Have you ever been in a fender bender? Or maybe something a bit more serious?
We’ve been there, and we understand what you’re going through.
Finding the right lawyer for your auto accident case can be challenging. Especially when you’re also dealing with injuries, insurance companies, and mounting bills.
Here’s the problem…
Most people have no idea how to go about choosing a good attorney. They pick the first lawyer they find online, or they just go with whoever has the flashiest billboard. And that can cost them dearly.
The truth is…
The right lawyer can mean the difference between a fair settlement and getting completely screwed over. According to studies, accident victims with lawyers receive settlements that are 3.5 times higher than those who represent themselves.
Insane, right?
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- The 10 worst decisions you can make when hiring auto accident legal services
- How to go about choosing the right car accident attorney
- 3 questions you MUST ask before signing anything
- What to expect during your first consultation with an attorney
- How to pick the best lawyer from the group you’ve consulted with
Why Most People Get This Wrong
You know what’s crazy?
Motor vehicle accidents make up 52% of all personal injury cases in the United States. That’s MILLIONS of people who require legal assistance each and every year.
But here’s the really insane part…
The majority of these people have never hired a lawyer before. They have no idea what to look for. They have no idea what questions to ask. And insurance companies absolutely LOVE this.
Insurance companies train entire teams to minimize payouts. They know EXACTLY what to say to you to get you to accept their lowball offer. They’re banking on you NOT having proper legal representation.
That’s why searching – car accident lawyer near me – when on the look out for the right representation becomes absolutely CRITICAL to your auto accident legal services needs.
4 Biggest Mistakes People Make
Here are the most common mistakes people make when hiring legal services for their auto accident:
- Choosing the first lawyer they find online
- Focusing solely on price without comparing experience and results
- Hiring an attorney without checking their track record and client reviews
- Neglecting to specialize in auto accidents law firms and instead going with general practice firms
What Makes a GREAT Auto Accident Lawyer?
Here’s what sets the good lawyers apart from the truly great ones:
Experience That Really Matters
Look for an attorney who has handled cases similar to yours. If you were rear-ended, you want a lawyer who has dealt with hundreds of rear-end collisions.
Here’s why this matters:
Different types of auto accidents have unique legal challenges. An attorney who understands your specific type of collision will know exactly how to build the strongest argument.
Proven Track Record of Results
Ask for specific examples:
- What was their largest settlement?
- What’s their average settlement amount?
- How many cases have they taken to trial?
The best lawyers have this information readily available, and they’re proud to provide it to you.
Resources to Handle Complex Cases
You need a law firm with the resources to:
- Hire expert witnesses and accident reconstructionists
- Review medical records and bills
- Deal with multiple insurance companies
- Navigate complex litigation if necessary
A one-man show working out of their home office probably doesn’t have these resources.
Top Red Flags to Watch Out For
Lawyers you should run from in 2023:
- The billboard lawyer who promises unrealistic results
- The attorney who won’t meet you in person
- The firm that treats you like a number
- Lawyers who pressure you to sign immediately
- Garages with no office
- Answering service firms
Don’t settle for less when it comes to your legal representation. Keep looking until you find the right one.
Essential Questions to Ask During Consultations
These are the 4 critical questions that separate the pros from the amateurs:
Questions About Their Experience
- How many auto accident cases have you handled in the past two years?
- What was the outcome of your last 5 cases?
- Have you ever taken a case like mine to trial?
Questions About Their Process and Communication
- How will you communicate with me throughout the case?
- What’s your typical timeline for resolving cases?
- Who else will be working on my case? Are they experienced in auto accident law?
Questions About Money
- What’s your contingency fee percentage?
- What costs will I be responsible for?
- Do you advance case expenses, or do I pay upfront?
What to Expect During Your First Meeting with a Lawyer
Most good auto accident lawyers offer free consultations. Here’s what should happen:
- They’ll listen to your story. A quality attorney will let you tell your story uninterrupted, and then they’ll ask follow-up questions.
- They’ll explain your options. They should clearly outline your legal options, case value, and timeline for resolution.
- They’ll be upfront about challenges. Good lawyers don’t sugarcoat things. If there are problems with your case, they’ll tell you up front.
- You’ll feel comfortable. Trust your gut on this. If something feels off during the consultation, keep looking.
Why Specialized Auto Accident Legal Services is Worth it
Here’s something most people don’t realize:
Auto accident law is incredibly specialized. There are specific rules and strategies for things like statute of limitations, insurance coverage, evidence preservation, and medical documentation.
A lawyer who focuses on auto accidents knows all these rules inside and out. They’ll catch things that a general practice attorney would simply overlook.
Making Your Final Decision
So you’ve met with several attorneys and taken free consultations. How do you know who to choose?
Compare their experience with cases similar to yours. The lawyer who’s handled 500 rear-end collisions is probably better than the one who’s done 50 of everything.
Consider their communication style. You want someone who explains things clearly and who makes you feel like you’re being heard.
Look at their resources. Do they have the team and tools needed to truly maximize your settlement?
Trust your instincts. Sometimes the best choice isn’t the most obvious one.
The Bottom Line on Your Legal Journey
Choosing the right auto accident legal services can literally change the course of your life. The difference between a good lawyer and a great one could mean tens of thousands of dollars.
Don’t rush this decision. Take time to interview multiple attorneys and ask the tough questions. Remember…
You only get one shot at this. Once you settle your case, that’s it. There are no do-overs.
Insurance companies have teams of experienced lawyers working for them. Shouldn’t you have someone equally experienced fighting FOR you?
Find the right lawyer, and get the justice you deserve.
