Top 5 Mistakes People Make When Choosing a Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident and suffered damages, you may be thinking of hiring a lawyer. A lawyer can help you secure compensation for unexpected medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering. Choosing the right attorney is crucial as it can determine whether you receive fair compensation or settle for much less than you deserve. However, with so many lawyers, how do you avoid picking the wrong one? This article discusses five common mistakes to avoid when choosing your car accident attorney.
- Hiring a Lawyer Without Experience Handling Car Accident Cases
Just because someone is a lawyer doesn’t mean they can handle your case. While a lawyer may handle legal matters, they may not have experience with personal injury or car accident claims. Instead of having a general lawyer handle your case, find one who regularly handles auto accident cases and understands what it takes to win them. Car accidents can be complex, from establishing fault to calculating damages, so you need someone who knows how to navigate such intricacies.
- Choosing a Lawyer Without Enough Resources
To have a strong car accident case, you need compelling evidence. This may require hiring expert witnesses, getting medical records and opinions, and possibly reconstructing the accident scene. If your lawyer doesn’t have the network or resources to investigate your case correctly, you may be pressured into accepting a settlement far less than you deserve. Before hiring a lawyer, ensure their firm has the appropriate resources to ensure you get the maximum compensation possible.
- Relying on One Recommendation
While exploring a recommendation from someone who has had a positive experience with a lawyer is great, relying on only one recommendation can backfire. Every case is unique, and the lawyer you’ve been referred to might not have expertise handling cases like yours. Get multiple recommendations, check online reviews, and look into each lawyer’s background yourself. This enables you to work with a qualified and experienced lawyer to handle your case and see it through from start to finish.
- Ignoring Reviews and Testimonials
Online reviews and testimonials, especially from websites unaffiliated with the lawyer, can give you valuable insight into how a lawyer works and their case results. If you see any negative patterns in the reviews, do not ignore them. Additionally, don’t be afraid of asking potential lawyers for references. Hearing from past clients can give you firsthand insight into the kind of representation they received, helping you make an informed decision.
- Focusing Solely on Cost
Thinking about the cost of hiring a lawyer is normal, especially when dealing with medical bills and loss of income. However, you shouldn’t let price dictate your decision on the lawyer you work with. A cheaper lawyer without proper experience or negotiation skills could cost you more in the long run. Instead, focus on finding an experienced lawyer with a strong track record and ready to fight for your best interests, even if they are not the cheapest on your shortlist of potential lawyers.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact our experienced London, KY auto accident lawyer at Cessna & George Law Firm today to discuss your case and give it the best shot at success.
