The average US citizen will be involved in five car accidents in their lifetime according to some estimates. Others say it’s more likely to be 3-4 accidents. Not surprisingly, being in a car accident can be a traumatic and stressful experience, and 30-40% of people involved in serious accidents develop PTSD.
If you have suffered injuries and property damage, you may need to hire a car accident lawyer to help you pursue compensation. With so many options, choosing the right accident attorney is an important decision. Here are five key things to consider when selecting a accident lawyer:
Experience Handling Car Accident Cases
When researching potential car accident lawyers, of which there are 165,720 in the US, you’ll want to consider their specific experience handling accident injury claims. Look for an attorney who regularly takes on car accident cases and has a proven track record of securing favorable settlements and verdicts for clients. Ask about the types of accident cases they have handled, as well as their success rate. An experienced accident lawyer will be familiar with local insurance laws, have relationships with medical experts, and know how to build a strong case on your behalf.
Resources and Trial Skills
In addition to experience, consider the lawyer’s resources and trial skills. If your case goes to trial, which happens less than 5% of the time, your lawyer’s litigation experience and trial skills will be very important. You’ll want an attorney who has the time, staff, and financial resources to dedicate to your case. Ask whether they handle cases themselves or pass them off to less experienced attorneys. Also, find out if they are willing to take your case to trial if a fair settlement can’t be reached.
Fee Structure
The costs associated with hiring a accident lawyer can vary widely. Some may charge hourly fees but most work on a contingency basis, taking 30%-40% of your eventual compensation award. Be sure to understand the lawyer’s fee structure before signing any agreements. Ask if any upfront costs will be required for things like filing fees, expert witness fees, or court reporter costs. John Redmann, and his team of experienced Metairie car accident attorneys, explain that when your case is handled on a contingency basis, the attorney has a financial incentive to maximize your car accident settlement – if you reach a million-dollar settlement, their fee is significant.
Location and Availability
Convenience is an important practical consideration when choosing an attorney. You’ll want to find a car accident lawyer with an office located near you. This will make meetings and communications easier. Also, consider the lawyer’s current case load and availability. Responsive communication is key, so look for a lawyer that personally handles client calls and makes time to answer your questions. You don’t want to feel ignored or passed off to paralegals during your case.
Reputation and Rapport
As you narrow down your options, research client reviews and check reputable lawyer rating sources to assess the lawyer’s professional reputation. Schedule a consultation meeting to get a feel for the attorney’s personality and communication style. Choose a car accident lawyer who instills confidence in their capabilities, makes you feel comfortable, and is someone you can trust. They should be knowledgeable, compassionate, and willing to keep you informed each step of the way.
Vetting potential attorneys carefully will be time well spent for your car accident injury claim.
