Our client, a Seattle attorney who also works as an arbitrator-mediator, was a restrained driver traveling through a four-way stop intersection when another vehicle entered from his right and struck his vehicle broadside. Because both vehicles entered the intersection at roughly the same time, liability was immediately disputed, as traffic laws generally give the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right.

Shortly after the collision, our client began experiencing neck pain. He sought care from his primary physician, who ordered both an MRI and an EMG study. The EMG, which focused on possible carpal tunnel syndrome, was inconclusive. The MRI revealed moderate degenerative disc disease and moderate cervical stenosis—conditions that develop over time and are not typically caused by a single traumatic event. Conservative treatment, including physical therapy, was recommended.

Despite several months of therapy, his symptoms did not improve. Approximately eight months after the accident, he was referred to an orthopedic specialist, where a second MRI was performed. This imaging revealed that his cervical stenosis had progressed from moderate to severe. Surgical intervention was recommended, and a second opinion confirmed the need for surgery.

One year after the accident, facing a potentially life-altering procedure, our client retained MartinLaw. At the outset, the case presented significant challenges. Liability was contested, and linking the progression of his cervical condition to the accident appeared difficult due to the preexisting nature of stenosis. However, given the seriousness of his condition and the impending surgery, it was critical to pursue the claim.

The surgery was performed approximately one year and three months after the accident, followed by an extended and painful period of rehabilitation. About one year and eight months after the accident, the case was prepared for settlement. The liability issue was addressed in part by statements from the other driver indicating she had not seen our client before entering the intersection.

A key component of the case was a comparative analysis of the MRIs. The initial post-accident MRI showed only moderate stenosis, while the follow-up MRI eight months later documented severe stenosis. This progression provided critical evidence that the accident had aggravated the preexisting condition.

Within two weeks of submitting a comprehensive demand package, the insurance company responded with an offer of policy limits, resulting in a substantial six-figure settlement for our client.