In 2023, the National Safety Council says 62 million people, or approximately one in five, sought medical care for an injury.
When looking for compensation for injuries resulting from accidents, negligence, or wrongful acts, hiring a personal injury attorney is an important step.
Before you file a claim, you need to evaluate certain elements, including whether there is a statute of limitations on personal injury claims in your area. Statutes of limitations vary depending on the state and circumstances of the case, so prompt action is required.
In this article, you will learn the things you should evaluate before hiring a personal injury lawyer.
Understanding the Types of Personal Injury Cases
Before hiring a personal injury lawyer, familiarize yourself with the various types of cases that they typically handle.
Personal injury cases usually include motor vehicle accidents, slip and fall incidents, medical malpractice, and product liability. These cases involve different types of legislature, and a different strategy is used to enforce that specific set of laws.
For instance, if you sustained injuries in a workplace accident, you would need a lawyer knowledgeable in workers' compensation laws. Dog bite cases would necessitate a thorough understanding of local animal laws.
Assessing Lawyer Experience and Expertise
When looking for a lawyer, personal injury lawyer Glenn B. Fair recommends finding someone who has experience handling similar cases like yours. Each personal injury case is different, and injured plaintiffs face different challenges.
Choosing the right person to help you with a personal injury claim requires an assessment of competence and experience with cases similar to yours. Check a lawyer’s track record. How many cases have they won and what kind of injuries have they represented?
Do not be afraid to ask them about their experience and previous cases to determine their ability to handle the specifics of your case.
Lawyers who specialize in personal injury law have specialized knowledge of personal injury cases, which can help you get the best possible outcome.
Evaluating Fees and Payment Structures
When looking for a suitable personal injury lawyer to handle your case, you must first understand his or her fees and payment structure. Most attorneys work on a contingency basis, which means they must win before they are compensated. These fees usually range from 25% to 40% of the settlement.
Some lawyers require retainer fees, which are upfront payments made to lawyers in exchange for their legal services.
Don’t forget to ask their respective percentage upfront to avoid financial surprises. Inquire about any additional expenses, such as court fines and expert witness fees. Some companies will pay these amounts upfront but deduct them from your settlement amounts until you recover them.
Importance of Client Reviews and Testimonials
Reviews and client testimonials can provide insight into the type of experience the lawyer most likely provides to his clients. These reviews and testimonials provide tangible proof of a prospective lawyer's ability to handle personal injury cases.
Positive endorsements confirm the attorney's ability and dedication, whereas negative feedback highlights the risks of hiring them. Examine the reviews for a recurring theme. Any statements that are excessively positive or negative can indicate the attorney's reputation.
If they tell client stories that are relevant to your situation, the testimonials may help you make a firmer, more confident decision.
Reviews help you choose a lawyer whose skills and expertise align with your legal needs and expectations.
The Initial Consultation: What to Expect
Schedule an initial meeting with prospective personal injury lawyers to assess their abilities and client interactions firsthand. These meetings last an hour, providing ample time for the client to share their story and provide any required documentation.
During the consultation, questions will be asked to better understand the specifics of the accident, injury, and medical treatment provided in response to the injury.
Take advantage of this opportunity to determine your level of comfort with the lawyer's team and services. A comfortable professional relationship with your lawyer allows you to discuss sensitive details about your case, giving your lawyer a more complete understanding of your situation.
