An average of six million car accidents occur in the country every year. These accidents cause about 3 million injuries annually. 2 million drivers even develop permanent injuries as a result of their crashes.
Those injuries can lead to expensive medical bills or cause you to miss work.
If you were in a car accident, you can make a claim and get the compensation you deserve. An experienced accident claim lawyer can maximize your claim. That way, you can cover your medical expenses or missed workdays.
Here are the 10 tips you need to find the best lawyer for car accident claims in California. With these tips, you can find a lawyer who will maximize your claim to cover your losses.
Start your search with these 10 tips!
1. Ask Around for Referrals
The first step to finding the best lawyer for your car accident injury claim is to ask around. Do you have a friend, family member, or coworker who went through the process before? They might have a recommendation you can use to start your search.
Their personal experience with a specific lawyer can help you gain a more in-depth understanding of the lawyer’s abilities.
Ask about their entire experience from start to finish. Here are a few questions you can ask to get a full picture:
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What was their first impression of the lawyer?
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Would they recommend the same lawyer, or do they regret working with them?
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What complications did they face during the case?
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Were they kept informed throughout the case?
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Do they believe the case was handled with their best interest in mind?
Getting a lawyer for a car accident case does not have to feel like a tedious process. Speaking with friends or family members you trust can make it a lot easier. Learn from their past experience.
Ask as much as you can about the process they went through. That way, you are starting your search off with as much information as possible.
2. Narrow Down Your Search
Once you have a list, it is time to narrow it down. First, consider your expectations from the lawyer.
For example, did you lose a loved one as a result of the accident? Are you missing work due to an injury? How much compensation are you hoping to gain? Make a list of your expectations. You can also list the qualities you are looking for in a lawyer or law firm. For example, does the law firm specialize in car accident cases? Do they have a dedicated team of car accident compensation lawyers?
Determine how many lawyers are on staff, as well as their experience. Check to see if the lawyers or law firms have received awards or gained leadership roles in local organizations.
Gathering this information can tell you a lot about a lawyer or law firm’s experience and expertise.
An award-winning lawyer is well-recognized by their peers. If they maintain a leadership role, it is likely they are respected by other lawyers in California.
See if they have good judicial connections, too. Does the lawyer you are researching participate in the local bar association? Prioritizing these factors can help narrow down your search.
3. Look Online
If friends and family members were not able to recommend someone, that’s okay. You can find the best lawyer for car accident claims in California online.
Try checking online directors for a list of auto accident lawyers in the area. Make sure they specialize in accident cases. That way, they have the experience and expertise that will strengthen your case.
4. Check Their Standing
Once you have a list of lawyers, check their bar association standing. Make sure they are a member of your local bar association. If not, you might want to cross them off your list.
Checking the local bar association can help you find other lawyers to research, too.
5. Choose An Experienced Attorney
If you want to find the top accident lawyers in the area, make sure they are experienced. Their experience should reflect the specifics of your case.
For example, did someone die in the accident? If so, you might want to find a lawyer experienced with wrongful death cases. If you were injured, look for an accident claim lawyer who has worked on similar cases.
Your case may be unique. Look for a lawyer who has the experience to match.
Choosing an experienced lawyer will give you the peace of mind that they can handle your case.
6. Determine Who Will Work Your Case
If you contact a law firm, know the first person you speak with will not necessarily become your primary contact. Make sure to determine who will work on your case.
Then, use the tips above to determine the lawyer’s experience.
Are they a less experienced associate or a partner? Do they lack experience? If so, ask who will supervise the attorney during your case.
7. Compare Wins And Losses
Once you have a list of experienced attorneys, determine their track record. How many cases have they won? Make sure these are specifically auto accident cases.
Take a look at how many cases they have settled, too. If they settle more cases than they win, they are likely more concerned about their track record than your compensation.
8. Read The Reviews
Make sure the lawyer you are researching has a strong reputation. Do they help people in the community? Are they known for their ethics?
Check online for reviews and testimonials. You can learn a lot about accident claim lawyers based on their previous clients.
9. Understand The Cost
Road crashes cost $518 billion globally. Before you sign a contract, make sure you understand the fees.
Some lawyers will not request you pay unless they win your case. Review the contract and understand the text before you sign your name.
10. Trust Your Instincts
Take the time to speak with the lawyers on your list in person or over the phone. Are they strong communicators? You will want someone who can communicate their thoughts concisely during your case.
Then, trust your instincts. Review your notes before making your decision.
Make A Claim: Find The Best Lawyer For Your Car Accident Injury Claim
Ready to make your case? With these 10 tips, you can find the best lawyer for your car accident injury claim in California. Their experience and expertise will help you maximize the compensation you receive.
Do not wait to file your claim. Contact us today for a free consultation regarding your case.
