How To Find The Right Type Of Accident Lawyer For My Claim

Have you been injured in an accident and aren’t sure which type of lawyer to hire? Whether you sustained injuries in a car accident, a workplace incident, or a slip-and-fall somewhere, choosing the right accident claims lawyer is crucial for getting the compensation you deserve.

Different accidents require unique expertise. For instance, if you sustained a traumatic brain injury after falling down an elevator shaft at work, hiring a lawyer who has a proven track record of winning similar cases might be more beneficial than choosing someone who focuses on another practice area.

Essentially, you should pick an attorney who specializes in your specific type of accident or injury. They can navigate your case’s specific circumstances, including your injuries, the involved parties who can be held responsible, and the relevant laws. Learn how to effectively identify the right legal representation that will provide you specifically, with the support you need at every stage of the process.

How To Find The Right Type Of Accident Claim Lawyers Near Me

In your location alone, there are probably hundreds of attorneys waiting for you to pick up the phone and give them a call. It is common to find a number of personal injury law firms and lawyers out there that promote their services. You’ll see their advertisements on television, radio, newspapers, billboards, and virtually everywhere else.

You can achieve the best possible outcome if you hire the right lawyer to navigate complex legal issues. The problem is that there are plenty of options, but how do you know if you’re talking to the right one? This comes down to narrowing your list. Here’s how:

Identify The Type Of Accident Claim You Want To File

Understanding the type of accident you experienced is a critical step in selecting a lawyer to hire. Personal injury claims require specific legal expertise. An attorney’s specialization can significantly impact how they handle your claim.

To give you an idea of what type of lawyer you need, let’s look at some accidents that are associated with personal injury claims:

Traffic Accidents

If you are involved in a car crash, the kind of lawyer you need specializes in personal injury cases arising from car accidents. Whether you sustained injuries in a sideswipe accident, a rear-end collision, or other crashes, auto accident attorneys can use their knowledge and experience to build your case from the ground up.

On the other hand, if a collision with a truck resulted in your injuries, look for a lawyer who specializes in truck accidents. This type of case can be complex due to the potential involvement of powerful trucking companies. You’re going to want to have an ally who does not back down from a challenge.

Meanwhile, rideshare accidents are known to pose a number of challenges for a victim trying to claim compensation. Ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft often have difficult insurance claims processes. There are a lot of intricacies involved that only an experienced lawyer has the skills to deal with.

Specialized lawyers are also needed for cases that may involve severe injuries, complex laws and processes, and particular pieces of evidence. Here are other examples of traffic accident cases that may require the services of a specific attorney:

Premises Liability

If you are injured in an accident that occurs on private property, you may need a premises liability lawyer. They specialize in premises liability law, which holds owners responsible for injuries that occur on their property. These include private companies, property management, homeowners, landlords, property developers, and more. It applies to a wide range of incidents, including:

• Slip-And-Falls
• Apartment Accidents
• Parking Lot Accidents
• Swimming Pool Accidents
• Amusement Park Accidents

For example, you tripped and fell over merchandise in an aisle at Walmart. In this case, you may have a premises liability claim against the retailer. The accident lawyer for your claim should be well-versed in dealing with large corporations and the applicable laws.

Dog Bite Cases

The laws governing dog bites vary from state to state. This means that you’ll need a lawyer who is an expert with local dog bite laws and cases. For example, in California, the owner is strictly liable for damages if their dog bites someone in a public place or on private property where the victim is not trespassing. This applies even if the owner did not know of the dog’s violent tendencies.

Product Liability Cases

Injured by a defective product? The right type of accident lawyer for your claim can help you understand your case thoroughly and handle the claims process efficiently. You may be able to hold the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer responsible for your injuries with the help of a good product liability attorney. However, there’s no federal law governing product liability. Depending on your location, your claim may be based on strict liability, negligence, or breach of warranty of fitness.

Product liability cases can arise from a design flaw, manufacturing error, or inadequate warning about potential risks. They require a deep understanding of consumer protection laws and product safety requirements.

Other Practice Areas For Personal Injury Law

Personal injury law is a wide field. Some injury lawyers also specialize in the following:

• Wrongful Deaths
• Fire-Related Cases
• Daycare Injuries
• Nursing Home Abuse
• Workplace Accidents

Starting Your Search For The Right Accident Claim Lawyer

Once you know what type of accident lawyer you need, you can begin your search for the right one. Take the time to list your potential candidates and compare them with each other. Follow these tips:

Ask For Referrals

Talk to your friends and family. Someone you know may have worked with a lawyer for their accident and can share their experience. Doing so not only provides you with personal recommendations from people you trust but also helps you create a solid preliminary list of attorneys to interview. As you narrow down your options, keep in mind that some accident lawyers don’t take a case that involves only property damage, such as a minor fender-bender, without any injury.

If you do have an injury, the severity of the harm you suffered can also play into your choice of lawyer. For example, some attorneys specialize in catastrophic injuries involving long-term medical needs. They will know how to precisely evaluate your case, giving you an accurate estimation of the amount you’ll need to recover from your injuries. Wrongful death cases also require unique expertise.

Search Online

The internet is also a great place to find lawyers if you know where to look. You can Google keywords like “good accident claims lawyers near me” or specific search terms like “car accident lawyer in [your location].”

Google will return the websites of local law firms. Take the time to visit each site to find details about their experience with your particular accident and their success rates. You can also explore each lawyer’s profile to learn more about their education and accomplishments.

Arash Law attorneys have individual pages that highlight their specialization, experience, and success stories. You can browse through the profiles to find who best suits your needs. One of our partners, Tina Eshghieh, Esq., for example, has extensive experience in traumatic brain injury cases.

Use Legal Directories

With the help of a lawyer directory, you can easily find, evaluate, and connect with the best local, county, or state lawyer for your specific legal needs. Online legal directories, like Avvo, FindLaw, Justia, and others, can give you useful information like:

• Lawyer Ratings
• Law School Attended
• Contact Information
• Client Reviews
• Peer Reviews

Use Your Local State Bar Page

State bars usually have a directory of registered attorneys on their website. Each one has a dedicated profile, where you can see their contact details, education, disciplinary history, and more. Doing this also helps ensure that the accident lawyer has the qualifications to handle your case.

Your state bar’s website might also have a handy specialist directory. The State Bar of California, for example, has a Certified Specialist Search tool that allows you to search by specialty and county.

Consider Local Law Firm Ads

Check advertisements in digital media, newspapers, billboards, and television for local law firms. They can be a fantastic starting point for finding excellent injury lawyers. However, keep in mind that advertisements are only a part of the picture. You have to look beyond the marketing claims and check their reputation and customer reviews.

Check With Your Prepaid Legal Services Plan

Some employers and organizations offer prepaid legal services plans that function similarly to medical insurance plans. If you have such a plan, check the in-network lawyers for accidents. However, remember that you have other options. Many law firms provide no-win, no-fee agreements, which can give you more freedom to choose.

What To Consider When Choosing The Right Type Of Lawyer

After compiling a list of accident attorneys in your area, evaluate each one to find the best fit for your needs. However, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one with so many factors to consider. To help you get started, here are some important questions to guide your decision:

Does The Lawyer Have Experience With Cases Like Yours?

Choosing a lawyer who specializes in similar cases to yours improves your chances of success. They understand the relevant laws, anticipate potential challenges, and navigate the legal process effectively. Their familiarity with specific case types means they are better prepared to strategize and achieve the best outcome.

For example, Brian Beecher, Esq., has extensive experience handling and winning complex cases against large corporations like Walmart. He has the required skills, knowledge, and confidence to represent regular people effectively against companies that have extensive resources and legal teams. This kind of specialized expertise can make a real difference in obtaining the outcome you deserve.

Do They Have A Professional Office?

A personal injury case has a lot of moving parts, with many deadlines that need to be met. A well-organized, professional office suggests the accident lawyer or law firm has systems in place to stay on top of things.

Also, consider their office locations, specifically how many offices they have and how accessible they are to you. Arash Law always keeps our potential clients in mind, which is why we have eight strategically placed offices across California. However, we also understand that sometimes travel is difficult or impossible for injured victims. That’s why we offer the option to meet wherever is most comfortable for you, whether that’s at home, in a hospital, or your office.

Does The Lawyer Communicate Clearly And Responsively?

Look for someone who responds promptly to your messages, listens attentively, and addresses your concerns thoughtfully. Find out how you can reach them: by phone, email, or text. If you have an urgent concern, will they be able to address it quickly?

Good communication can make a complex process feel manageable, especially during a frustrating time. A good accident lawyer not only keeps you informed but also simplifies complex legal terms so you understand every step, helping you feel confident and prepared to make important decisions.

What Do Clients Say About Their Service?

Client reviews can give you a sense of what it’s like to work with a particular accident attorney. Instead of solely focusing on the overall rating, pay close attention to the content of the reviews. In particular, longer reviews can give you a clearer picture of the lawyer’s approach and skills.

You can find reviews on Google or the lawyer’s website. Our injury law firm has a dedicated page for client testimonials, which includes video interviews with real people we’ve helped.

How Strong Is Their Track Record In Winning Cases?

An accident claims attorney’s track record is a strong indicator of their ability to secure favorable outcomes. While results can’t be guaranteed, a high success rate reflects their skills in building a strong claim, gathering solid evidence, and effectively negotiating or litigating for their clients.

This is an especially important consideration if your case is complex or may require going to court. For example, if your case involves a government entity, you need someone like Judd Ross Allen, Esq. He was able to secure $1,450,000 on the first day of the trial against a governmental entity for our client, who was suffering from shoulder injuries.

Are You Comfortable Working With This Lawyer?

Choosing the right accident lawyer goes beyond qualifications. A successful working relationship also relies on how comfortable you are to partner with them. When meeting an attorney, ask yourself, “Do I feel heard and understood? Do I trust them enough to share potentially sensitive details with?”

You should feel confident that they genuinely care about your case and aren’t treating you as another case number. The best personal injury lawyer for you listens to your concerns without judgment, answers questions openly, and considers your needs at every step. Someone who takes the time to make you feel comfortable, like our attorneys at Arash Law, is more likely to go above and beyond to secure the best outcome for your case.

What To Ask An Accident Lawyer In Your Initial Consultation

Most personal injury attorneys offer free initial consultations. Use this opportunity to meet individually with the lawyers on your list and ask questions that will help you determine if they are the right fit for your accident claim.

Here are some valuable questions to ask during your meeting:

Understanding Lawyers’ Fees

If you’re injured in an accident, paying for a lawyer’s fees out of pocket might not be something you can easily do. You likely have to prioritize paying for your immediate medical expenses or your household bills if you lost income due to the accident. If you’re in this situation, it might be better to look for an accident injury lawyer who can take on your case without upfront or hourly fees.

At Arash Law, for example, we work on a contingency fee basis. Our payment depends on the outcome of your case; our personal injury lawyers only get paid if we win your case. There are no fixed amounts, as the fees come as a certain percentage of your settlement or award. In most cases, lawyers might take around 33% to 40% before disbursing your compensation to you.

Before signing any contract, make sure to discuss the payment structure thoroughly with your lawyer. Ask for a breakdown of costs, expenses, deductions, and any other potential fees to avoid surprises. Your personal injury lawyer should be transparent about these details.

Why You Need The Right Type Of Accident Claims Lawyer Near You

Working with the right accident attorney can greatly influence the success of your case. Their experience and expertise allow them to steer your claim in the right direction. Although finding the best one for you can take time, it’s important to be diligent so you can confidently face the following challenges:

The Laws That Apply Differ Per Location And Case Type

The specific laws that apply to your case depend on the type of accident and where it occurred. For example, if you are injured in a dog bite case in California, the following rules must be considered:

• Statute of Limitations — You generally have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit after the accident. Failing to file within this legal timeframe may result in your case being dismissed, which would prevent you from obtaining compensation.
• Pure Comparative Negligence — Unlike other states, California operates under pure comparative negligence rules, which allow victims to file a claim even if they are up to 99% at fault. However, their payout will be reduced by their percentage of liability. Other parties will also be obligated to pay the victim an amount that corresponds to their degree of responsibility.
• Strict Liability — Under strict liability laws, the dog owner is automatically responsible for a dog bite case. The plaintiff does not have to prove they were negligent. However, there are certain exceptions. For example, if you were trespassing on the owner’s property when the bite occurred, the owner may not be held liable.

An accident lawyer who specializes in your specific situation in your area knows the ins and outs of the process better, allowing them to guide you effectively. For example, when our attorneys took on a seemingly impossible accident case, we were able to uncover third-party liability. Our client was rejected by other law firms, and if they had not come to us, they would have missed out on the $9,000,000 compensation we won for them.

Accurately Assessing Damages Is Difficult

After an accident, you may be entitled to seek damages for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more. The right lawyer for your accident claim knows how to calculate all your losses accurately. They should be familiar with the common injuries and consequences resulting from your accident. Moreover, they must be able to work with experts who can provide further insight into your medical condition and financial losses.

Insurance Claims Can Be Complicated

Your lawyer for your accident case is in charge of:

• Identifying the applicable insurance policies.
• Sending a demand letter based on the gathered facts and evidence.
• Reviewing offers and pushing for the amount you deserve.
• Guiding you through the process and ensuring you understand each step.

For this reason, you must hire a lawyer who thoroughly understands the insurance process involved in your accident. In Uber and Lyft accidents, for example, the insurance terms are different from standard auto policies.

Your eligibility for coverage is determined by the driver’s status on the app at the time of the accident. This includes whether the driver is logged out, waiting for a ride request, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting a passenger to their destination. If you’re a rideshare accident victim, you would need an attorney who knows this policy like the back of their hand.

You Need Expert Legal Representation When Filing A Lawsuit

If negotiations aren’t successful, your attorney can also file a lawsuit. This isn’t common, but it might be a good option if the other party is not willing to compromise. Ultimately, it’s your decision whether to go to trial or not. Your lawyer will guide you through the legal process, ensuring all necessary documentation is submitted promptly and accurately. The right accident lawyer near you knows the nuances of local court procedures, helping prevent unnecessary delays and increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

The Legal Process Involves Complex Steps

Once a lawsuit is filed, your lawyer will get to work right away. Here’s how the process usually goes:

• Discovery — This involves two types: written affidavits and oral depositions. During this stage, both sides exchange evidence, documents, and witness testimonies. Your lawyer’s understanding of your case helps ensure all relevant information is gathered to build a solid case.
• Mediation or Arbitration — These dispute resolution methods allow for potential settlements outside of court, removing the need to proceed to trial. A knowledgeable lawyer can best represent your interests and negotiate with the other parties.
• Trial — Should the case proceed to trial, the right type of accident lawyer can present a solid case and anticipate any arguments and counterarguments that the other party might use against you.

Importance Of Hiring The Best Accident Lawyer For You

Selecting the right type of attorney for your accident claim is essential, but equally important is finding one with the skill and dedication to advocate effectively on your behalf. A strong personal injury lawyer not only brings legal expertise but also the skills to protect you from insurance companies that may try to undermine or delay your claim.

A personal injury attorney can also help with your immediate financial concerns. For instance, at our law firm, we help our clients get medical liens, allowing them to receive treatment without upfront payment. Our team also negotiates with medical providers to reduce their medical bills.

With the right accident lawyer on your side, you can focus on your recovery while knowing that your case is in good hands.

When To Find A Lawyer For Your Accident

The statute of limitations is the timeframe within which you are allowed to file a lawsuit after an accident, which can vary per state. Essentially, you have a limited amount of time from the date of the incident to take legal action against the person responsible. Additionally, different types of legal cases have different time limits. These are the statutes of limitations for actions involving accidents in California:

• Personal Injury — The two-year deadline starts on the date when the injury occurred or was discovered.
• Wrongful Death — The two-year time limit typically begins on the date of the individual’s death.
• Property Damage — For accidents resulting only in property damage, the statute of limitations is typically three years.

Some exceptions might apply, depending on state laws. Consult an accident lawyer near you as soon as possible to know your specific deadlines. Failure to file a lawsuit within the allowed timeframes may result in the dismissal of your claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind Of Lawyer Do I Need If I Want To Sue Someone For An Accident?

Look for an attorney specializing in accident litigation. They can prepare the necessary documents on your behalf, file paperwork within the prescribed deadlines, and represent you in court. In some situations, they may resolve your case during mediation, which means you don’t have to go to trial.

However, keep in mind that you don’t necessarily have to file a lawsuit to get monetary reparation from the responsible party. Your attorney can advise you on the best route to take to achieve your goals.

How Do You Know If Someone Is A Good Accident Lawyer?

A competent accident claims lawyer combines legal expertise with compassionate guidance. The right lawyer considers your needs and goals when crafting a strategy and is transparent about your options. They make sure you have the tools and information you need to make the right decision for your future. Even during your first meeting, you can already tell someone is a good lawyer if they take the time to explain your rights and options.

According to one of our clients, most of the attorneys they’ve dealt with “don’t take the time to let you know the details about your own case and how it’s going.” Yet, Arash Khorsandi, Esq., the founder and owner of our law firm, stood out because of his dedication to clear and constant communication. Our attorneys have the same principle when dealing with clients, treating them as family rather than just another case file.

How Do Most People Find Lawyers?

According to a 2022 study, most people find lawyers through a Google search. A legal marketing firm interviewed 500 people and asked what they would do to find an attorney after a car accident. About 64% of the respondents would go on Google, while 30% said they would ask for a referral from their friend, family member, or coworker. The rest would use resources like the Yellow Book, Facebook, Yelp, LinkedIn, and other search engines.

Should I Get A Lawyer For An Accident That Was Partly My Fault?

Even if you believe you were partially at fault for an accident, it is still wise to consult with an injury lawyer. In states that follow comparative negligence rules, you can still receive compensation even if you share some of the blame. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your level of fault. For example, if you are found to be 30% responsible, you would still be entitled to 70% of your total damages.

A lawyer can help evaluate your case, gather evidence, and protect your rights. They can investigate whether you genuinely share some responsibility or if the other parties are unfairly trying to blame you.

Can I Ask An Accident Lawyer How Much My Case Is Worth?

Feel free to ask your accident lawyer about the potential value of your case. While they can’t give you an exact figure, they can offer an estimate based on the specifics of your case and their experience with similar cases. Your attorney can explain how factors like your injuries, the circumstances of the accident, and insurance coverage can affect the settlement.

Be wary of accident lawyers who make promises about the outcome. Arriving at an accurate estimate can take time, and personal injury cases are often unpredictable. No one can guarantee a specific result.

How Much Is My Accident Claim Worth?

It’s difficult to assess your case value without diving deep into the circumstances of the accident and your injuries. To give you an idea, here are some of our most noteworthy case results:

• $41,950,000 — Our attorneys won a case against Walmart for our clients who were attacked with a baseball bat in one of the retailer’s stores.
• $18,700,000 — After an 18-year-old client was severely injured while operating machinery on a farm, the property owner refused to take responsibility. Nonetheless, our team secured a victory in arbitration.
• $14,000,000 — Even when the other parties tried hard to minimize their liability, our attorneys were able to win the maximum policy limit for an injured factory worker.
• $12,000,000 — A 74-year-old was struck while crossing the street, resulting in severe injuries. Arash Law secured the money she needed to support her long road to recovery.
• $10,000,000 — Our client was run over by a speeding vehicle and suffered serious injuries. We secured a significant settlement and top medical care to help him heal.
• $9,855,000 — Our personal injury and workers’ compensation teams worked together to deliver outstanding results five days before the trial.
• $6,000,000 — A drunk driver caused a head-on collision on a two-lane highway, resulting in the tragic death of our client’s wife. Our attorneys fought for the worth of this huge loss and won a substantial amount.
• $4,300,000 — Arash Law secured a settlement that helps ensure our client will be able to shoulder his treatment costs for his brain injury and orthopedic traumas.

How Long Do Most Accident Claims Take To Settle?

Personal injury claims typically take anywhere from a few months to over two years to settle. Attorneys specializing in personal injury cases often cannot provide a specific timeframe because the duration depends largely on the complexity of the case and the actions of the parties involved. Additionally, it is important to allow enough time to fully understand the extent of your injuries and how they affect your life.

When evaluating accident claim lawyers, ask how quickly they have resolved similar claims in the past, as this can provide useful insight. However, keep in mind that speed is not the only factor to consider; the results they achieve are equally important.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire Accident Claims Lawyers Near Me?

Hiring accident attorneys may not cost you anything upfront if they offer contingency fee-based services. This means that they only get paid if your case is successful, and their fee comes out of the settlement you receive. You don’t have to dip into your savings or choose between getting treatment and legal representation. If you don’t receive compensation, you don’t have to pay your lawyer for their time.

Injured In An Accident? Contact Our Lawyers To Get The Legal Help You Need

Regardless of the type of accident you were involved in, you must get a lawyer who knows how to get you the compensation you deserve. Our accident attorneys specialize in various types of personal injury cases, ensuring you have the guidance and legal expertise needed to navigate the specific process of your claim.

Arash Law is regarded as one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California. We’ve won over $500 million for our clients. Our award-winning accident claims attorneys are just as dedicated to pursuing the highest possible settlement for your case. Learn more about how we can help you by getting in touch with our law firm. Call (888) 488-1391 for a free, no-obligation consultation.