Did you know that car accidents are the leading cause of severe injuries and death worldwide? You might consider hiring a lawyer if you’ve been in a car accident.
Since there are various lawyers, it can feel challenging to pick the right one. The good news is that there’s hope. Read this guide on the questions to ask before hiring a car accident attorney today.
Table of Contents
1. What Are Your Rates?
Consider your budget when hiring Greenleaf Law Group or other attorneys. Find out if they work on contingency.
This means that you don’t pay unless they win the case. You’ll also receive a settlement. The lawyer will receive a percentage of the settlement.
The percentage will vary based on the car accident lawyer. When hiring an attorney, find out if there are additional fees. Find out the entire payment process before hiring them.
2. Who Will Handle My Claim?
Find out who will be handling your case. Law firms could appoint senior partners to handle consultations and interviews for your car wreck.
It’s best to speak with the person handling your case. You’ll also want to ensure that they have time for your case. Find out how many other cases they’re currently working on.
3. How Long Will My Case Take?
Each case is unique, but a lawyer could give you a rough timeline. You’ll want to ensure they resolve it fast, but without rushing.
You’ll also want to find out if you have a strong case. It’s important that your lawyer can prove that the other person is at fault.
4. What’s Your Experience With This Type of Case?
Don’t assume that lawyers have experience with this type of case.
Since you’re the one hiring, make sure that you talk to the lawyer and not the paralegal. Ask them about past cases and how they went.
5. What Next Steps Should I Take?
Seek medical care after a car accident. Keep proof of all receipts and care.
Doctors can provide a prognosis and list physical damages due to the accident. This is helpful when dealing with the other party’s insurance company.
Keep pictures from the accident and show them to the lawyer. Obtain a police report if you haven’t.
Speak with your lawyer about upcoming deadlines and your state’s statute. This could include the paperwork that your lawyer will file on your behalf.
6. How Often Will You Keep Me Up to Date?
Find out whether they’ll contact you by phone or email. Go over your preferred method of communication.
Then, ask if they have someone available 24/7 for questions you might have.
7. What Damages Can I Receive Compensation For?
Depending on your state, compensation could vary. Some states allow no-fault insurance.
Drivers will need to pay for their medical bills. At-fault cases mean that the person at fault will pay for the medical expenses.
Compensation could include damages from pain, lost wages, medical expenses, and property damage. Whether you have permanent scarring or a disability, you could receive compensation.
You could receive compensation if you’re unable to work due to an injury. A damaged car could result in compensation as well.
You could also receive money for hospital stays, ambulance rides, or emergency room visits. It could include future medical care as well.
Negligence could include:
- Hazardous roads
- Aggressive driving
- Violating traffic laws
- Drunk driving
- Defective auto parts
- Distracted driving
8. What’s Your Plan for My Case?
Some lawyers are familiar with the civil court or insurance company. They can let you know their plans in advance.
Plans could change. Have them keep you in the loop for possible plans and changes.
Some factors could include:
- The insurance companies
- The extent of your injuries
- If there are multiple liable parties
- The value of your claim
9. How Do I Pay For Medical Bills in the Meantime?
Cases could be in pending status for a while. Find out about MedPay, a form of medical payment coverage.
It can be part of your auto insurance policy. They could pay out-of-pocket costs and copays even if someone else is at fault.
Contingency-Based Medical Billing
There’s also contingency-based medical billing. Your lawyer could set you up with providers that will have your medical bills contingent on your pending settlement.
Supplemental Insurance
Some companies offer supplemental insurance that provides a certain amount of coverage for medical emergencies. They often only cost a few dollars a month.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are another option if your providers don’t accept contingency-based funding and you don’t have insurance coverage. You can keep track of payments to avoid late fees. Once you receive a settlement, you can pay off the bill.
Personal Injury Protection
Some states require personal injury protection. This no-fault insurance will cover medical expenses whether you’re at fault or not.
10. What About Future Expenses?
While determining future expenses can be tough, lawyers consult medical experts to approximate costs. You might be able to receive compensation in advance.
Once you pay current expenses, you’ll be able to put that money toward future expenses. Plan future settlement funds to make sure that you’ll have enough.
What to Ask Your Car Accident Attorney
After exploring this guide, you should know what to ask your car accident attorney. Ask them multiple questions about their credentials to ensure they’re the right fit. See if they offer a free consultation to review your case and see your options.
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