With over 6 million car crashes occurring each year in the US, an accident is something that many of us will experience at some point in our lives. However, if you’re injured in a car accident, how can you seek compensation?
This settlement is essential, as it can help with pain and suffering, hospital bills, and time off from work. However, to get a generous settlement, you need to work with a car crash lawyer who can help you win your case.
How do you find the right lawyer? To learn more, keep reading to find seven questions to ask your potential lawyer, helping you find the best firm for the job.
1. Have You Handled Cases Similar to Mine?
The best car crash lawyer is someone who has handled plenty of cases similar to your own. Car crashes can be incredibly complex, with so many various causes, factors, and outcomes.
Ask your potential lawyer if they have experience with cases similar to your own. For example, if you were partially at fault in an auto accident, are you still eligible for compensation?
Your lawyer should be able to confidently answer questions like this, based on their expert law knowledge and previous experience.
2. How Long Will Settlement Take?
If you’re involved with a car crash lawsuit, the process can be time-consuming and stressful. Plus, you’re likely to be counting on your compensation to cover medical bills and lost time from work.
For this reason, you want to ask your lawyer how long the settlement is likely to take. While your lawyer might not be able to give you an exact date, they should be able to provide an accurate timeline for how long the settlement will take.
If your case is particularly complex and/or involves a number of different people, the case might take a while to sort out in court. However, your lawyer should always keep you updated as to the progress of your case.
3. What Are Your Fees?
Before hiring a car crash injury lawyer, you need to know what to expect in terms of fees. Each law firm will charge different fees.
Some will ask for payment upfront, some charge hourly, and some might only charge if they win your case. Be sure you understand what fee model the firm operates on and what your total costs are likely to be.
If a lawyer is out of your budget, they might be able to recommend other lawyers who could suit your finances. Or, depending on the circumstances of your case, you might qualify for some legal aid or pro-bono help.
4. How Much Compensation Will I Get?
One of the most important questions to ask is regarding your total compensation. After the trial or settlement, how much compensation will you get?
This money is important to help you recover after an accident, so you need a lawyer who will advocate for your case and fight to get you as much compensation as possible.
Keep in mind that compensation amounts can vary wildly. Although your lawyer will work as hard as they can, sometimes settlements are less than you’re expecting.
5. What Makes Your Firm Unique?
There are plenty of law firms out there that focus on car crashes, so ask your potential lawyer about what makes their firm unique.
What can they offer you that no other firm can? This could be anything from affordable fees, amazing customer service, or exceptional lawyers.
However, don’t take their word for it—read reviews online from past clients to make sure the firm is as great as they say they are. Looking for positive reviews can help you find a firm that is reliable, experienced, and capable of handling your case.
6. Who Will Be My Primary Point of Contact?
When having an initial consultation with a lawyer, don’t assume that they’ll be the same person who handles your case. Often, firms have plenty of lawyers, and the person you work with might not be the same person who first met.
Always ask for clarification as to who will handle your case, how experienced they are, and how often you’ll hear from them. If the firm can’t answer this, they might be unorganized or incapable of looking after your case, so proceed with caution.
Even large firms should be able to provide personal, caring service, with one lead lawyer looking after your case.
7. How Much Time Can You Devote to My Case?
Sometimes, law firms take on as many cases as they can, maximizing profit. However, this sometimes means that they stretch themselves too thin.
You need a lawyer who can devote plenty of time to your case. Ask them about their current workload and how much time will be spent working on your lawsuit.
Find out as well how often you’ll communicate, which is important to keep you up to date on progress.
Find the Right Car Crash Lawyer With These Questions
If you’re in need of a car crash lawyer, these questions can help. Use them during your consultation with potential lawyers, as they can help you find the firm that’s best for you.
Once you find the right lawyer, you’ll meet and discuss your case in more detail. You’ll likely provide them with key documentation, like police reports and medical bills, which they can use to get started.
While it may take some time to settle your case, with the right lawyer, you’re sure to get the compensation you deserve after your accident.
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