Choosing An Attorney for A Motor Vehicle Accident
Accidents are always unplanned and often cause a great deal of damage. If you have been in a car accident, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. In such instances, you do not know where and how to start to get your life back on track.
Accident attorneys are professionals experienced in handling cases involving various forms of accidents. Find a motor vehicle accident lawyer to handle yours to get the best possible outcome. But who is the best? Can you hire just any lawyer? The answer is no. Here are six factors to consider when choosing an attorney for your motor vehicle accident case:
1. Qualification and Expertise
In motor vehicle accident cases, you want to find a qualified lawyer with the experience to deal with such. These lawyers have the expertise needed to handle specific issues related to motor car accidents. For instance, they know the process of filing a case, negotiating with insurance companies, and how to get the maximum possible compensation for their clients.
Ask your Chicago car accident lawyer how many car accident cases they have handled in the past. It will give you an idea of their experience and expertise in this area. Also, know how many of them they managed to win and what was the average compensation their clients received.
2. Free Consultation
Most personal injury lawyers in Chicago offer a free initial consultation. It is an excellent opportunity to get to know the lawyer, their working style, and whether they will be a good fit for your case. During the consultation, do not hesitate to ask as many questions as you have.
For instance, you can ask about their experience handling similar cases, the cost of pursuing it, and the chances of success. Also, ask about the lawyer’s working style and whether they will be available to take your calls and update you on the proceedings. Determine their level of communication and whether they have the time to dedicate to your case.
3. Contingency Fee Arrangement
Most car accident lawyers prefer to work on a contingency fee basis. It means you will only have to pay them if they win your case and get you the compensation you deserve. It means you will have to agree on whether you will pay a percentage of the settlement amount or a fixed fee.
This fee arrangement assures you that the lawyer will be highly motivated to get the best possible outcome. Lawyers demanding an hourly rate will not likely work as efficiently to ensure success. Also, the case may take a long time, meaning you may incur more expenses than anticipated, which may even be more than the compensation you are likely to receive.
4. Their Location
The location of the lawyer’s office is a significant factor to consider. You want to find a lawyer based in Chicago, in your neighborhood, or one who serves clients in your area. Find one who understands the local laws and procedures to fast-track your case.
The lawyer should also be easily accessible whenever you need them. Go for a law firm with multiple offices in strategic locations across the county. For instance, if you live in the suburbs, look for a law firm with an office near you. In this way, you will not have to travel long distances for consultations or to attend court hearings.
5. Reviews and Testimonials
Credibility is a significant factor when looking for the best car accident lawyer in Chicago. One way of telling whether a lawyer is credible is by looking at their reviews and testimonials from past clients. You will see what other clients say about their experience working with the lawyer.
The lawyer should also have a strong track record of success. Handling 1,000 cases and winning 43 is not as impressive as winning 200 of 300. The success rate will give you an idea of the lawyer’s ability to win yours and get the best possible outcome for you. But bear in mind that other factors, like the severity of the accident and the insurance company’s position, can also affect the outcome.
6. References
Asking for references from the lawyer is an excellent way to determine whether they are the right fit for your case. The lawyer should have at least three verifiable references, preferably from clients they have represented in the past. You can find some posted on their web pages, LinkedIn recommendations, and social media.
But ensure they are realistic. When calling a referee, note how they answer your questions. They should respond promptly and be willing to share their experience working with the lawyer. If a referee is uncomfortable with your question, it may indicate something is not straight.
Summing Up
Car accidents can cause severe injuries that may lead to long-term complications. If you or a loved one has had such an accident, you should seek legal help. Although you can pursue the case yourself, a lawyer can give you a better chance of getting the best possible outcome. Consider experience, availability, location, and reviews when choosing an attorney for a motor vehicle accident. Also, ensure you understand the fee arrangement before entering an agreement.
