There is a great deal at stake when you’re involved in a car accident and must navigate the legal system. You might have experienced significant injuries and costs, and someone needs to be held to account so that you can get your life back on track.
If you’ve never been in a car accident before, or even navigated the legal system, it’s far too easy to make mistakes during the lawyer-hiring process. Unfortunately, mistakes can be costly. Before hiring the attorney you believe will be the best for your case, take note of these common and expensive errors. Awareness may prevent you from making the same ones.
Choosing a Lawyer Without Relevant Experience
When searching for a lawyer, enter your location and the type of lawyer you need into a search engine to improve your chances of hiring one who has experience in your case. For example, if you live in Phoenix and have been in a car accident, you would search for a Phoenix car accident lawyer.
Auto accident claims require an understanding of specific laws, medical documentation, and insurance tactics. Hiring an attorney without direct experience in car accidents and a proven track record of success may result in a weak case and possibly even a reduced settlement.
Hiring a Lawyer Based On Advertising
There’s no denying that some lawyers can look highly skilled, professional, and successful in their advertising. Still, that doesn’t mean they are. Marketing companies play a significant role in helping law firms present a strong image, thereby attracting new business.
Look past the advertising and focus on real results. Research their reviews, read case results, and request client testimonials before making your hiring decision.
Waiting Too Long to Hire a Lawyer
Car accidents can be traumatic, and you need time to rest and recover. However, time is of the essence if you plan to take legal action. Evidence can disappear, and witnesses’ memories can fade. What’s more, the statute of limitations comes into effect.
While it varies by state, it’s typically two years from the date of the accident. Even if you’re unsure if you need a lawyer, don’t delay calling one. They can provide valuable advice on your rights, enabling you to take legal action quickly if required.
Not Asking About Fees
When your primary focus is on holding the person responsible for your accident to account, it’s easy to forget about the costs associated with your legal case. However, they are a crucial consideration. If you’re not able to work due to your accident, you’ll need to plan how to pay them.
When hiring your lawyer, ask about how they charge their clients. Many personal injury lawyers charge contingency fees. This means that they receive a percentage of your payout as their fee if your case is successful. However, it’s worth asking what that percentage is and whether there are any additional costs.
It’s not unexpected that you’ll make a few mistakes while navigating the legal system for the first time. However, given how costly some of those mistakes can be in a car accident claim, avoiding them is crucial. Awareness of these common ones may make it easier to hire a lawyer for your case with confidence.
