There are more than 281 million registered automobiles in the United States. So, it’s no wonder that drivers are involved in an average of 6 million road crashes every year. Sadly, these car collisions lead to about 3 million injured or disabled motorists and passengers, annually. With those alarming statistics, it’s smart to be prepared.
If you or someone you love is severely injured in an auto accident, a skilled car accident attorney can make a huge difference in the outcome of your claim.
For a serious claim, prepare to launch a comprehensive search to find the right attorney. Review multiple options before deciding.
Ask your friends, family members, co-workers, and neighbors for recommendations. A referral likely means their lawyer did a good job for them.
If personal referrals don’t yield many promising results, try search engines, legal directories, and online lawyer referral tools. They’re a great starting point. But be sure to carefully research the car accident attorneys that you turn up in your searches.
Your local ABA is an excellent resource. They provide lawyer referral services, online tools and guides, and attorney directories. You should also check your attorney’s record with the ABA to rule out disciplinary issues in their past.
Once you have a short list, you can begin the elimination process. Start with their website. Look for information and experience in car accident and personal injury law. Check for reviews, testimonials, and references.
Ensure their references are valid. Make a few phone calls or send some emails to confirm that they worked with the referenced people/companies.
Be wary of over-hyped firms. Are they constantly blaring at you on TV or over the radio? Do you see their faces on benches and the sides of buses? Do they make claims about huge settlements and awards? Overpromising on the potential outcome of your case is a red flag. Plus, this bulk client approach means they likely don’t have a lot of time to devote to your case.
Awards, citations, peer recognition, and other accolades are reliable indicators of a reputable attorney. Examples include “Top 100 Trial Lawyers”, Super Lawyers®, and Martindale-Hubbell® and AV® Preeminent™ peer review ratings.
A contingency fee arrangement is standard for car accident cases. Learn what percentage they’ll get if you prevail – one-third is typical. Find out if the rate increases if you go to trial. Don’t forget to ask about extra costs and expense -- like fees for expert witnesses and depositions.
Once you’ve narrowed your choices to two or three car accident attorneys, set up an initial consultation with each of them.
The following questions will help you make your final decision:
What percentage of your practice deals with motor vehicle accident claims?
This helps you get a better idea of the firm’s focus on auto accident cases.
Will you handle my case personally?
Some law firms will tout their main partners’ skills and experience but pass many cases on to associates. Confirm with the attorney who will handle your case.
How long have you practiced in my state?
Car accident laws vary from state to state. Be sure your attorney is knowledgeable and experienced with the laws in your jurisdiction.
How long have you been practicing personal injury law?
The lawyer may have been practicing law for many years. Yet, they only added personal injury to their caseload recently.
Can you tell me a bit about your past settlements?
Very successful car accident attorneys have a track record. They’re usually happy to share general details about their successful cases, including the settlement amounts.
Have you taken auto accident cases to trial?
Most car accident claims are settled out of court. But it’s important to learn whether your lawyer will be ready to go to trial if needed.
What is the characteristic settlement range for claims like mine?
No lawyer can tell you exactly how much your claim is worth at this point. Though they should have a general idea of what you might be eligible for. With enough experience under their belt, they can probably give you a very generic range.
What resources do you have for your personal injury clients?
Serious car accident injuries require ongoing medical care. You may also need expert witnesses to prove your claim. Be sure your lawyer has access to all these resources.
How long do you think my case/claim may take?
These types of personal injury claims often take some patience. A heavy caseload might extend the time-frame. Ask the attorney how soon they can start and how much time they’ll devote to your claim.
Have you litigated defective products claims?
This only applies if a defective vehicle part contributed to your accident and injury. However, you should always ask about anything that makes your case stand out. Verify that the lawyer has worked with your type of case.
Apply these top tips to ensure that you find and hire a reputable car accident attorney who has the skills, knowledge, passion, and experience required to resolve your claim successfully.
Tommy Richardson, owner and president of the AV-Rated law firm of Friedl Richardson Trial Lawyers in Phoenix, focuses exclusively on personal injury and wrongful death cases. As a licensed attorney in the state of Arizona since 1997, Tommy has been standing up for the rights of injury victims all over Arizona. With nearly two decades of experience, Tommy is actively involved in the leadership of the legal community.