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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, working with an accident claims lawyer can help you understand the claims process and determine what compensation you may legally seek.
Different accidents require specific legal knowledge. For instance, if you sustained a traumatic brain injury after falling down an elevator shaft at work, hiring a lawyer who has already handled TBI or workplace accident cases might be more beneficial than choosing someone who focuses on another practice area.
Essentially, you should pick an attorney who focuses on managing claims involving your specific type of accident or injury. They can navigate your case’s specific circumstances, including your injuries, the involved parties who may be 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.
The right lawyer for your case can help you navigate complex legal issues as you pursue compensation. 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 knowledge. An attorney’s experience 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 injured in a car crash, you need dedicated car accident lawyers who specifically handle personal injury cases arising from these road incidents. 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 has experience handling truck accidents. This type of case can be complex due to the potential involvement of multiple at-fault parties, such as larger trucking companies. You’re going to want to have an advocate who does not back down from a challenge.
Meanwhile, rideshare accidents are known to pose a number of challenges for a victim trying to seek compensation. Ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft often have difficult insurance claims processes. There are a lot of intricacies involved that an experienced lawyer has the skills to deal with.
Lawyers with relevant experience may be beneficial 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:
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Commercial Vehicle Accidents
- DUI Victim Cases
- Hit-And-Run Injuries
- Bicycle Accidents
- Pedestrian Accidents
Premises Liability
If you are injured in an accident that occurs on private property, you may need a premises liability lawyer. They focus their practice on 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 can help if they have experience 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 experienced with local dog bite laws and cases. For example, in California, the owner is generally 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 guide you through the claims process. You may be able to hold the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer responsible for your injuries. 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. In such cases, you can seek help from a competent product liability attorney.
Other Practice Areas For Personal Injury Law
Personal injury law is a wide field. Some injury lawyers also handle cases that focus on 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 have experience handling 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 may need to recover from your injuries. Wrongful death cases also require unique legal experience.
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 the services they offer. 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 focus practice area, experience, and background. You can browse through the profiles to find who best suits your needs. One of our partners, Tina Eshghieh, Esq., for example, has years of experience in practicing 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 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 directory. The State Bar of California, for example, has an Attorney Search tool that allows you to search by practice area 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 experienced 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 handles similar cases can help you receive more applicable guidance for your claim. They understand the relevant laws, anticipate potential challenges, and navigate the claims process accordingly. Their familiarity with specific case types means they are better prepared to strategize how you pursue compensation.
For example, Brian Beecher, Esq., has years of experience handling complex cases against large corporations like Walmart. He has the required skills, knowledge, and dedication to represent regular people against companies that have extensive resources and legal teams. This kind of focused representation can help clients handle more challenging cases, as the right lawyer will advocate for their interests throughout the process.
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 how accessible they are to you, such as how many offices they have or how easy it is to meet with them. Arash Law always keeps our potential clients in mind, which is why we are ready to conduct consultations both in our office and throughout California. We 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 by appointment, whether that’s at home, in a hospital, or in 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.
What Does Their Track Record Look Like?
An accident claims attorney’s track record is a strong indicator of their ability to pursue compensation for clients. While results can’t be guaranteed, an attorney’s case history reflects their skills in building a well-supported claim, gathering solid evidence, and negotiating or litigating for their clients.
This is an especially important consideration if your case is complex or may require going to court. In this case, a track record could help you decide whether to consult a senior trial attorney, like Arash Law’s very own Judd Ross Allen, Esq.
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 partnering with them. When meeting an attorney, ask yourself, “Do I feel heard and understood? Am I comfortable enough to share potentially sensitive details with them?”
You should feel 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 is more likely to demonstrate commitment to client service.
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:
- Have you ever dealt with a case like mine before?
- How did you handle similar cases in the past?
- How will you approach mine?
- Which law school did you go to?
- How long have you been practicing this area of law?
- Have you gone to court for any case?
- What are the potential outcomes and challenges of my case?
- How will you communicate with me throughout the case?
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, we work on a contingency fee basis. Our payment depends on the outcome of the case; our personal injury lawyers only get paid if clients obtain compensation. There are no fixed amounts, as the fees come as a certain percentage of the final settlement or award. Lawyers discuss the exact percentage with clients during the onboarding process. If a case is successful, they’ll take their share before disbursing compensation to them. However, clients may still be charged some other case-related costs, regardless of a claim’s outcome.
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 impact your case. Their experience and familiarity with similar cases 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 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 timeframe will typically result in your case being dismissed, which would prevent you from pursuing 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 is experienced in your specific situation in your area knows the ins and outs of the process better, allowing them to provide relevant guidance.
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 to estimate their value. 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 negotiating for an amount that covers your losses.
- Guiding you through the process so 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 Experienced 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 claims process, managing all necessary documentation to meet deadlines and accuracy requirements. The right accident lawyer near you knows the nuances of local court procedures, helping prevent unnecessary delays while assisting you through litigation procedures.
The Legal Process Involves Complex Steps
Once a lawsuit is filed, your lawyer will start preparing your case for court. 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 gather all relevant information to build an evidence-backed 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 represent your interests and negotiate with the other parties.
- Trial — Should the case proceed to trial, the right type of accident lawyer can present your case and anticipate any arguments and counterarguments that the other party might use.
Importance Of Finding 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 on your behalf. A competent personal injury lawyer not only brings legal experience but also the skills to help you address issues raised by insurance companies that may dispute or delay your claim.
A personal injury attorney can assist with some early needs following an injury. At our law firm, we help clients explore whether medical liens are available so they can access care without upfront costs when appropriate.
With the right accident lawyer on your side, you can focus on your recovery while knowing that your case is being handled by someone who knows how to manage the claims process.
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 by 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 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. Consulting an accident lawyer near you as soon as possible might be beneficial to identifying deadlines that apply to your case. 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 experienced 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 seek monetary reparation from the responsible party. Your attorney can discuss the different routes you could take if you’ve been injured in an accident caused by someone else.
How Do You Know If Someone Is A Good Accident Lawyer?
A competent accident claims lawyer combines legal experience with comprehensive guidance. The right lawyer considers your needs and goals when crafting a strategy and is transparent about your options. They work to help you make informed decisions about your case. Even during your first meeting, you can assess a lawyer’s communication style if they take the time to explain your rights and options.
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 to 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 pursue compensation even if you share some of the blame. However, your potential compensation may be reduced based on your level of fault. For example, if you are found to be 30% responsible, you could still recover 70% of your total damages.
A lawyer can help evaluate your case, gather evidence, and advocate for your rights. They can investigate whether you genuinely share some responsibility or if blame is being shifted to 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. Since every case is different, it’s important to consult a personal injury attorney who can evaluate your unique situation and help you understand what compensation may be available based on the facts and evidence. Here are the key factors that can influence the value of your accident claim:
- Severity of your injuries
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering or emotional distress
- Property damage (vehicle and personal belongings)
- Degree of fault or liability
- Available insurance coverage
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 who handle 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 you can still ask them to come up with a rough timeline for your case.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire Accident Claims Lawyers Near Me?
The cost of hiring accident lawyers can vary because every case is different. Several factors can influence how much you may pay for legal representation, including:
- Case Complexity — More complicated claims often involve additional research, legal analysis, and preparation.
- Extent of the Investigation — Cases requiring in-depth accident reconstruction, multiple witness interviews, or extensive evidence collection may increase overall costs.
- Number of Involved Parties — Claims that involve several drivers, companies, or insurers can take more time to manage.
- Length of the Claims Process — Cases that take longer to resolve generally require more attorney time and resources.
- Whether Litigation Is Required — Preparing court filings, attending hearings, or moving a case toward trial can raise the total cost of representation.
- Expert Involvement — When cases require input from medical experts, economists, or accident reconstruction specialists, associated fees may affect the overall cost.
- Administrative and Case-Related Expenses — Costs such as obtaining records, ordering official reports, or coordinating documentation can also contribute to total expenses.
During your consultation, an attorney can explain how these factors apply to your situation so you have a clear understanding of potential costs before moving forward.
Injured In An Accident? Contact Our Lawyers To Get The Legal Help You Need
Regardless of the type of accident you were injured in, consulting a lawyer can be beneficial. They can help you file a claim for your injuries and losses. Our accident attorneys are experienced in various types of personal injury cases, offering the guidance and legal knowledge you may need to navigate the specifics of your claim.
Arash Law is an established personal injury law firm in California. We’ve helped injured clients across the state. Our accident claims attorneys are just as dedicated to pursuing a 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 initial consultation.
