Hiring a car accident lawyer is an overwhelming process, especially if you’ve never worked with an attorney before. Avoid these common pitfalls when hiring a car accident attorney, so you find the right legal representation after an auto collision. The stress of dealing with a car accident motivates you to hire the first attorney you find just to get it over with. The lawyer you choose will greatly impact the outcome of your case, so it’s crucial not to rush this important decision. Take the time to research multiple attorneys and firms before deciding. The right car accident lawyer for you might not be readily available.
Focusing on the price
It’s natural to want to save money, especially after an expensive collision. A discount attorney charging rock-bottom prices may not offer the strongest representation. Make sure to balance price and quality when evaluating car accident lawyers. Ask about their experience, success record, and overall reputation, not just their fees. Any car accident attorney says they’re qualified, but you shouldn’t take their word for it. Always verify references by speaking with former clients about their experiences. How responsive was the lawyer during their case? Were they satisfied with the outcome? Checking references helps you determine if their reputation is accurate.
Trying DIY representation
Although it may seem convenient to represent yourself to save legal fees, non-lawyers lack the expertise needed to handle common causes of car accidents in San Antonio. Some complicated procedures and loopholes experienced lawyers are trained to navigate. Without professional representation, your claim will likely end poorly. After a traumatic collision, many people want to get their claim over with and select the first car accident lawyer they find. Hiring in haste often leads to disappointment down the road. Take your time vetting multiple attorneys so you end up with proper representation.
Choosing the first offer
If an insurance company approaches you with a quick settlement offer after your crash, don’t accept it without consulting your lawyer first. The first offer is rarely the best. Your lawyer leverages their negotiating skills to pursue the compensation you deserve. Hear them out before settling. For your lawyer to build the strongest case possible, they need to understand the full details surrounding the accident. Holding back information or lying out of embarrassment sabotages your claim later on. Be 100% honest with your attorney so they know how to represent you best.
Ignoring their specialty
Every attorney has a specialty, so choose one experienced with San Antonio Car Accident Lawyer and personal injury cases. Hiring a real estate or contract law attorney might save you money, but they won’t have the skills and knowledge necessary to win your case. The right specialty matters. Before hiring a lawyer, you should thoroughly understand their fee structure and payment expectations. Will they take a percentage of your final settlement? Will you pay an hourly rate? When will you owe payments? Never sign a contract until all financial details are crystal clear. With so much on the line after a car accident, you need to make the right choice when hiring an attorney.
