Did you know there are over 1.3 million lawyers practicing in the United States?
If you were in a car accident, there’s no shortage of attorneys to choose from. Just because someone calls themselves a car accident lawyer, though, doesn’t mean they’re the best person for your case.
How can you sift through the billboards, websites, and legal ads to find a great car accident attorney in your area? Here are four important questions to ask during the consultation.
1. How Much Experience Do You Have With Cases Like Mine?
The best car accident lawyer is someone with a proven background of winning cases similar to yours. Personal injury lawyers probably handle other types of cases too, but it’s worth asking what percentage of their cases are car accidents.
Find out how many cases they’ve won, how many they’ve settled, and how many have gone to trial. Previous trial experience is essential in case yours ends up going to trial too.
2. Do I Have a Strong Case?
Just because you were involved in a car accident doesn’t automatically mean you have a legal case. To recover damages in a car accident settlement, you have to prove two things:
The other driver was at fault and failed to act with a reasonable degree of care
You have suffered real injuries and damages as a result of the wreck
Your attorney should be able to analyze your case to see which factors are in your favor, as well as anything that might factor against you. They should also provide a realistic estimate of the settlement or judgment you could receive.
3. How Are Your Attorney Fees Structured?
A good car wreck lawyer will have transparent, easy-to-understand pricing. Most work on a contingency basis, which means you only pay them if they win your case.
Contingency fees vary by state and law firm, but the standard is between 33% and 40% of your settlement. Keep in mind that this isn’t the only payment you need to know about.
You also need to ask who’s responsible for associated court costs and filing fees. What happens if you don’t win your case? Will you be responsible for repaying disbursements or any other fees?
4. Who Will Handle My Case?
Find out if the lawyer you’re personally meeting with will be the one who handles your case. If you hire a large, well-known law firm, your case may get passed to a junior associate.
This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but you’ll want to know what to expect ahead of time.
You also need to find out who you’ll be speaking with about your case. Can you call or email the attorney directly, or will you speak to a paralegal or secretary? Find out when (and how often) to expect progress reports and any preferred communication methods.
Find the Best Car Accident Lawyer for Your Case
To file a car accident claim and maximize your car accident settlement, you need the right lawyer on your side. Use the questions listed above to sift out the mediocre attorneys and find the right car accident lawyer for your case.
Now that you know how to find a good car wreck lawyer, what’s next? Our site is full of more great tips and advice, so keep browsing!
