Have you been injured in a car accident?
You may have been in a car crash that was not your fault. If this is the case, something like this may have happened: you submitted a claim with the other motorist’s insurer. You thought you would be receiving a settlement. However, talks about settlement have slowed to a standstill. You are having difficulty getting much response from this insurance company at all, much less a check for an adequate amount.
Before any of this proceeds any further, you need legal representation.
Before the other driver’s insurance company tries to trick you out of a fair settlement, get someone to fight for you. Before this company tries to ignore you and pretend this case can go away, get an attack dog in your corner.
Only a seasoned, experienced auto collision attorney can be sure to represent you with toughness and fairness. You need a lawyer that is unafraid to go up against these big insurance companies and make sure they compensate you justly for your injuries and personal trauma.
Finding an injury law attorney is easy. Any Google search will deliver more options than you probably have time for. Finding the right lawyer, however — in other words the one that will actually work for your best interest — is a bit trickier. Choosing the ideal legal counsel, especially when it comes to an attorney who specializes in automobile accidents, is absolutely essential to the success of your case. Is your potential attorney experienced? Is your potential attorney knowledgeable with current required guidelines? Has this attorney helped previous plaintiffs achieve success, either with settlements and compensation or within the courts, if necessary? Does your potential attorney have a reputation for professionalism and acquiring expert testimony? These important questions should help you navigate the search for the best fit.
Car Accident Preparation: Things to keep in mind
A car accident is an event most people try to avoid. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to avoid an accident, particularly if the crash was due to the negligence of another driver. Your best defense is to be prepared and understand what to do in the event of an accident. First, never apologize or admit fault. Take pictures and document the crash accordingly. Call 911 to obtain a police report and obtain the other party’s insurance and contact information. Seek medical attention, even if you think you are unharmed. Finally, consider contacting a lawyer that has experience with car accidents and injuries, as this will increase the chances of a better settlement.
Save Your Receipts and Documents
Do not wait to receive medical attention. If you have concerns about your health after the accident, you should receive evaluation and treatment as soon as possible. Many conditions related to automobile injuries, including whiplash, vertebrate subluxation, and concussion, will worsen if they are not treated immediately. Our attorneys can refer you to medical professionals for diagnosis and treatment, if necessary.
For every stage of your care and recovery following the accident — including the ambulance ride, the care from the EMTs or paramedics, and the emergency room visit — be sure to save all documentation. This means not just the receipts of payment, but any paperwork given to you by the medical professionals and staff that reference your physical state at the time of care, or the medical attention you receive on-site, and any written prescriptions or diagnosis for at-home care.
Will a Car Accident Attorney Cost Me Money?
One of the biggest reasons car accident victims neglect to hire an auto accident law firm is fear of cost. The truth is, most attorneys who manage auto accidents work on a contingency fee basis. This means that your lawyer will front all the costs involved in your claim so you will not be required to pay the lawyer up front. Lawyer fees are regulated by injury law, so there is a limit to how much your fees will be. Typically, your fees will be capped at a percentage of your settlement award. Having an attorney on your side often results in a significantly higher settlement, which means they end up paying for themselves and then some. Some attorneys will only take a portion of your settlement if they win your claim. There may also be small administrative fees that you could be responsible for, such as travel reimbursement and document filing. At Clements, Taylor, Butkovich, and Cohen, LPA, Co. we offer a free consultation as well as detailed explanation of our fee structure. That way, you don’t have to worry about any surprise charges or unexplained costs.
We Only Win When You Do Too
If you’ve been injured in an automobile accident, the success of your case has many determining factors, not the least of which is who you choose to represent you. Typically, you only get one chance to choose the best lawyer for your needs. Be sure to consider experience and knowledge. There may be legal fees, but consider it an investment that should ultimately pay for itself when your legal representation is the right fit for you. Since Clements, Taylor, Butkovich & Cohen, L.P.A., Co typically only takes cases on a contingency basis, we only win when you do.
Clements, Taylor, Butkovich & Cohen, L.P.A., Co. has specialized in personal injury cases since 1988. Our experienced car accident lawyers have been recognized by the U.S. News & World Report in the top tier of Best Lawyers® in Cincinnati.
The Experience Requirement of an Injury Lawyer
The experience level of your injury lawyer can make or break your case. Do they know when to settle and when to go to court? What sort of awards have they achieved for their clients? Can they refer you to a well-established medical professional for the proper diagnosis? Can you entrust them with your potentially sensitive medical records? Do they have the resources such as access to expert testimony to make your cases more viable and at a higher compensation to you? Claims adjusters know when to bluff. A good lawyer knows when to call it. Make sure he or she has experience working with cases like yours. Read their testimonials. Get recommendations. Check to make sure they have significant credentials.
Don’t Just Call Any Injury Attorney. Choose the Best One for You.
Immediately following a car accident, your mind races with questions. Your safety, your loved ones’ safety, the parties’ insurance claims, your damaged vehicle’s repair or replacement, the medical attention you and your passengers may require…. there are so many things to consider. Before calling a lawyer, however, take a moment to prepare. It is best to avoid hasty decisions in an accident situation, and it is smart to understand your many options.