Commercial van accident

Hello,
My mother was injured when a commercial "for hire" handicap transport van forgot to secure her wheelchair and dumped her in the van 13 months ago. She has been in a care facility because of this accident ever since, and has not been able to do many things she once could (she is 84). The accident occured in the state of Oregon. The transportation company has admitted fault, and their insurance company has paid some of the medical bills to date, but not her care facility bills (over $50,000) to date). We have since moved my mother to Arizona, to another care facility to be near us. The insurance company has contacted us recently and wants to settle with us ( I now have power of attorney for my mother). (1) should we get an attorney? (2) can we initiate a lawsuit from the state of Arizona with the accident occuring in Oregon, and will we have to go back to Oregon? (3) what are the time limits for starting a lawsuit (since this is 13 months old already)?.
Thanks for any advice

[ellencee]

I consulted on a case just like this a few years ago! It's frightening to think this kind of negligence is so wide-spread.
I recommend getting an attorney to review and guide you in this. You may not need an attorney for more than that, but I do recommend that you consult with an attorney and have one ready to review any and all offers, etc. The insurance company has lawyers, and you should, too.
I'm glad the at-fault party has stepped up and accepted responsibility; you are most fortunate in that aspect. (be sure to include future costs of related care related to these injuries when you settle!)
Best wishes to you and your mother.