Being involved in a car accident can cause discomfort, pain, and unforeseen expenses. When you’re injured in an accident, you may need a car accident attorney to help you get back on your feet and get the compensation you deserve. Here are 6 things you should know about car accident lawyers.
1. Their first consultation is generally free.
Many accident victims don’t see an attorney because they believe they’ll have to pay a high fee. Although this may vary from lawyer to lawyer, most offer the first consultation free of charge. It’s at this meeting that the attorney usually determines if you do have a case worth their time.
2. They don’t require a retainer.
Car accident attorneys usually work on a contingency basis. They only collect a fee if you win your case. If you do win, they take a certain percentage, often 33%. This is set when you decide to hire the attorney to represent you in the lawsuit.
3. The lawyer’s percent isn't the only cost you should expect.
If the case involves a lot of additional expenses or the attorney has to hire professionals to work on the case, you’ll be required to pay for a portion of these extra expenses, in addition to the agreed-upon fee.
4. An honest car accident lawyer will not guarantee you a win.
If he or she does, find someone else. Regardless of how good a case may look, the attorney can give you an opinion on how good the case may be but can’t guarantee a win. A good lawyer will not promise that you will win a certain amount of money in the lawsuit, either. Lawyers aren't psychics and good ones won't pretend they are.
5. Car accident attorneys are your best bet for a lawsuit resulting from a car accident.
Every lawyer has one or two areas in which they specialize. Car accident lawyers have the knowledge and the experience of accident injury lawsuits and how they work. They are also familiar with accident-related litigation, legal citations, and how the court systems work. They can also stop you from making costly and damaging mistakes during the legal process.
6. Car accident lawyers are there to represent you and act on your behalf.
Lawsuits often include depositions, witnesses, court proceedings and subpoenas. An attorney is familiar with the procedure and will do the talking for you in many of the situations. They also know “fact from fiction” and know what to expect from other attorneys, medical professionals and other legal professionals.
Whether you’re the victim of a car accident or the one who caused the accident, it’s important you do everything you can to help get things back to normal as quickly and cost-free as possible. Contact a car accident lawyer. It can make all the difference in your life and the life of your family.
