When you’ve been in an accident, you’ll want to find a reasonable auto accident attorney to help you with your case. There are many factors to consider, such as finding a firm that is local to you and ensuring that they have experience in car accident cases.
Find a local attorney.
Hiring a car accident attorney is vital if you’re in a car accident in New York. It can help you determine fault and receive compensation. You also have the right to file a third-party claim.
Before you hire a car accident attorney, you should gather your evidence. It may include photographs, video, and witness statements. It’s also a good idea to exchange contact information with the other driver.
You could be owed more money than the car insurance policy covers, depending on your sustained injury. You could also be awarded punitive damages. A car accident “calculator” is inaccurate, so you won’t know exactly what your case is worth until you meet with a lawyer.
The insurance company will try to make the claim process difficult. They may deny your coverage and even work against you. It’s also possible that you will find out more facts about the wreck you weren’t aware of.
Ask for referrals from past clients
When selecting an auto accident lawyer, ask for a few referrals. Look for a firm that has won awards for its services and has a proven track record for winning cases.
You should also check your state bar association to see if there are any recent disciplinary actions against the attorney you’re considering. You could also talk to your real estate agent, local lawyers, and other business professionals. They will likely have insider tips on who does an excellent job for their clients.
If the attorney you are considering doesn’t have a web presence, it’s always a good idea to make a list of questions to ask. If you end up working with the exact attorney, make sure you track how you and your attorney did with the case. It could give you some crucial clues in the future, especially if you need to hire a new attorney or refer someone to a specialist.
ACCESSIBILITY AND COMMUNICATION SHOULD BE PUT FIRST
Accessibility, transparency, frankness, and open communication are essential for a positive client-attorney relationship. Find a lawyer who is ready to answer your questions and provide you with comprehensive answers.
There may be lawyers who want to drag out the proceedings so they may get paid more. Make sure your lawyer is honest with you about the process and clearly explains what you may expect at each step.
Finally, ensure you can get in touch with your lawyer if necessary.
Do they return your calls? Do they understand what you’re saying? Are they prepared with a plan of action in case something goes wrong?
Ask for a description of the legal services your lawyer offers and how they handle client contacts.
SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION
Once you’ve shortlisted potential personal injury lawyers, it’s time to set up consultations with the lawyers. In most cases, law firms allow free consultations so that this process won’t cost you too much.
Make a list of questions you have and a brief outline of your case. Talk to your lawyers and be mindful of how you feel in their presence and whether they make an effort to communicate clearly and effectively.
Consider rating each lawyer on a scale of one to ten based on your experiences. Once you’re done, you’ll know exactly who to choose!