Being involved in an auto accident is traumatic and life-changing for everyone directly affected, along with the families of those who have been injured. Beyond any immediate physical injuries, accident victims must also deal with large medical bills, potential loss of income, and the emotional stress of trying to get proper compensation from insurance companies. Finding the right auto injury attorney near you is key to securing proper compensation, obtaining justice for the accident, and protecting your legal rights. An experienced personal injury lawyer will give you the freedom to focus solely on your rehabilitation while they fight for justice and secure proper compensation.
The big question, though, is, with countless personal injury lawyers advertising their services, how can you determine which is best to represent you in your case? This process is difficult, but not impossible. Consider these essential factors to give you clarity during the decision-making process.
The Importance of Experience
Ontario personal injury law encompasses a broad spectrum of injuries, from slip and fall accidents, to dog bites, animal attacks, and bike accidents. Advocating on behalf of individuals who have sustained serious injuries in auto accidents though requires a specific set of skills and experience. Having a skilled personal injury lawyer who has represented past car accident victims is essential for success in any insurance claim. According to the Insurance Research Council, seriously injured individuals represented by a personal injury attorney after a car accident receive settlements that are, on average, 3.5 times higher than those who pursue their claims without legal representation.
A simple way to verify a personal injury lawyer’s experience in representing seriously injured individuals in auto accidents is to verify their history of settlements and trial verdicts. Experience is crucial, and a personal injury lawyer with years of practice advocating for seriously injured individuals will most likely have a significant positive influence on the outcome of your case. Experience matters, so look for a personal injury lawyer who has represented individuals hurt in similar accidents to yours.
Research Online Reviews and Testimonials
Online reviews and client testimonials help you evaluate a law firm’s reputation. Google Reviews and law firm websites contain multiple reviews that provide significant insight and are readily accessible. These are two starting points for gathering research when choosing a personal injury lawyer firm to represent you and your claim.
Pay special attention to the firm’s online ratings. A rating of 4 stars out of 5 should be the minimum threshold for consideration. Review general details of client experiences and outcomes and note any recurring complaints about communication or professionalism.
Additionally, read how the firm responds to negative reviews, as this will allow you to verify the validity of the claim and determine if there was any resolution.
Understand What is the Law Firm’s Fee Structure
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay the lawyer after they win your case. Contingency fees are a percentage of your settlement or court award, typically ranging from 25% to 40%.
When agreeing to representation, it is essential that you understand the percentage amount with the firm, whether you’ll be responsible for any upfront costs, and if there are additional fees for court proceedings.
All reputable personal injury attorneys will be upfront about their pricing and will not charge any upfront fees. They will walk you through the entire legal process and will provide an expected timeline.
Assess the Personal Injury Lawyer’s Communication Skills
One of the main complaints that clients have about lawyers is a lack of communication during the legal process. Any reputable attorney should be responsive and ready to answer their client’s questions throughout their legal journey. During your initial consultation with potential auto accident attorneys, pay attention to how they explain the legal process, outline your possible case strategy and legal options, and respond to your emails or calls. See if they will introduce you to their supporting team, including their paralegal and clerks, and ask who you will be communicating with throughout the legal process.
Understand The Lawyer’s Caseload and Resources
Representing a seriously injured person in an auto accident claim is a lengthy process (typically spanning multiple years) that requires various legal resources, including access to medical experts and investigators. Some smaller law firms may not have the bandwidth to fully commit to your case, which could negatively impact your chances of a successful outcome.
During your initial consultation with potential legal representation, ask the lawyer and their team how many cases they are currently managing. Inquire whether they have the necessary resources to thoroughly address your claim and find out the size of the team that will work on your case. Finally, confirm if the lawyer you are meeting with will personally handle your case or delegate it to junior associates.
A well-established law firm with ample resources will significantly impact the development of a strong case, enhancing your chances of securing proper justice and compensation for your accident.
Why is a Free Initial Consultation Essential?
Most reputable auto injury law firms offer free initial consultations to evaluate your case. This is mutually beneficial as it allows them to vet the validity of your claim, and you to ask questions to the lawyer and their team.
The initial free consultation will provide you with valuable insight, allowing you to ask the lawyer questions about their firm, experience, thoughts on personal injury law, and what to expect if you retain their services.
This consultation is also an opportunity for you to assess their level of dedication to your case. A lawyer who listens attentively, answers all your questions openly, and provides clear guidance is a strong candidate.
Compare Multiple Attorneys Before Deciding
Choosing a personal injury lawyer to represent your claim after being hurt in a serious accident is a serious decision that may influence getting proper compensation and justice for your injuries. This is why you should initially consult with multiple lawyers. This will help you to compare their experience, communication style, and fees, allowing you to make a well-informed decision about who is best suited to handle your case.
You will be able to see firsthand which lawyer you connect with, so trust your gut when choosing your personal injury lawyer.
Choosing the Right Lawyer for You
The right auto injury attorney is someone you trust and feel confident in – someone who has a proven track record of success, communicates openly and honestly, and will fight tirelessly to maximize your compensation.
Choosing the right legal representation will let you focus solely on your rehabilitation as your legal team fights on your behalf for justice and compensation. However, finding the right auto injury attorney near you requires research and careful consideration. By evaluating an attorney’s experience, reputation, communication skills, and resources, you can ensure that you have the best possible representation for your case.
Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers has over 50 years of experience successfully representing seriously injured car accident victims across Ontario. Our lawyers are committed to providing the highest level of expertise and client experience, making sure you have the best chance to receive the proper compensation and justice you and your family deserve. Contact Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation at 416-665-2000, or visit bergellaw.
