In the aftermath of an auto accident, you may find yourself facing mounting medical bills, car repair costs, and the potential loss of income due to injuries. Navigating this situation and dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, and that’s where a personal injury lawyer can play an invaluable role.
When Should You Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Generally, it’s a good idea to consult with a personal injury lawyer if:
- You’ve Sustained Injuries: The severity and longevity of your injuries directly affect the amount of compensation you may receive from the liable party (including through his insurance). Generally, the longer your recovery period, the higher your potential compensation, and a lawyer can ensure you get what you deserve.
2. Liability or Damages Is Disputed: If it’s unclear who was at fault or if the insurance company disputes their policyholder’s liability, a lawyer can help gather evidence to support your case. If the liable party (or insurance company) disputes damages sustained, an attorney can likewise help.
3. Insurance Company is Uncooperative: Insurance companies can sometimes delay or deny claims unfairly. A personal injury lawyer can handle these disputes and negotiations on your behalf.
How to Choose the Right Personal Injury Lawyer?
When it comes to hiring a personal injury lawyer, consider the following:
- Experience: Look for an attorney whose practice includes personal injury law and has had experience with your type of case (for example, auto wreck) over a number of years.
- Reputation: Check client testimonials, online reviews, and ask about the lawyer’s track record with auto accident claims. A great place to review is with the Martindale-Hubbell attorney peer review ratings. *An attorney who has earned an “AV Preeminent” peer review ranking is at the top of all lawyers for competency and ethics.
- Fee Structure: Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they receive a percentage of your settlement or verdict. Make sure your case is being charged on contingency and not an hourly fee because a contingency ensures the lawyer has a personal stake in the highest resolution possible.
Key Questions to Ask Your Potential Lawyer
Before hiring, make sure to ask some key questions:
- What is your experience handling cases like mine?
- What is your success rate for resolutions?
- How will you handle my case?
- What are your fees?
- How long do you expect this process to take?
Remember, hiring a personal injury lawyer is about securing the best possible outcome for your situation. Take the time to research and find the right lawyer for your case.
In our next article, we will discuss the process of filing a personal injury lawsuit after an auto accident and what to expect during this process. Stay tuned!
Author's Note:
Attorney Bill Connor of the Bill Connor Law Firm in Orangeburg, SC, is a distinguished legal professional who holds an AV Preeminent rating, recognizing his legal ability and adherence to professional standards of conduct and ethics, reliability, diligence, and other criteria relevant to the discharge of professional responsibilities.
