If you’ve been in a car accident that was caused by another driver’s negligence, hiring an auto accident attorney is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself both legally and financially. While the idea of a lawsuit may seem unpleasant, an experienced attorney can help navigate a complex legal process and get you the maximum compensation you deserve.
There are usually no upfront costs when you hire an auto accident lawyer on a contingency fee basis. This means the attorney only gets paid if your case results in a settlement or court award. Their fee typically ranges from 33-40% and comes out of the money awarded to you. However, considering how much more you stand to gain compared to trying to handle the claim yourself, it is well worth it.
What Services Does an Auto Accident Attorney Provide?
When you retain an auto accident lawyer, here are some of the key services they can provide:
Investigation and Evidence Collection
Right after an accident occurs, important evidence can disappear or witnesses’ memories may fade. Your attorney will thoroughly investigate the crash scene and collect statements, photos, and other evidence that puts their client in the best light. This lays a strong foundation for any potential settlement negotiations or trial.
Insurance Claim Handling
An experienced personal injury attorney is familiar with insurance company practices and knows how to maximize the value of your bodily injury claim. They will submit detailed documentation of your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and long-term impacts to support a high settlement demand.
Lawsuit Filing and Litigation (if Needed)
While many accident claims are settled before going to court, some require a lawsuit when negotiations fail. Your attorney handles all legal paperwork and court hearings or proceedings. They know how to build a compelling case and present evidence persuasive enough to settle or win at trial.
What are the Key Steps in the Claims Process?
Now that we understand the importance of hiring an auto accident attorney, here are the typical steps they follow in handling your injury claim:
Initial Consultation
You meet with the lawyer to discuss the details of your accident and injuries. They evaluate the potential liability and damages aspects of your case. This initial meeting is often free of charge.
Evidence Gathering
The attorney immediately begins collecting evidence like the police report, witness statements, photos, and your full medical records. They may hire an investigator to inspect the collision site.
Case Evaluation
If negotiations fail, your lawyer thoroughly analyzes the liability and damage factors to advise on your chances if the lawsuit proceeds to trial instead of settling.
Filing Lawsuit
If a settlement can’t be reached, a complaint is filed against the at-fault driver in civil court to have a judge or jury decide your claim’s value.
Resolution and Closure
Finally, once all medical treatment concludes, liens are resolved and settlement funds are received, your auto accident case is closed and you’ve obtained the compensation you deserve.
Wrapping Up
In summary, an auto accident lawyer provides vital guidance, advocacy, and representation for people injured due to others’ negligent acts behind the wheel. Their expertise secures the maximum compensation and closure that accident victims need and deserve.
An experienced personal injury attorney is familiar with insurance company practices and knows how to maximize the value of your bodily injury claim. They will submit detailed documentation of your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and long-term impacts to support a high settlement demand.
Right after an accident occurs, important evidence can disappear or witnesses’ memories may fade. Your attorney will thoroughly investigate the crash scene and collect statements, photos, and other evidence that puts their client in the best light. This lays a strong foundation for any potential settlement negotiations or trial.
