The Best Car Accident Lawyer
An injury in a car accident can leave you fighting with insurance companies to get the coverage you need to pay your medical bills. If you have one of the best car accident attorneys by your side, you'll have one working for you to make sure you get what you're owed. Best of all, you don't pay them until they get the money from the other side.
Here is a guide to help you find the right car accident attorney for your needs.
Find the best car accident attorney
An auto accident attorney is a type of personal injury attorney. It can be confusing how many options there are in your area. It seems that every commercial, bus platform and bulletin board offers the services of a different lawyer. By asking the right questions and looking for the right credentials, you'll be able to narrow down the field to what's right for you.
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What is their experience?
Many personal injury attorneys focus on a specific type of case. Some handle workers' compensation cases, others handle class action lawsuits against manufacturers, and some handle car accidents. You want to find an attorney who has extensive experience in car accidents. Find an attorney who has handled cases all the way to trial, in case your case is unlikely to be settled before then. Of course, with this experience, there should be a track record of success in obtaining appropriate settlements and judgments from insurance companies.
What are the fees?
It's no secret that lawyers cost a pretty penny. You want to find an attorney who works on a contingency basis, meaning he doesn't make any money until you get a settlement or verdict. Most personal injury attorneys work for a percentage of the final award amount. This is usually around 33%, possibly more if your case goes to trial. You will also likely be responsible for costs such as registration fees and expert witness fees. Read the attorney fee agreement carefully to understand your responsibilities. Don't just decide on fees; If they are the best, they might be worth the extra money.
Can they communicate clearly?
You will have many questions in the context of your case. You want to have an attorney who can talk to you in a way that you understand what is going on. A lawyer sticking to legal jargon may sound impressive, but you'll find yourself confused in the process.
Are their peers respecting them?
Do some research online to see what other attorneys have to say about them. Don't be afraid to ask them what percentage of their work comes from other attorney referrals. The higher the ratio, the better. Referrals mean that other attorneys have a lot of respect for the person you're talking to—respect enough that they risk their own reputation on a recommendation. A good attorney is also willing to provide references that speak to their abilities.
You can also call the bar association to find out if the lawyer has been subject to any disciplinary action.
Do they have a professional office?
You need a lawyer who has the resources to handle your case. This means they have staff capable of doing investigative work and resolving issues as they arise. It is very likely that you will interact with some of these employees as your case progresses. An organized office space is also a good indicator that the lawyer runs a professional business. It will be hard to trust a lawyer who is going through files trying to find your case when you come to the meeting.
Why do I need a car accident lawyer?
It is possible to handle a car accident injury on your own. You don't necessarily have to hire a lawyer. This begs the question, why should it?
The reason you should get a car accident attorney is that you will likely get the bare minimum from the insurance company if you handle the case yourself. Insurers make a profit and do so, in part, by reducing claims costs when possible. You may not be aware of some legal rights to compensation for things like emotional trauma. A car accident attorney knows the ins and outs of the process and, as a result, can get the most out of your accident. This is their job.
When Should You Look for a Car Accident Lawyer?
Although you can bring an attorney to review your case at any time before the settlement is closed by the insurance company, it is best to get an attorney as soon as you are injured. Your attorney can recommend medical professionals to help diagnose the condition and get you the best care you deserve. And if you have a lawyer.