When Is It Time To Hire A Lawyer For Your Car Accident Claim?
Being involved in a Los Angeles auto accident can be a frightening and intimidating experience, especially if you or your loved one were injured in the accident. You may have questions about your legal claim, concerns regarding the insurance company's treatment of you, and/or medical bills piling up. What is your next step?
Isn't the Insurance Company on My Side?
With all the money that you pay in monthly premiums, it is reasonable to assume that your insurance company is on your side. Unfortunately, that is unlikely to be the case. Even if your insurance claims adjuster appears to have your best interest at heart, the truth of the matter is that they are employed by the insurance companies and their job is to minimize the payouts the insurance company has to give. You may have a legal claim worth millions, but without an experienced accident attorney fighting for you, it is unlikely your insurance company will give you the compensation your injuries deserve.
With so many lawyers in Los Angeles, how do you know which one is the right one for you? Read on for a few tips meant to help you decide who to choose to represent you in your car accident claim.
1. Hire a lawyer who is an expert in personal injury cases
When hiring a lawyer for your auto accident claim, you will want to make sure you hire a personal injury attorney experienced in handling car accident claims. Lawyers can specialize in various fields and you will want to hire one who knows how to handle insurance companies.
2. Check Yelp and other review sites
Avvo, Yelp and Google can be great ways to find or vet a highly rated injury attorney and to learn what past clients have to say about the attorney's skills. Make sure to thoroughly read the reviews to get a good sense of the attorney and their legal team.
3. Discuss fees
Most personal injury lawyers will work with you on a contingency basis. This means that they will not charge you a fee to retain their services and you will only have to pay if you win. Typical contingency fees range from 33%-40% plus medical bill expenses, but discuss your arrangement with your lawyer.
4. Make sure you feel comfortable with your lawyer
You will spend a lot of time and energy talking to and working with your auto accident attorney -- you will want to be sure that you get along. A good lawyer will show compassion, understanding, and empathy with your situation.
5. Review their recent settlements
Successful attorneys will have no problems sharing their results with you and likely have many of their case results listed on their website. You will want to work with an attorney who has won or settled car accident cases and understands the rules of the game, including how to deal with both insurance companies and any other issues that come your way.
For a free, no obligation consultation with our experienced auto accident attorneys, contact the Ghozland Law Firm today.
