Top 6 questions to ask a car accident attorney
If you were hurt in a crash, you’ve probably noticed certain parties trying to deflect and get you off their back. The insurance company will likely try to deny your claim, and the other driver(s) could pull anything to put the blame on you. A car accident lawyer can help you avoid these pitfalls, but how do you know which attorney is right for you in your unique circumstances?
Asking a California car accident lawyer the following questions can help you make an informed decision about choosing the best legal representative for your needs. Keep reading to discover the best questions to ask your car accident lawyer, then call Ernst Law Group at (805) 541-0300 to schedule your free consultation.
The first question to ask a car accident attorney: Have you handled cases like mine before?
This is an important question to ask because it will give you a good idea of the attorney’s experience and whether or not they will be able to help you. The more experience an attorney has with cases that closely resemble yours, the stronger resources they can rely on, and the greater your chances of securing full compensation.
You should also ask about the attorney’s certifications and membership in organizations such as the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA). By asking these questions, you can better understand whether the lawyer is a good fit for your needs.
2. How long have you practiced law?
When you’re in a car accident, one thing you want to do is ask the lawyer how long they’ve been practicing. Not all lawyers are created equal, and you want to make sure you get the best representation possible. So here are a few things to remember when asking your lawyer this question.
First, years of experience do not necessarily mean better results. Many factors go into being a successful lawyer, including continuing education, working with experienced colleagues, and more.
Second, even if a lawyer has been practicing for many years, that doesn’t mean they have experience with car accidents specifically. Make sure to ask your lawyer about their experience with cases like yours. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for referrals from your lawyer.
In addition, when looking for a car accident lawyer, you want to ensure that the attorney is experienced and qualified. One way to do this is by asking how long they’ve been practicing law.
3. What is your success rate?
This is one of the most important questions you can ask an attorney. Just because an attorney takes a lot of cases doesn’t mean they win a lot of cases. If you’re trying to hire a firm that has a high success rate, you’ll be more likely to have a favorable outcome in your case.
4. How much will this cost me?
It is a common question asked by accident victims. Knowing how much your case will cost before looking for a lawyer is important. This information can help you prevent any surprises later on.
If you don’t know what your case will cost, it’s best to research the average costs associated with a possible lawsuit. Then consult with your attorney about whether or not they will take the case.
5. What are the next steps?
Ask about your options when pressing charges or submitting a claim for property damage or personal injury. It’s also important to know if you can make an insurance claim or if you might need representation from an attorney.
Moreover, an experienced attorney knows there aren’t always just two options: plaintiff or defendant. There might be more than two parties involved, and some lawyers handle these cases better than others.
For example, if a vehicle manufacturer is found at fault for an accident, they would hire an attorney specializing in product liability cases rather than personal injury claims. Additionally, keep in mind that every state has different rules and regulations.
6. Do you have any experience with my insurance company?
It’s important to understand that your insurance company is not your friend. They have their interests and priorities, which may not match yours. They are also liable for paying any damages awarded at trial.
To find an attorney with experience dealing with your insurance company, ask your lawyer to provide you with a list of previous cases involving your insurance carrier. This will give you valuable information on what to expect during negotiations and litigation.
Ready to get started? We’re ready to help.
When you get involved in a car accident, you may feel overwhelmed. You might want to hire an attorney for justice. In that scenario, hire the right one for your case. It can get done by asking questions and by stating your requirements.
Ernst Law Group is proud to have some of the most experienced California car accident attorneys in the state. We’re standing by ready to answer any additional questions you may have, so call (805) 541-0300.