When to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer
Working with a personal injury lawyer can be very beneficial if you or a loved one was injured in an accident due to negligence. Personal injury lawyers are specialized in tort law, which covers most civil lawsuits. Negligence, intentional harm, and strict liability are the three main categories of tort law.
If you suffered an injury in a motor vehicle or workplace accident, you may be able to recover financial compensation from the at-fault party for your medical bills and lost income. While not all accidents may warrant legal representation, if fault is disputed or you have suffered serious injuries, contacting a lawyer can help immensely.
The Santa Ana personal injury attorneys at Riverview Accident Lawyers can help you file a claim and seek justice. Call our personal injury law firm today for a free case review at (657) 655-6045.
Here are eight things you should know before hiring a personal injury lawyer in California:
1. Do Your Research
There are thousands of personal injury law firms across California. However, keep in mind that many law firms specialize in either medical malpractice, vehicle accidents, or class action lawsuits. If you were injured in a car accident, find an attorney who focuses on car accidents.
Do your research online to look at the lawyer’s reviews, case wins, and client testimonials. Checking reputable sources like Avvo, Justia, and Super Lawyers can provide insights into the lawyer’s expertise and success rate. It’s also beneficial to consult multiple attorneys to compare their approaches and fees. Choosing a lawyer with a strong track record in car accident cases increases your chances of a favorable outcome.
2. Ask For Referrals
Asking for a referral from a family member, friend, or coworker can be invaluable. Personal recommendations often come from trusted sources with firsthand experience with the attorney’s services. If no one you know has worked with a personal injury attorney before, do your due diligence and schedule free consultations with different lawyers. You can find out a lot about a law firm during the free case review.
3. Know About Their Fee Structure
Most personal injury lawyers in Orange County, CA, get paid on a contingency basis. This means they only get paid a percentage of your settlement if you win. It’s crucial to understand their specific percentage and any other potential fees before signing a contract.
If your lawyer does not mention their fees during the free consultation, do not hesitate to ask. You want to have a crystal clear understanding before you agree to work with them.
4. Understand the Statute of Limitations
Unfortunately, if your accident was more than two years ago, you will not be able to file a personal injury lawsuit. Personal injury cases are bound by a strict two-year time limit, and failure to file within this time will result in the dismissal of your case.
While there are some exceptions, it is best to hire a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Waiting can hurt your chances of a successful claim, as evidence may be lost. Witnesses can also forget details of the accident, so take legal action as quickly as you can.
5. Look For Experience
Experience is a crucial factor when selecting a personal injury lawyer. Ensure that the attorney has extensive experience handling cases similar to yours. An experienced personal injury lawyer is more likely to navigate the complexities of your case effectively and secure a favorable outcome.
Your lawyer should also possess medical and legal knowledge, enabling them to understand the intricacies of your injuries and how they impact your case.
6. Realize That a Personal Injury Claim Takes Time
Understand that the personal injury claims process can take time to resolve, especially when severe injuries are involved. Be prepared for a potentially lengthy legal process, depending on how negotiations go with the other party’s insurance company. During the negotiation process, remember to follow your medical treatment.
Discuss the expected timeline and any steps you can take to expedite the process openly and honestly with your experienced personal injury attorney.
7. Ensure Effective Communication
Effective communication with your attorney is critical to a successful case. Ensure that the lawyer you choose is responsive and keeps you informed about the progress of your case. Good communication helps build trust and ensures you are aware of significant developments.
Have clear expectations and discuss which method is best for you to contact your lawyer, either by phone, email or in person.
8. Don’t Be Discouraged With the Insurance Company
When you file a personal injury claim, you essentially file an insurance claim with the other party’s insurance company. You are typically not suing the person directly. Insurance adjusters are notoriously difficult to work with, and they will often try to get many accident victims to settle for far less than their case is worth. However, don’t be discouraged.
Having a personal injury lawyer by your side can level the playing field and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Personal Injury Lawyers in Santa Ana, CA
Finding the right personal injury lawyer can take time, but when you do, you will have a tireless advocate fighting on your behalf. The personal injury attorneys at Riverview Accident Lawyers have extensive experience settling cases for injured victims of motor vehicle crashes and work-related accidents. When you need an experienced attorney to fight for you, our legal team has your back.
To schedule a free consultation, all you need to do is call us. We will listen to you and find the best possible solution for your situation. When we make a commitment to represent you, we will work tirelessly to obtain a successful outcome. Let us know how we can help you today.