Getting into an accident can leave victims facing not just potentially long-lasting physical injuries but also sometimes exorbitant hospital bills, lost wages, and other economic and non-economic damages. To maximize the chances of receiving a fair settlement that will cover 100% of those damages, it’s important to hire a lawyer as soon as possible after the crash, but don’t hire just any lawyer. First, read on to find out what to look for.
1. Relevant Experience
Look for a law firm that handles personal injuries and has experience helping car accident victims. Zane’s Law is a perfect example. The firm’s lawyers have plenty of experience in both negotiating settlements with insurance companies and taking cases to court. Although most car accident claims can be settled outside of court, it’s still important to work with a lawyer who has trial experience, just in case.
2. Clear Communication
Part of the reason that people hire lawyers is to help them understand what options are available for holding responsible parties accountable. To work well with a client, a lawyer must be able to explain those options clearly and let the person know how the case will move forward. Expect to receive clear, to-the-point information about the legal process, the firm’s fees, and what strategies the lawyer might employ to win the case.
Scheduling an initial consultation before deciding who to work with can make it easier to identify positive communication patterns. Pay attention to how the lawyer acts, including whether he or she seems focused on the case or distracted by other matters. It’s also important that the lawyer provide clear insight into the case and direct answers to a potential client’s questions. If an accident victim leaves the initial consultation with more questions than answers, that’s a bad sign.
3. Positive References
Before making a final decision about who to trust with a car accident claim, ask for a list of references from each lawyer that seems like a good fit. These references should be for previous clients who have agreed to allow others to contact them and speak about their experiences, both good and bad. Call with a list of questions in mind and make sure the former client’s experience lines up with the level of service the law office claims to provide.
4. Dedication to Clients
A good lawyer will be dedicated to helping clients obtain the best outcomes possible, whether by negotiating with the insurance company on an accident victim’s behalf or taking a legally liable party to court. It takes a lot of time, effort, and dedication to ensure that an accident victim is receiving the compensation that he or she deserves. If a lawyer seems detached or unengaged, there’s a good chance that he or she will not put in the time to get the largest settlement possible.
5. A Track Record of Positive Results
Check the law firm’s website or ask the lawyer about his or her track record in negotiations and at trial during the consultation. The right attorney will have more than just claims of competence. He or she will be able to back them up.
Schedule a Consultation Today
The best time for accident victims to seek legal representation is right after getting required medical care. Victims should avoid speaking with the liable party or that person’s insurance company until after consulting with a lawyer to discuss available options. Call to schedule a consultation today.
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