When you're badly injured, the last thing you want to think about is filling out paperwork, searching for an attorney, or trying to gather evidence. Yet, these steps are necessary if you want to collect the compensation you deserve due to someone else's negligence. The more you know about personal injury cases and hiring an attorney, the less stressful this time will be.
We've created this website to offer basic personal injury law advice for anyone who has been injured or who may become injured in the future. Keep in mind that if you've been injured in a car accident, due to medical neglect, or even by slipping in someone else's parking lot, your case qualifies a personal injury case — and thus you'll find our collection of articles relevant.
A car accident is undoubtedly frightening and traumatic. Whether it is a major or minor accident, you may be entitled to compensation if you were injured due to another person's actions. Unfortunately, filing a personal injury claim successfully and getting the compensation you deserve isn't always as easy as it seems. You will need an auto accident lawyer to present your case and fight for your best interests. An experienced personal injury lawyer increases your chances of turning the entire process into a success. Here are a few critical steps that should guide you to hiring the right lawyer for your case.
1. Make Appointments
Make a list of prospective attorneys from recommendations and online searches before calling to set an appointment. Most auto accident attorneys don't charge consultation fees. Make a few appointments to ask questions and determine whether you will succeed in getting compensated. Ensure the lawyer is professional, timely, and willing to listen to your needs. They should also have the relevant experience to accommodate your case comfortably.
2. Discuss the Modes of Payment
Does the lawyer work with upfront fees or give allowance for contingency fees? Most personal injury lawyers would be willing to work on your case and get paid after they have won the case. Find a lawyer who seeks a percentage of the settlement amount after you have succeeded in your claim. This gives you peace of mind and comfort in knowing the lawyers will gear everything they have got into winning the case.
3. Sign a Service Contract
You might want to document your agreement with the auto accident lawyer on paper. After settling for a certain percentage that your lawyer is entitled to after settlement, ensure you have it on paper in the form of a service contract. Request a personal copy that you can present as evidence if there are disputes in the future after the compensation has been awarded.
4. Prepare to Present Your Case During Your Initial Visit
The quicker you take action on your case, the higher your chances of success. Record and carry car accident information and documents. Ensure you include medical bill receipts, police reports, video footage of the accident, pictures of the accident scene, papers of your medical insurance policy, and your auto insurance policy. Anything that might help your case will be of immense help to your attorney. Your attorney will also study the information to determine if you need to pursue the case. The more evidence you have, the higher your chances of pursuing a successful claim.
Legal representation when pursuing compensation for an auto accident is paramount. Consider following through with these steps when hiring a reliable lawyer to help protect your rights.
For more information, contact a law firm like Bangel, Bangel & Bangel.