Lee & Lee, PS – Attorneys at Law Contact | Lee & Lee, PS | Seattle, Washington 2025-03-31T12:31:59Z https://www.leeandleelaw.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1300731/2020/06/cropped-site-icon-512x512-1-32x32.png On Behalf of Lee & Lee, PS <![CDATA[Avoid making these 4 common mistakes after a car accident]]> https://www.leeandleelaw.com/?p=47992 2020-09-01T17:43:38Z 2020-09-01T17:43:38Z Leaving the police out of it Whether you’re afraid of getting into trouble or you just don’t want to cause any more of a scene, not calling the police can actually make the situation more difficult for you. When you notify the police of your accident, they will collect the details of your crash from a third-party point of view, which might later give you evidence you need to support your claim. Police officers can also help move vehicles out of the road, call for medical service and issue a traffic ticket to the other driver if necessary. Saying “I’m sorry” Washington is not a no-fault state, which means that whoever is found to be at fault for the accident will be responsible for compensating the other driver. Saying “I’m sorry” at the scene of an accident can be seen as an admission of guilt by some. So, even if you did not cause the accident, apologizing for the crash might serve as evidence against you. Forgetting to collect evidence Car accidents can be overwhelming. But if your injuries don’t demand immediate medical attention, it’s crucial that you retain enough focus to start collecting evidence at the scene of your crash. This includes taking photographs of the damages and the surrounding area and asking for eyewitness testimonies. It’s also important to continue this collection after the accident as well. You can access a copy of the police report, and don’t forget to save copies of any medical bills or other accident-related expenses. Refusing medical attention Some car accident injuries have delayed symptoms and take hours — even days — to show up. If you don’t seek medical attention as soon as possible, it can be harder to prove that any delayed injury was a direct result of your accident. You may have a harder time seeking compensation for any medical costs if you don’t see a doctor right after the crash. A car accident can be life-changing Making even one simple mistake after an accident can have a significant impact on your ability to recover damages. By being attentive and thorough, you can build a strong claim and pursue the compensation you need to protect yourself and your future.]]> On Behalf of Lee & Lee, PS <![CDATA[Breathalyzer results are often inaccurate]]> https://www.leeandleelaw.com/?p=47959 2020-07-30T13:02:31Z 2020-07-30T13:02:31Z have been raised across the country. Errors within the devices themselves, and how officers use them, could be putting people into the criminal justice system for a crime they did not commit.

The issues with breathalyzer accuracy

There are two main problems with breathalyzers that defense attorneys have identified. The first is with the software contained in the machines. Manufacturers are very secretive about the code they programmed their breath test machines with. But researchers who have had the chance to examine the code for some manufacturers have criticized what they say are errors that could cause rounded up results. The difference between blowing a .07 and a .08 could be a conviction for DUI. Human error is the other issue. Breath test machines, both the handheld roadside testers and the larger ones kept at police stations, generally require regular calibration and maintenance. But police officers often fail to recalibrate properly between test subjects, leading to inaccurate readings. Last year, judges in New Jersey and Massachusetts were forced to throw out breathalyzer results in tens of thousands of DUI cases after defense attorneys raised these concerns.

DUI charges, breath tests, and your rights

Despite these questions about breathalyzers, as a driver, if you decline to submit to one in Washington, you will be arrested. You will also have your driver's license suspended. If you have been arrested for DUI in the Seattle area, your breathalyzer test results do not automatically mean you will go to jail. Talk with a defense attorney about possibly keeping your freedom and getting your license back as soon as possible.]]> On Behalf of Lee & Lee, PS <![CDATA[Nearly 10% of certain diseases are misdiagnosed]]> https://www.leeandleelaw.com/?p=47691 2020-07-30T13:05:38Z 2020-05-10T13:03:55Z 1 in 10 patients were the victims of a diagnostic error. The error was either a misdiagnosis, a delayed diagnosis or a delay in the communication of that diagnosis. The error rate varied, with myocardial infarctions being misdiagnosed in 2.2% of patients but spinal abscesses being misdiagnosed in 62.1% of patients. An aggregate mean of 5.2% of patients suffered serious harm as a result of the error. Again, individual rates varied with MI-related diagnostic errors severely harming 1.2% and errors concerned with spinal abscesses harming 35.6%. Also, many delayed diagnoses resulted from a misdiagnosis. This was the case for almost 25% of the lung cancer patients. Under medical malpractice law, victims of a diagnostic error may be entitled to compensation. What victims must do is show that the error was caused because their doctor failed to live up to objective standards of medical care. They must also show that there was a preexisting doctor-patient relationship and that they followed all their doctors' instructions. Malpractice claims can be hard to pursue, so victims may wish to retain legal counsel before moving forward.]]> On Behalf of Lee & Lee, PS <![CDATA[Is it important to get medical attention after a car accident?]]> https://www.leeandleelaw.com/?p=47581 2020-07-30T13:07:11Z 2020-05-01T13:06:58Z I don’t appear to be hurt At most, you may have a couple of seconds to brace for an impact. The accident will still come as a surprise and a shock to the system. The body’s flight or fight response will cause your adrenaline levels to spike, effectively hiding the pain of injuries. You should always see a doctor as soon as possible to diagnose any injuries you may not be aware of at the time.

Injuries to the head can be life-threatening

Some of the most serious injuries are the ones you can’t see. Traumatic brain injuries and concussions can have lasting, sometimes life-changing effects. A brain bleed or a desire to “sleep off” a concussion may even be fatal. You should always have a doctor check for signs of a head injury following a car crash. Caught in time, you may be able to address any issues before they threaten your life.

My accident was weeks ago. Is there any point in seeing a doctor?

Yes. It is never too late to see a doctor after an accident. Injuries to the back and neck and soft-tissue injuries may only reveal themselves over a lengthy period. Getting a diagnosis now can help give you more options for treatment and help you determine the true cost of your car accident.]]> On Behalf of Lee & Lee, PS <![CDATA[Important questions to ask after a slip and fall accident]]> https://www.leeandleelaw.com/?p=47985 2020-08-05T20:29:11Z 2019-11-06T21:27:49Z How is fault determined? When it comes to determining fault in a premise liability case, the State of Washington relies on comparative negligence. Comparative negligence is where the plaintiff or person injured and filing the lawsuit have some fault in their injury. It could mean that both the property owner and the plaintiff are at fault for the incident. For example, the property owner did not put up signage, but the danger was obvious and partly occurred due to the plaintiff's negligence. Based on this rule, the compensation amount awarded will reduce for the plaintiff to the percentage of fault they carry. Are documents needed? To receive compensation, you must provide enough evidence to show that the property owner did not take the right safety measures. Your lawyer will help you get all the documents together and request the necessary receipts for work done to ensure safety. Collecting evidence, reporting the incident to the property owner, taking pictures of your injuries and the unsafe scene and keeping records for hospital visits, will help build your case. Statute of Limitations According to the Revised Code of Washington section 4.16.080, those injured on someone else's property, have up to three years after the incident to file a claim. It's vital to start a case early to avoid dismissal. Understanding the factors behind slip and fall injury cases could help you and your attorney decide whether you want to file a personal injury claim or an insurance claim to receive the compensation you deserve.]]> On Behalf of Lee & Lee, PS <![CDATA[How drinking and driving harms your lifestyle]]> https://www.leeandleelaw.com/?p=47983 2020-08-05T20:21:59Z 2019-09-11T20:21:15Z Long-term consequences The consequences of DUIs are extensive, costly and inconvenient. It’s best to be aware of the effects that follow drinking and driving charges before deciding to get behind the wheel. Fines/ Jail time: if a cop stops you and suspects that you’ve been drinking, they could subject you to both a field sobriety and a breathalyzer test. If your alcohol level is above the legal limit, the police officer will take you off the road and to the station for booking. You will stay in jail until you pay your bail/ bond. License suspension/ revocation: if found guilty, your license will be revoked or suspended, depending on factors such as how much over the legal limit you were and how fast you were going, among others. Work/ school: most schools and workplaces require their prospective applicants to take background checks. This could be a deterrent from college admission or hiring for a job, especially if the position involves driving. Personal and professional relationships: having a DUI puts a strain on a person’s relationships with their friends, family and coworkers. Family and friends might try to monitor your activities and drinking habits as their way of caring for you. Still, after a while, you might find their behaviors invasive, irritating and judgmental. Financial instability: DUIs come with a price that includes costs for new transportation, court fines, the entire cost for an ignition interlock system installation, increase in auto insurance rates, among other things. Community service/ education programs: if charged, alternative sentencing terms will most likely include doing community service or attending educational classes on the dangers of drunk driving. While these activities are helpful in re-connecting someone back with their community, they could be inconvenient at times since you’d have to limit your activities to comply with the sentencing given. Probation: other forms of sentencing includes probation where your probation officer monitors your progress and keeps tabs on your activities, whereabouts and whether you’re attending the programs required by your sentencing. It’s also important to keep in mind that a DUI charge stays on your record forever in the state of Washington. The first seven years are the most impactful as they can hinder both your personal and professional life.]]> On Behalf of Lee & Lee, PS <![CDATA[Steps for pedestrians to take after an accident]]> https://www.leeandleelaw.com/?p=47981 2020-08-05T20:17:21Z 2019-06-17T20:16:29Z Getting medical help Whether the injuries were severe enough to call an ambulance or seemed minor, it is imperative to have a medical doctor examine your body for wounds. The main reason for this is because most injuries don’t show up until months after an accident. It’s also vital to get accurate documentation. Without documentation, filing a claim could get tricky. Calling the authorities If your injuries weren’t severe enough to call 911 for an ambulance, it is still crucial to contact the local police station to get a report filed right away. Most districts will not let you make a statement after a certain amount of time has passed. By submitting a report immediately, you get documentation to hold the driver responsible. Getting the police involved and keeping the driver at the scene could help to reduce blame, misunderstandings and serve in your best interests in the long run. Filing a personal injury claim After your medical examination, it is vital to assess the financial costs your injuries have accrued. After talking with your personal injury lawyer, you would need to decide if you want to pursue a claim against the reckless driver’s insurance company. If you do choose to file a claim, having all your documentation in place is critical. Accidents caused by reckless drivers can bring stress into someone’s life. Knowing which areas accidents are more likely to happen could help pedestrians to reduce their chances of being injured. Pedestrians are more at risk when crossing the street, walking in areas with no traffic controls and walking near roads with speeds higher than 30 mph. Although frustrating and scary, injured pedestrians should try their best to stay calm and follow all the steps correctly to ensure they receive the maximum amount of compensation they deserve.]]> On Behalf of Lee & Lee, PS <![CDATA[Tips to avoid accidents while commuting]]> https://www.leeandleelaw.com/?p=47979 2020-08-05T20:13:21Z 2019-05-22T20:12:24Z Merging With packed roads and everyone trying to get to their destinations quickly, the room for negligence widens. If you’re in a lane where mergers exit into, you need to be cautious and let them pass or speed up so they can merge behind you. While it seems like merging falls into place, sometimes drivers could be coming at full speed, which could side sweep your vehicle. Tailgating It’s easy to fall into the habit of unknowingly tailgating other drivers, but keeping a safe distance behind could save drivers from having to slam their brakes or bumping into another vehicle. According to Washington’s driving laws, tailgating can be grounds for fines. On the other hand, if someone is tailgating you and constantly swerving to the side to see if there’s a vehicle in front of you, it’s best to switch lanes. Distractions Whether long or short, sitting in the car in traffic can get dull quickly. While turning on the radio or listening to an audiobook or podcast help pass the time, they can easily count as distractions. Cognitively taking your mind off the road can be just as dangerous as looking away or taking your hands off the steering wheel. Commuting is not everyone’s favorite activity, but taking safety precautions could help to avoid unnecessary spending or time off work. Injured drivers need to seek help as accidents still occur due to another person’s negligence on the road. It’s also important for Washington residents to document accidents accurately and to file a personal injury claim within three years.]]> On Behalf of Lee & Lee, PS <![CDATA[How to tell if your doctor was negligent]]> https://www.leeandleelaw.com/?p=47977 2020-08-05T20:10:09Z 2019-03-27T20:09:28Z How to notice signs of medical malpractice Medical malpractice can occur before surgery or treatment and after as well. The key is to notice signs that conflict with the hospital’s regulations. Some signs of negligence before treatment includes:
  • Not asking consent
  • Prescribing the wrong medication
  • Prescribing the wrong dosage
  • Not taking safety precautions
  • Failure to diagnose or incorrect diagnosis
While a misdiagnosis and incorrect medication prescription can lead to severe outcomes such as flaring up of other symptoms and even death, negligence during surgery can also result in similar issues. Some things that follow negligent surgery include:
  • Increased pain after the recovery period
  • Unable to properly function as expected
  • Experiencing unrelating symptoms
  • Experiencing other mental and physical effects
  • Experiencing chronic illnesses or result in death
What is the time limit for filing a claim? The state of Washington requires medical malpractice victims to file their claim either one year after their discovery of negligence or three years after the negligence has taken place. What is needed to file a claim? It can be frustrating for someone who expected to be better after their hospital visit but is now facing the struggle to spend extra money on treatments. A hospital visit gone wrong can put someone out a job and deep in debt. It is essential to determine if you are indeed experiencing a medical malpractice situation. To do this, you will need to have evidence of your doctor’s negligence. Having all your records in place could help to assist your case better and get you the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering at the hands of someone else’s negligence.]]> On Behalf of Lee & Lee, PS <![CDATA[Who Is Responsible For A Dog Bite?]]> https://www.leeandleelaw.com/?p=47975 2020-08-05T17:53:58Z 2019-01-30T18:52:25Z Get medical help Whether you’re out on a run or in your yard, you should seek medical attention immediately after an attack. It doesn’t matter if you don’t think the bite isn’t severe enough; it is vital to seek medical assistance as bites can lead to bacterial infection or worse. Dog bites that expose the bone can lead to symptoms, such as having a fever or feeling faint. Obtain the necessary records After you’ve treated your wound or are in the process of getting assistance, it is vital to check the medical records of the dog. This can help doctors treat your wounds better by knowing what injections or sickness the dog might have. Having the records on hand will also help in your claim for compensation. Who pays for a dog bite? In the state of Washington, the responsibility of a dog bite falls on the owner. Washington is a “strict liability” state, which means that if a person’s dog attacks someone, they are legally responsible for paying for any expenses the victim will have incurred. These expenses can range anywhere from medical bills to lost wages. It’s important to be careful around dogs as their actions could be unpredictable. Keeping away could help you or someone you know to avoid this unfortunate circumstance. However, some events are unforeseen, so it’s crucial to get help right away and make sure you are compensated for your injuries.]]>