How to Find the Best Car Accident Lawyer

A car accident may force you to put your life on hold. Depending upon the severity of your injuries, there’s a good chance you’ll be forced to take time off from work or miss school. It often takes quite a while to recover from the physical and emotional trauma. Furthermore, medical bills can begin to pile up quickly. If another driver is at fault, you’ll need to file a claim with the person’s insurance company in order to be fairly compensated.

Unfortunately, dealing with an insurance company isn’t usually a walk in the park. The provider will try to pay you as little money as possible, or even completely reject your claim. The best approach is for you to seek professional legal representation. Here’s how to find a top car accident lawyer.

Referrals

When searching for a reputable auto accident lawyer, it’s a good idea to get referrals from someone who has been in the same situation. First, reach out to your family and friends. Loved ones won’t hesitate to recommend a credible lawyer who’ve they’ve used in the past. Also, consult other attorneys you've worked with on different matters. There’s a high probability they’ll know of a proven candidate who specializes in auto accident cases.

Lawyer referral services can be a big help as well. However, make sure the referral service participates in the American Bar Association-sponsored certification program. To be eligible for the program, a lawyer must meet certain quality standards set by the ABA. The extra peace of mind is well worth it.

Do Background Checks Online

People who are looking for a top car accident lawyer can begin their search right from home. With so much information now being available on the web, anyone with an internet connection can perform background checks online. After finding a potential lawyer, be sure to look them up on local state bar associations. This helps verify if they have attained the required academic qualifications.

You should also take a look at online reviews posted by previous clients. Take note of any obvious red flags. Steer clear of lawyers who are consistently criticized for being unprofessional. Good communication skills are just as crucial. A great lawyer recognizes the importance of staying in contact with their client.

Seek Experience

Try to avoid hiring someone who is fresh out of law school. It takes time for a new graduate to truly learn the ropes. Success requires a great deal of practice in the real world.

Experience definitely matters when it comes to a car accident case. Seasoned auto accident lawyers know what to expect ahead of time. When interacting with the other driver’s insurance company, a veteran will be prepared for every possible challenge. Nothing beats having an attorney who has a reputation for getting high-payout results. They won't hesitate to take the case to trial if necessary.

Understand the Fees

Before hiring a lawyer, have a full understanding of their legal fees. A top car accident lawyer will charge a percentage of a successful settlement package. There’s no need to pay anything in advance. This is a major benefit for people who have already started to experience the financial effects of a car accident.

Once you know the fees, you can then compare lawyers to find out who will get you the most bang for the buck. However, never choose a lawyer based solely on their fees. Although a particular law firm may save you a little money, it tracks record of success may not be as solid.