What Questions Should You Ask Your Car Accident Attorney?
When pursuing a car accident claim, there are several questions you will want to ask your car accident attorney. You’ll benefit from an attorney who specializes in car accident claims and knows how to handle them from beginning to end, but there is more to the client-attorney relationship. You have the right to ask all the questions you need to feel confident in your choice.
Your auto insurance provider or that of the other driver(s) involved may cover some of the costs of your accident, including your medical expenses, vehicle damage, lost wages, and so on. However, insurance companies often offer a settlement that is lower than what you are actually owed. This may leave you paying for some costs out of pocket.
When you hire a car accident attorney, they can advocate for your best interests and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, but they also need to guide you through the process. At Colling Gilbert Wright, feel free to ask your car accident attorney all of the questions necessary for you to know you’ve chosen a capable, knowledgeable advocate. Call (407) 712-7300 today for a FREE consultation.
What to Ask Your Car Accident Attorney
First, schedule a consultation with a car accident lawyer. An initial consultation should always be free. At this meeting, your case will be evaluated to ensure there is cause to pursue compensation. If an attorney tries to charge you for an initial discussion in a personal injury claim, they are not the attorney for you.
Once your consultation is scheduled, compile the details and evidence regarding your auto accident and develop a list of questions to ask your car accident attorney during the meeting. These questions are meant to help you learn more about personal injury law for car accidents and about your attorney.
Some of the questions our lawyers suggest you ask include:
- How long have you practiced personal injury law?
- Are car accidents one of your specialties?
- Are you a member of any bar associations and/or professional organizations?
- Have you received any awards during your professional career as a lawyer?
- How much experience do you have representing clients who’ve suffered catastrophic injuries?
- What is your evaluation of my case?
- What parts of my case work for us, and what parts could work against us?
- Have you tried any cases similar to this one before?
- How much time can you devote to my case?
- When will my case be filed?
- How long does it usually take to resolve a case like mine?
- Is there a likelihood that my case will go to trial?
- What is your success rate at trial?
- Who will be responsible for my case?
- What will you need from me throughout this process?
- May I speak to a past client?
- What should I reasonably expect to receive in a financial settlement or judgement?
- What are the limits on the compensation I can receive?
- Do you charge a contingency fee or hourly rate?
- If we don’t win, will I still have to pay you?
Read More: When Do You Need to Report Car Accidents in Florida?
What Characteristics Should a Car Accident Attorney Have?
When you’re dealing with the pain and financial hardship of a car accident injury, it can feel overwhelming to then have to vet a car accident attorney. The attorneys at Colling Gilbert Wright strive to put you at ease and handle the ins and outs of your case so you can use your energy to heal.
We feel that there are certain characteristics that make up a solid car accident attorney. Those qualities are:
Honesty
Your car accident attorney should be upfront and transparent with you. There is no need to waste people’s time or mislead them. We lay it all on the table and give you a sincere evaluation of your case.
Persistence
A successful car accident attorney will work long and hard to pursue justice for their client. The attorneys at Colling Gilbert Wright are committed to providing aggressive and effective representation.
Responsiveness
You need a lawyer who can tell you what is going on in your case. When your physical and financial well-being are on the line, you need to know that your lawyer will be there for you quickly and positively.
Communication
At Colling Gilbert Wright, we pride ourselves on the personal attention we give our clients. You need to have an open and honest line of communication with your attorney. The better you understand your claim, the better you can support us in fighting for your rights.
Compassion
It is vital to have a lawyer who understands the difficulties you are facing right now. A serious car accident can change your life. The physical and financial ramifications are stressful and draining. We know that, and we will do our best to help relieve some of that strain by representing you with care and consideration.
Focus
Your attorney’s goal should be to pursue just compensation in your claim. If they don’t have the ability to concentrate on your case, things will fall by the wayside. We ensure that you and your claim receive the attention they deserve.
Experience
Experience enables a car accident attorney to navigate complex legal situations with greater ease. Through our years of practice, we have gained valuable knowledge and skills, allowing us to identify and anticipate potential issues, provide more effective legal advice, and deliver more favorable outcomes for our clients.
Knowledge
The law is complex and constantly evolving, and a lawyer who lacks knowledge in their area of practice may miss crucial details, fail to provide effective legal advice, and potentially harm their clients’ claims. At Colling Gilbert Wright, we have the in-depth knowledge of legal principles and procedures necessary to navigate the complexities of the legal system and effectively advocate for our clients.
Skilled Negotiation
Negotiation skills are critical to resolving car accident claims with insurance adjusters. You need a lawyer who is skilled in negotiation to secure more favorable outcomes for their clients. We pride ourselves on being aggressive and effective negotiators with a reputation for results.
Storytelling
Having a lawyer who is a practiced storyteller is an asset because they will be able to effectively communicate in a compelling and persuasive way. We will present your perspective in a manner that resonates, humanizing your experience and making it easier for others to empathize with your situation which ultimately leads to more favorable outcomes in your claim.
Read More: When Should I Hire an Attorney After Being in an Accident?
Ask Your Car Accident Attorney at Colling Gilbert Wright
Finding a capable attorney to represent you after a car accident is essential to the success of your claim. You will need to ask the right questions to find the right advocate. Don’t be afraid to move along to the next candidate if the answers you get are not sufficient.
Our car accident attorneys serve our clients with honesty, persistence, responsiveness, and personalized attention. With ethics, professionalism, and empathy, we have a reputation for results. And we work on a contingency-fee basis, so if we don’t win, you don’t pay. Contact our attorneys today to schedule a FREE case evaluation.
At Colling Gilbert Wright, feel free to ask your car accident attorney! We are eager to answer any questions you may have regarding the pursuit of compensation for your car accident claim. We serve clients in Orlando, Florida, and nationwide.