events.
Keeping receipts, documenting missed work, and saving damaged items also builds credibility. With clear, organized evidence, your attorney can prove fault more effectively and pursue fair compensation.
How to Handle Insurance Adjusters After an Accident
After an accident in Spokane, you may hear from one or more insurance adjusters within days or even hours. Their calls can feel friendly or urgent, but their primary goal is to gather information that reduces what the company pays. Understanding how to respond can protect your claim and prevent mistakes that affect your case later.
Here are key points to remember when an adjuster contacts you:
- Limit what you share. Stick to basic facts such as your name, contact information, and the date of the accident.
- Avoid giving recorded statements. Adjusters often use your words out of context to minimize your injuries or shift blame.
- Do not discuss pain levels. Some injuries worsen over time, and early comments may not reflect the full extent of your condition.
- Decline early settlement offers. These offers often come before you know the long-term impact of your injuries.
- Refer the adjuster to your attorney. This prevents the insurer from pressuring you or asking unfair questions.
These interactions matter because insurance companies track every detail you share. When your attorney handles these conversations, you avoid mistakes and protect your right to full compensation.
Common Injuries Sustained in Spokane Personal Injury Accidents
A serious accident can leave you with injuries that affect your work, mobility, sleep, and overall quality of life. Even injuries that seem small at first can become more painful or limiting over time.
Here are some of the most common injuries our clients face after accidents:
- Soft-tissue injuries—such as sprains, strains, and whiplash that can cause lingering pain and stiffness;
- Broken bones—including fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, hips, or hands that may require casts, surgery, or long recovery periods;
- Head and brain injuries—ranging from concussions to traumatic brain injuries that affect memory, focus, sleep, and mood;
- Back and spinal injuries—including herniated discs, nerve damage, and spinal cord trauma that disrupt mobility and daily activities;
- Internal injuries—such as organ damage or internal bleeding, which may not appear immediately but require urgent care; and
- Emotional and psychological injuries—including anxiety, fear, post-accident stress, or nightmares that disrupt daily life.
Each of these injuries can affect you physically, emotionally, and financially. It is essential to follow your doctor’s instructions, attend all scheduled appointments, and allow providers to document your symptoms and progress. Keeping careful records supports your recovery and strengthens your claim for compensation.
Understanding the Full Impact of an Injury on Your Life
When you think about a personal injury claim, you might focus only on the accident itself. However, the real impact often becomes apparent in various areas of your life over time. Understanding these effects helps you and your attorney build a stronger, more complete claim.
An injury can affect more than your physical health. Many people also experience disruptions in work, sleep, relationships, and daily routines. These challenges can happen even with injuries that seem “minor” at first. That is why a clear picture of your day-to-day limitations matters.
Here are some areas that are commonly impacted:
- Mobility. Injuries may make it difficult to drive, lift, walk, or perform routine tasks.
- Work and income. Some injuries limit your ability to do your job or require time away from work.
- Household responsibilities. Tasks like cleaning, childcare, or home maintenance may become harder.
- Recreation and hobbies. Activities you once enjoyed may be painful or impossible.
- Emotional well-being. Many people experience stress, anxiety, fear, or frustration after a traumatic event.
These effects matter because they show how deeply the injury has changed your life. With this understanding, your attorney can better communicate the true impact of your injuries and fight for fair compensation.
Local Spokane Resources That Can Help After an Accident
Spokane offers numerous helpful community programs that individuals often need during their recovery. These services support transportation, mental health, medical access, and financial challenges.
Spokane-area resources that can help after an injury include:
- Spokane Transit Authority (STA) paratransit—provides accessible, door-to-door rides for people unable to drive during recovery;
- Spokane Regional Health District—offers community health programs, behavioral health referrals, and injury-prevention services;
- Frontier Behavioral Health—provides mental health counseling and 24/7 crisis support for those dealing with trauma;
- Washington Crime Victims Compensation Program—may provide financial help for medical bills, lost wages, and counseling when the injury resulted from a crime;
- Free and low-cost clinics—such as CHAS Health, offering medical, dental, and behavioral health care for people facing financial hardship; and
- Community support organizations—local nonprofits, food banks, and volunteer groups that help with meals, transportation, and other needs during recovery.
These resources can be incredibly valuable alongside your legal and medical support.
How Do Personal Injury Attorneys in Spokane Guide You Through the Process?
Working with personal injury attorneys that Spokane victims rely on should simplify your life, not complicate it. Our role is to guide you through each step, enabling you to focus on your healing while we handle the legal aspects.
Here is what we do:
- Listen to your story;
- Explain your options in plain language;
- Handle paperwork and deadlines;
- Deal with the insurance company; and
- Prepare for trial when needed.
You stay in control of the major decisions, and we provide the guidance you need to move forward with clarity. We also help you understand what to expect at each stage, keep you updated on the progress of your case, and make sure you never feel lost or unheard. With a supportive legal team by your side, the process becomes far more manageable and far less overwhelming.
Our Spokane Personal Injury Lawyers Have Helped Accident Victims for 40 Years
Our legal team has spent the past four decades working with injured victims to resolve their claims and help them move forward with their lives after an accident. We know the types of accidents that happen in the region, the trouble spots on Spokane’s freeways and roads, and we know the insurance companies and their defense lawyers who work to pay as little as possible towards claims. If you have been injured and need information about your rights and options, contact us today by calling us directly or by completing our contact form.
We Achieve Exceptional Results
- Dean Brett (Retired) uses his 40+ years of experience to handle all types of injury claims in Spokane and across the State.
- Paula McCandlis uses her 20 years of legal expertise and vast courtroom experience to obtain top settlements and verdicts for her personal injury clients.
- David Brown possesses focused experience in both plaintiff and defense law, enabling him to negotiate effectively with insurance adjusters and secure full claim values.
- Matt Conner has devoted his entire career to helping his personal injury and wrongful death clients obtain the financial support they need to recover.
How We Have Helped Our Clients
Through the 40+ years that , our Spokane personal injury attorneys have been practicing personal injury and wrongful death law, they have handled hundreds of claims for clients in Spokane and across the state, including:
- $5.5 million for a seriously injured victim of a drunk driver;
- $450,000 for a woman who suffered a broken leg in a fall at a race track;
- Almost $450,000 for pedestrian’s multiple fractures; and
- $1 million for the wrongful death of a teenage pedestrian struck by a tow truck.
These results reflect the level of care, preparation, and determination we bring to every case. While no two claims are the same, our trusted personal injury lawyers will leverage their experience, resources, and proven track record to pursue the strongest possible results in every case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is the Washington “Family Car” Doctrine?
The family car doctrine allows an injured party to claim damages from one family member even though another family member was driving the car at the time of the accident. This rule applies if the non-driving family member bought or maintained the car (or another motor vehicle) on behalf of the driver who caused the accident. This might be useful if the driver was uninsured or underinsured.
How are future lost earnings calculated in the event of a long-term injury?
One of the most popular and objective means of proving physical impairment is the functional capacity evaluation (FCE), which is a medical test that measures the extent of the occupational disability that was caused by your injury. Both physical and mental capabilities may be tested.
What is the statute of limitations deadline in Washington state?
If you suffer a personal injury, you typically have up to three years from the date of your accident to either file a personal injury lawsuit or have a private settlement agreement signed by both you and the defendant. If you were to die from your injuries, however, your family and your estate executor would retain the ability to file a wrongful death lawsuit for three years after the date you died. Limited exceptions to these rules sometimes apply. It’s never recommended to rely on the potential exceptions to the statute of limitations filing period. These exceptions are rarely granted and apply only in particular situations.
Can I sue the company that a driver works for if the accident happened while the defendant was on duty?
You can sue the driver’s employer if the driver was an employee of the company (not an independent contractor) and if he was acting within the scope of his duties at the time of the accident. Ultimately, it is the court, not the company, that determines whether the driver was an employee or an independent contractor.
Is it necessary to go to court for a personal injury claim in Spokane?
In Spokane, it’s not always mandatory to take a personal injury claim to court. Often, your personal injury attorney can assist in negotiating a settlement with the responsible party or their insurance company. This approach can lead to a resolution without the need for a court trial. However, if negotiations don’t yield a satisfactory outcome, your attorney is prepared to represent you in court to seek the compensation you deserve for your injury. This flexibility allows for different approaches based on the specifics of your case and the willingness of the other party to reach an agreeable settlement.
What If I don’t file the personal injury claim in the given time?
If you fail to file a personal injury lawsuit within the designated timeframe in Washington, which is three years, the repercussions can be significant.
Should you miss this deadline, your legal right to pursue compensation for your accident-related losses may be forfeited. The party responsible for your injuries could file a motion to have your claim dismissed based on the statute of limitations being exceeded. As a result, you might find yourself unable to receive compensation for the damages you’ve suffered. This is why it’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, ensuring your claim is filed on time and that your injuries are adequately documented and proven, thereby avoiding the risk of your claim being invalidated due to a lapse in the statute of limitations.
What should I do if I’m injured by a non-resident of Spokane?
If you’re injured by someone who doesn’t reside in Spokane, pursuing compensation can be challenging. Small claims courts might be reluctant to handle cases involving out-of-state defendants, particularly if they argue against traveling for the trial.
In such situations, consulting with a Spokane injury lawyer is advisable. They can guide you through your options. When the responsible party is based out of state and unwilling to settle, your attorney can assist in negotiations and strive to secure compensation for your claim. Their expertise becomes crucial in navigating the complexities of inter-state legal proceedings and ensuring your rights are protected.
What If the Other Driver Was Uninsured?
You may still have options through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Your attorney can review your policy and explain what coverage applies. In many cases, this type of coverage can help pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other losses even when the at-fault driver has no insurance at all.
How Long Will My Spokane Personal Injury Case Take?
Every case is different. Some settle within a few months, while others take longer if injuries are severe or the insurance company disputes fault. Your attorney can give you a timeline based on the facts of your case.
What If I Cannot Afford Medical Treatment Right Away?
Many injured individuals worry about the costs of medical care. In some cases, providers may offer treatment options that can be billed later. Your attorney can also help you explore coverage options, including PIP insurance and programs available through the State of Washington.
What Personal Injury Damages Can I Recover?
Washington permits injured victims to recover compensatory damages in the form of economic and noneconomic. These damages include the following:
- Medical expenses,
- Property damage,
- Loss of income,
- Loss of future earnings,
- Pain and suffering,
- Emotional distress,
- Loss of consortium, and
- Disfigurement.
Washington does not allow punitive damages in most personal injury cases. Unlike some other states, Washington law typically focuses on compensating the victim of an injury, not punishing the wrongdoer.
Speak with a Proven Spokane Personal Injury Lawyer at Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner Today
Spokane is a city with humble, small-town beginnings but has blossomed into the second-largest city in the State, the largest city between Seattle and Minneapolis, with strong manufacturing, high-tech, health sciences, and medical technology industries. This creates an interesting combination of affluence, growth – and traffic.
When an accident, injury, or wrongful death happens, it is important to work with an experienced Spokane personal injury attorney that knows the regional insurance companies and how they handle claims, and most of all, that knows how to obtain a full settlement for their clients.
Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner brings more than four decades of experience helping injured people across Washington, including hundreds of clients in Spokane. Our attorneys come from diverse backgrounds of former judges, blue-collar workers, advocates, and leaders in the Washington State Association for Justice. This breadth of experience helps us understand what families go through after a serious injury.
Reach out to Paula, Dave, Matt, and Dean (Retired) if you are struggling with the aftermath of an accident and need some support and advice. They know what you are dealing with now, and they know what you will need to deal with in the future. You will know what to expect, you will know what your rights and options are, and you will not have to deal with insurance companies alone. When you hire our team, you get compassionate guidance, proven results, and a firm that genuinely cares about helping you rebuild your life.
If you are dealing with injuries after being in a car, truck, bike, motorcycle, or pedestrian accident, Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner PLLC is the law firm that will help you through this. Find out how our Spokane personal injury lawyers can help you move forward with your life after an accident or injury.
Talk to our legal team immediately by calling us directly, or completing our convenient contact form. We will get back to you immediately.
Our office in Spokane, WA
- Address: 1312 N Monroe St f179, Spokane, WA 99201
- Open hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm
- Phone number: 509-228-8790
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