Best Car Accident Lawyers in Yakima
SPENCER FIELDING
Car Accident Lawyers
After graduating from Duke Law School, Spencer was employed with Thompson & Knight, one of the largest law firms in Dallas, Texas. He worked in their Corporate & Securities Department. Thriving but not enamored with the narrow strictures of corporate firm life, he later accepted a job with a Dallas attorney that specialized in Personal Injury.
Upon gaining invaluable insight into Personal Injury law, Spencer returned to Eastern Washington and opened up his own Personal Injury practice. In addition to the Tri-Cities office which opened in May 2010, Spencer opened offices in Yakima, Moses Lake, Seattle, Tacoma and Boise. Later, he established offices in Kent, Olympia, Lakewood, Everett, Meridian and Royal City. Spencer was born and raised on a farm in Pasco, Washington. As a young boy, he spent several summers picking apples in the orchard. One of Spencer’s proudest achievements was becoming the fastest apple picker in the orchard, once picking 15 bins of apples in one day.
Growing up on a farm taught him the value of hard work and gave him the opportunity to learn Spanish. He also enjoyed playing basketball in his youth and would practice several hours a day. In fact, due to his relentless pursuit of shooting prowess, he once made 226 free throws in a row. Spencer is married to Andrea Allred Fielding, who is also from Eastern Washington, and they have six children.
Brandon Ritchie
Car Accident Lawyers
Brandon has devoted his entire legal career to personal injury, having personally represented over a thousand separate car accidents amounting to well over $15,000,000.00 in total settlements. Brandon personally understands the frustrations and complications that car accidents cause because his father was severely injured in an accident when Brandon was three years old.
Brandon attended law school at the University of Idaho College of Law and earned his Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Washington State University. Prior to law school, Brandon earned his Bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University-Idaho in Business.
Brandon grew up in Burley, Idaho, a small farming community, where he learned the value of hard work while working on both potato and sugar beet farms, as well as raising livestock.
It was during his days in Burley that Brandon developed his love of the outdoors. His family often took camping trips and fishing outings. Fishing continues to be one of his favorite things.
Brandon is married to Sarah Ritchie who grew up on a fruit farm in Walla Walla, Washington. They have children, Mason, Jake, Chase, and Hailey who are the joy of their lives and keep them extremely busy outside of work.
John Kapuza
Car Accident Lawyers
Meet John Kapuza, co-founder of Kapuza Lighty, PLLC – Accident Injury Lawyers in Yakima, Washington.
With over 27 years of experience in personal injury law, John has become well-known in the legal community and is recognized as one of the best lawyers in Central Washington.
His tireless dedication and unwavering commitment to his clients have resulted in an impressive track record of successful cases that have brought justice to injured individuals throughout the state of Washington. John has made it his mission to help injured people who have been wronged.
John earned his dual major in History and Political Science from The State University of New York at Buffalo in 1992 before graduating in the top 15 percent of his class at Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1995. His recent results speak for themselves, including cases where he has won $2.5 million for a man suffering orthopedic injuries in a car accident, $2 million for a man suffering a head injury in a forklift accident, and $1.5 million for a man suffering a head injury in a motorcycle accident.
As a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and listed member of The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100, John is recognized as one of the premier lawyers in Washington state. He has also received numerous awards and recognitions, such as being named a “Super Lawyer” by Washington Law & Politics magazine since 2019 and receiving the top rating of “AV Preeminent” from Martindale-Hubbell for outstanding legal ability. John is known for his tireless commitment to fairness and firmness in negotiations to ensure his clients receive the compensation they deserve while always maintaining the highest ethical standards.
When John is not busy winning cases for his clients, you can usually find him fishing the waters of Washington, brewing craft beer, learning to play guitar, or packing his bags for another adventure with his wife, Lisa.
John’s passion for helping people extends beyond the legal field, as he and his wife are both active in their community. Lisa works locally at Hogback Development as a Development Director. John and Lisa have been involved with multiple local causes including the Yakima Red Cross, YWCA, Yakima’s Capitol Theatre, and United Way of Central Washington.
Contact John Kapuza if you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury. John and his team at Kapuza Lighty are ready to answer your questions and help you through this stressful time.
Terry P. Abeyta
Car Accident Lawyers
Although practicing in the most conservative area of the state, Terry Abeyta has earned recognition as one of the top plaintiff’s personal injury attorneys in Washington. He recovered $6.9 million on a bleacher fall case (the largest settlement in the history of Yakima County), $6.25 million on a car-truck crash (the largest settlement in the history of Franklin County), $4.1 million on a car crash case (the largest settlement in the history of Kittitas County), $3.5 million on a school playground case, the highest settlements in the history of Grant and Klickitat counties, $1.3 million on a car crash (the largest settlement in the history of Stevens County), the largest recovery on an uninsured motorist case in Yakima County history, the largest jury verdict on a cervical soft-tissue case in the history of Yakima County, and obtained a $700,000 settlement for the children of a 39-year-old Native American man who committed suicide in the Yakima Tribal Jail. Terry has tried 50 jury trials and arbitrated hundreds of cases.
Terry is is a member of Damages Attorney Round Table, a small, invitation-only group of the top personal injury lawyers in Washington state. He is past president of the Washington Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates, has served in many leadership roles for the Washington State Association for Justice, and is a past president of the Yakima County Bar Association. He has received WSAJ’s Alvin Anderson award for outstanding contribution to building WSAJ’s Eagle membership.
Mr. Abeyta was born and raised in Yakima. He graduated at the top of his class from Yakima Valley College, at the top of his class from Whitman College, and in the top 15 percent of his class at University of Washington School of Law. He worked his way through college as a newspaper reporter for the Yakima-Herald Republic, Walla Walla Union-Bulletin (owned by the Seattle Times), and the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
David M. Church
Car Accident Lawyers
Dave’s practice focuses exclusively on personal injury cases. He has successfully handled more than a thousand automobile accident cases. He has also resolved dog attack, premises liability, and slip and fall cases. Dave has recovered millions for his clients over the years. His educational, employment, and personal background have helped him achieve these results.
Dave earned a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Economics and a Spanish minor from Brigham Young University in Provo, UT. He then attended law school at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. While at Temple, Dave enrolled in the nationally acclaimed Integrated Trial Advocacy Program. His professor referred to him as a “bulldog” due to his aggressive advocacy on behalf of clients. During the summer before his last year of law school, Dave worked as a law clerk for the Washington State Attorney General’s Office with the Torts Division in Lacey, WA.
Dave has practiced law in Washington State since 2005. His past experience includes successfully representing hundreds of disabled people seeking benefits from the Social Security Administration, litigating disability cases at federal court, and representing bankruptcy clients. This experience has helped him better understand the devastating impact unexpected, unwanted circumstances can have on a person’s life.
Outside of work, Dave enjoys spending time with his wife and five children. They can often be found hiking, camping, enjoying other outdoor activities, or attending the kids’ sporting events.
BLAINE L. TAMAKI
Car Accident Lawyers
Blaine Tamaki has been a trial lawyer for over 35 years. He graduated with a Juris Doctorate from the University of Washington Law School in 1982. He obtained his Bachelor of Art degree in Economics with Honors Distinction from the University of Washington in 1979. He founded Tamaki Law in 1994 and has record-breaking results in cases throughout the Northwest.
In August 2012, Blaine received the distinguished “Trial Lawyer of the Year” award. This award, presented by the Washington State Association for Justice, honors a lawyer who advances the art and skill of advocacy, either in trial or by training others so as to benefit humankind. He was also designated a Super Lawyer by Washington Law & Politics, a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations, and peer evaluations.
KEVAN MONTOYA
Car Accident Lawyers
For over thirty years, Mr. Montoya has successfully represented clients in litigation involving multi-million dollar cases involving wrongful death, employment and business and commercial disputes. He regularly counsels businesses in Yakima and Central Washington on employment policies and helps businesses train employees regarding employment law compliance. He regularly speaks on employment issues.
Education
- Eastern Washington University, (B.A. in Business Administration, summa cum laude, in 1985);
- University of Oregon Law School (J.D. 1989);
- Associate editor of the University of Oregon Law Review (1988 to 1989).
Admitted to Practice
- Admitted to practice in Washington, Oregon, Federal Court for the Eastern and Western Districts of Washington, and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Memberships
- Yakima County Bar Association, Washington State Bar Association and Oregon State Bar Association.
Community Activities
- Mr. Montoya is a member of Yakima Downtown Rotary. He is the past Chair of the Board of Directors for EPIC and is Past President of the Monsignor John A. Ecker Foundation.
- Past President of Yakima County Association
Awards
- Kevan was selected by SuperLawyers since 2019.
Navigating the Road to Recovery: Why You Deserve a Top-Tier Car Accident Lawyer in Yakima
Yakima, Washington, nestled amidst rolling hills and fertile valleys, offers a scenic backdrop for life in the Pacific Northwest. But even on a clear day, a car accident can turn your world upside down. In the aftermath of a collision, facing injuries, medical bills, and lost wages can feel like driving through a sudden snowstorm – disorienting and overwhelming. Here’s where a top-tier car accident lawyer in Yakima steps in, becoming your trusted guide and unwavering advocate throughout the legal process. This comprehensive guide explores the immense benefits of retaining a skilled Yakima car accident attorney who will fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing.
Understanding Washington’s Car Accident Laws and Your Rights
Washington is a “fault” car accident state, meaning the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for the damages of the injured party. A knowledgeable Yakima car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities of your case, including:
- Determining Fault and Liability: Establishing fault requires a thorough analysis of the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, and evidence like traffic camera footage. Your lawyer will meticulously investigate the details to build a strong case that proves the other driver’s negligence caused your injuries.
- Understanding Comparative Negligence: Washington follows a comparative negligence system. This means that if you’re found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage you’re deemed responsible. Your lawyer will strategically present your case to minimize any potential fault attributed to you.
- Maximizing Your Compensation: Washington law allows you to recover compensation for a variety of damages resulting from a car accident, including:
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental and emotional distress
- Property damage
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Understanding Washington’s Statute of Limitations: There’s a strict deadline for filing a car accident lawsuit in Washington, typically three years from the date of the accident. Your lawyer will ensure all deadlines are met to protect your right to compensation. You can find more information on the Statute of Limitations on the website of the Washington State Courts.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies: Both your own insurance company and the at-fault driver’s insurance company may be involved in your claim. Your lawyer will negotiate with insurance adjusters on your behalf, ensuring they adhere to Washington’s insurance laws and regulations and fight for a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your losses.
Beyond Legal Expertise: The Qualities of a Top-Tier Yakima Car Accident Lawyer
Not all Yakima car accident lawyers are created equal. Here’s what sets the best apart:
- Extensive Experience in Washington Car Accident Law: In-depth knowledge of Washington’s specific car accident statutes, precedents, and the intricacies of the Yakima legal system is crucial. Look for an attorney with a proven track record of success handling cases similar to yours in Yakima County.
- Focus on Car Accident Law: Seek a lawyer who specializes in car accident law. This specialization ensures they possess the in-depth understanding of accident investigation, liability, damages, and the intricacies of Washington’s car accident system to effectively advocate for your rights.
- Understanding of Accident Reconstruction: Complex car accident cases may benefit from accident reconstruction techniques that analyze the physics of the collision and determine contributing factors. Your lawyer should have access to accident reconstruction experts to strengthen your case.
- Medical Expertise Network: Personal injury cases hinge on medical evidence. Your lawyer should have a network of medical professionals who can assess your injuries, document their severity, and forecast potential long-term impacts on your health and well-being.
- Clear Communication and Accessibility: Clear and consistent communication is vital during this stressful time. A top-tier lawyer keeps you informed on case developments, answers your questions promptly, and addresses your concerns openly and honestly.
- Competitive Fees and Flexible Payment Structures: Many car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case and secure compensation for you. Discuss fee structures upfront to ensure transparency and explore options that fit your financial circumstances.