It may be tempting to hire the first car accident attorney. However, choosing a lawyer with the proper experience could benefit your case.
You want to choose an attorney who limits their practice to working on auto accident injury cases. This way, you can be sure they will know how to handle your case successfully.
How long have you been practicing law?
Considering the severe nature of a car accident, you should only work with an attorney with experience and knowledge. While this question should not be the determining factor, it can help gauge an attorney’s expertise and commitment to their practice.
Inquire about an attorney’s past case results and what kind of settlement they could secure for clients. This will give you a better idea of how they will handle your claim. In addition, delve into a bus accident attorney’s experience and inquire about their track record in handling similar cases and the outcomes they have achieved for their clients.
Ask an attorney about their communication style and see if it matches your vision of a robust legal relationship. Most car accident lawyers, including injury attorneys, will communicate with you directly to discuss your case. They should be attentive, consistent, and respectful.
What is your fee structure?
While many car accident attorneys work on a contingency basis, it is essential to understand exactly how the attorney will charge you. Ideally, the lawyer will provide a written fee agreement before your consultation.
You may be entitled to several damages depending on your case’s circumstances. Your motor vehicle accident attorney should explain the injuries you are eligible for, including future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Your attorney should be a member of national and state organizations dedicated to representing injured victims. These organizations sponsor legal publications and conduct lobbying activities for injury victims. In addition, your attorney should have a written client “Bill of Rights,” which details how they will treat you throughout your case.
What is your approach to settlement negotiations?
You must understand how your attorney will negotiate settlement with insurance companies. The answer to this question can significantly impact the amount of compensation you receive.
Knowing if your attorney has any special skills or training that may benefit your case would be helpful. For example, if an attorney worked in law enforcement before entering private practice, received specific training, and physically handled car accident cases, that experience could be invaluable.
It is also good to know whether your potential car accident lawyer can provide an estimate as to how long it will take for your case to resolve. Having this information is helpful in terms of planning and budgeting. It can also reduce anxiety about when to expect a resolution to your claim.
How will you communicate with me throughout the case?
In addition to asking about the attorney’s experience and whether they have a good track record, it is also a great idea to ask them about their communication style. This can help you determine how much input they expect from you and whether it matches your expectations for working together on your case.
Additionally, inquire about how long the attorney anticipates it will take for your car accident suit to resolve. While every case is unique, some personal injury suits can resolve quickly; others take over a year to reach a final resolution.
Lastly, asking your potential attorney whether or not they have malpractice insurance is essential. This will help you avoid the potentially devastating consequences of a misstep during your legal case.
Will you take my case to court if necessary?
Determining if the attorney you are considering has trial experience is essential. If they have extensive courtroom experience, they are more likely to be able to stand up to aggressive insurance companies and reach a fair settlement for their clients.
It’s also helpful to ask the attorney how long they expect it to take to resolve your case. While every case is different, most attorneys can provide a general estimate after reviewing the facts and evidence of your accident.
It is also a good idea to ask the attorney how often they will keep you updated on the progress of your case and who will be handling your matter. Larger law firms usually take multiple issues at once, so it’s essential to determine who will represent you.
