Have you been involved in a serious car accident? Are you wondering if it's worth your time and money to hire a lawyer?
Not every accident requires an attorney. In some cases, you may have sustained only minor injuries or minimal damage to your vehicle. However, there are times when finding a good car accident lawyer is your best course of action.
Here's what you need to know.
Consider Your Injuries and Car Damage
Injuries like bruises or scrapes are generally minor and most of your recovery will get covered by insurance. However, there are times when your injuries require additional compensation.
For example, maybe you have a serious head or neck injury such as a dislocation or fracture. These could lead to stiffness, decreased range of motion, or numbness. Or your injury could be something even more serious such as torn tissues or fluid buildup.
In these cases, you'll need to think about your long-term medical bills. You may be paying for emergency room stays, hospital visits, or medications. It's also possible that you're getting physical therapy on a regular basis.
In addition, it's important to consider the amount of money you'll be losing in wages due to your injury. Maybe your job requires you to work with your hands and you are no longer capable of performing it. Or maybe you've had to take time off for recovery and doctor visits.
You'll also need to consider the damage to your vehicle. Scratches and dents may be easy to repair, but other problems may not be.
Damage to your car doors, windows, and hood may require a major replacement. In some cases, you may even need to replace your entire car.
These kinds of issues require a lot of financial resources that you may not have available. Or you have filed a claim and not been awarded enough to recover what you've lost.
In these cases, it's critical to get a qualified car accident attorney on your side. Find someone who can help you get the resources you need to get back on your feet.
Know What A Lawyer Costs, and What They Can Do
Most car accident attorneys charge a "contingency fee." This means that they will take a percentage of the amount you are awarded, so you are only charged if you win. The amount is usually somewhere between 30-40%.
It's important to weigh that cost against what the right lawyer can do for you. Your attorney can help you to demonstrate the liability of the other driver and make sure you are complying with local regulations. They can also help you file a lawsuit properly and represent you in court if necessary.
You may be able to read up a bit before you file your suit, but most individuals do not have the knowledge necessary to make an airtight case. It's important to have a qualified lawyer represent you in order to make your time worth it.
Choosing a Car Accident Lawyer
Not all attorneys are the same. Choosing the best car accident lawyer for you will require a bit of research and follow-through.
Many attorneys allow you a free consultation where you can get a good idea of their experience without paying a dime. Talk to them about their qualifications.
What percentage of their caseload is dedicated to car accidents? How many of them end up settling, and how many go to trial? What percentage of their cases result in some kind of compensation?
You can also ask them to describe a case similar to yours that they won. What was their strategy?
In addition, you can look prospective attorneys up online and see what former clients are saying. Do many say that they were thrilled with the results of the case? Or are there some patterns of negative comments that make you wary?
Reach out to your social media community groups for recommendations or information about a particular attorney. It's important to choose someone local, as these professionals will have the best knowledge of the laws and regulations in your area. You may be surprised at the insight other citizens can provide.
The right lawyer will have a history of satisfied clients who can attest to a job well done. Researching your lawyer can give you the confidence that you're making a good decision.
The Benefits of Hiring an Attorney
Depending upon your situation, an attorney can offer you a number of advantages.
They can help you make a strong case and have connections with other professionals who can help you do so. These may include doctors or forensic experts.
Your lawyer may also be able to help you get compensation faster. This is a huge help if you're accruing plenty of medical bills or missing out on compensation at work.
If you are hopeful that you can settle your case outside of court, the right lawyer will know how to negotiate. You will get the money you need without having to sit through a stressful trial.
Your lawyer will be able to see through scare tactics and help diffuse any hostility problems with your lawsuit. Their knowledge will help you get the compensation required as quickly as possible.
Moving On
Being involved in an accident can be a scary time. The right car accident lawyer can help you to wade through the waters of the law so that you can begin your life again.
Don't stop getting smart about your accident compensation now. For more information on a great Georgia car accident lawyer, contact us today.