In 2020, there were an estimated 4.8 million car accidents resulting in injuries. When these types of events occur, it often leads to expensive medical bills, loss of income, and pain and suffering for the victim. In these situations, you need someone to fight on your behalf. If you were involved in an auto collision, you may be thinking about hiring a car accident lawyer. But before you do, you need to have an important discussion with them. Below are 9 questions to ask before hiring a car accident lawyer.
1. How Long Have You Been Practicing Law?
This question is vital to ask before you hire a lawyer. You want to work with someone who has experience dealing with car accident cases. The longer the lawyer has been practicing, the more likely they are to have the experience needed to win your case.
2. Have You Handled Cases Like Mine Before?
It’s important to hire an attorney who has handled cases similar to yours. They’ll know what to expect and how to best represent you.
The last thing you’d want is to partner with a car accident attorney who has to blindly help you with your case. You want someone who knows exactly what they’re doing.
3. What is Your Win/Loss Record?
An attorney’s win/loss record can give you a good idea of how successful they are. If they’ve won a lot of cases, that’s a good sign! Hiring a car accident lawyer with a long history of winning cases means there’s a high chance they’ll do the same for you.
4. How Much Will Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer Cost?
Fees vary widely among attorneys, so it’s important to ask about cost upfront. You don’t want any surprises later down the line. Get a quote and ask for it in writing.
Sometimes consultations move a bit fast, so you may not fully understand all of the fees. Therefore, having a breakdown of the costs will lay out everything that you can expect to pay.
5. What Are the Chances I’ll Win My Case?
It’s impossible to know for sure whether you’ll win your case. However, a good car accident lawyer can give you an estimate based on the facts of your case. If they’re not willing to give you at least a ballpark idea, that’s not a great sign.
6. How Much Compensation Can I Expect?
This is similar to question number five, but it’s worth asking nonetheless. Your lawyer should be able to give you an idea of how much money you could potentially receive. But remember, it’s just an estimate and not a guarantee.
7. What is the Statute of Limitations?
The statute of limitations is the deadline for filing a lawsuit. If you miss the deadline, you won’t be able to file a claim at all. So, it’s important to ask your lawyer about the statute of limitations for your case.
8. Do I Need to Go to Court?
Most car accident cases are settled out of court. However, there’s always a chance that your case could go to trial.
You should ask your car accident lawyer if they think it’s likely you’ll need to go to court. They may not know the answer, but they may be able to provide a guess based on the details of your case.
9. Who Will Be Working on My Case?
When you hire a car accident lawyer, you’re not just hiring the lawyer themselves. You’re also hiring their whole team. Therefore, it’s a good idea to ask who else will be working on your case.
Reasons to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been in an auto accident, you may be wondering if you should hire a lawyer or handle the claim yourself. Well, here are some reasons why you may want to hire a car accident attorney:
An Attorney Can Help You Navigate the Complex Legal Process
It’s not easy to make a claim against the insurance company by yourself. Getting legal help can ensure that you don’t accidentally say something that weakens your case.
Not only that but hiring a car accident lawyer lifts a huge burden from your shoulders. You won’t have to deal with the headache of the ins and outs of the case.
An Attorney Can Help You Get a Higher Settlement
Most people who try to negotiate their own settlements end up getting much less than they deserve. An experienced attorney will know how to get you the maximum amount of compensation possible.
You Deserve to Have a Car Accident Attorney on Your Side
After enduring painful car accident injuries, you deserve to have an experienced car accident attorney on your side. Hiring a lawyer is the best way to ensure that you get a proper settlement. If you’ve been in a car accident, don’t wait to hire an attorney. The sooner you do, the better.
You Don’t Have to Worry About the Insurance Company’s Tactics
The insurance company will have lawyers who are experienced in getting people to settle for as little as possible. Having your own lawyer ensures that you level the playing field. That’s why most people hire an attorney.
You don’t want to be a victim of the insurance company’s sneaky tactics.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Huntington Beach
After getting injured in a car crash, you need strong legal representation. If you take your time and ask the questions above, you’ll increase your chances of hiring a car accident lawyer that’s right for you. An experienced attorney can help to get you the compensation you deserve.
If you’re looking for a car accident lawyer in Huntington Beach, let us assist you. Our team has the experience needed to help you win your case. To request a free consultation, call us at 657-845-6420 or contact us online.