You are shaking as you stare at the crumpled mess that was your car. Lookers on are asking if you need an ambulance because you’re bleeding from a cut on your head. Everything is whirling around you and the last thing on your mind is a lawyer. Once the mayhem settles down, a lawyer is exactly what should be on your mind. While not every accident requires legal intervention, serious accidents do.
Why Do I Need A Lawyer?
So many motorists drive under the misconception that if an accident were to occur, the insurance companies would step in and handle it. In simple cases that can be true, but if the accident is anything more than a fender bender it becomes a bit more complicated. If one of the parties involved is uninsured, had been drinking, is injured or even killed, the issue grows bigger than the something you can handle with the insurance companies.
When Is the Right Time to Call A Lawyer?
If you have questions about how to proceed after an accident, call a lawyer! The sooner you get an accident lawyer involved and looking at the specifics of your situation, the better. Most insurance companies want to pay you the least amount as possible and will drag out the claims process in an effort to make you feel so frustrated that you will accept any amount just to make it all go away. An experienced accident lawyer knows how to expedite your claims with the insurance company and can not only get you compensated more quickly but can also maximize the amount you receive.
Where Can I Find An Experienced Accident Lawyer?
The recommendations of friends or family can be a powerful asset in situations as these. Unfortunately, referrals aren’t always easy to come by. Searching the internet for an accident lawyer in your area is a viable option, but as with everything you find on the internet, be sure to read the reviews and do some research before just picking the first name at the top of the list. It may make you feel more comfortable to contact a Lawyer Referral Network. They will refer you to a specialized lawyer in your area that has been certified as being in good standing with the local Bar Association.
What Qualifications Should I Look For In An Accident Lawyer and How Much Will This Cost Me?
There are many issues that go along with a car accident. From liability to personal injury or even wrongful death. Depending on the circumstances of your accident you may need a lawyer experienced in all aspects of automotive accidents. It’s very important that the lawyer you chose has experience in dealing with and getting results from insurance companies, both auto and health. You should also check the lawyer’s fee structure. Depending upon the case specifics, you may be able to find a lawyer that will accept your case on a contingency basis, which means that they don’t get paid unless they win for you.
What Questions Should I Ask to Make Sure I’m Getting the Right Lawyer for My Case?
When hiring a lawyer it is important to know exactly what you are getting for your money. When you speak to the lawyer you should be prepared to answer a lot of questions regarding your accident and your role in it, so make sure you have all of your facts together including any documentation pertaining to the accident. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of your own. You have a right to know the lawyers level of expertise and what you should expect from their service. Here are some good questions to start with:
- How many cases, similar to mine, have you handled?
- What is a common settlement for a case like mine?
- How much of my case will you be handling yourself?
- How long do these types of cases take?
- How much out of pocket expense should I expect?
Every accident is scary, but an accident that has devastated your life can be terrifying. Hiring the right accident lawyer can make all the difference on your road to recovery.
