Top 7 Things To Do Before Hiring A car Accident Attorney

According to the IIHS, there are approximately 36,000 fatal car accidents annually in the United States. Additionally, thousands of car accidents result in minor to major injuries in the US every year. Many of these accidents require the expertise of an Ohio car accident attorney.

If you have been involved in a car accident and have sustained injuries or damages, it is best to consider hiring an Ohio car accident attorney from The Eric Henry Law Firm. An attorney from our firm can help you build a strong case that will increase your chances of obtaining a fair settlement.

Yet, before you reach out to an attorney, we want to share the seven things you need to do if you’re considering hiring one.

Considering Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer? These Are the Top 7 Things You Need to Do

Although there are many things you need to consider when you’ve decided to hire a car accident lawyer, some things are more important than others. Since it can be challenging to determine what is more important, we have briefly detailed the top seven things you need to do.

Many of these things will eventually lead to you hiring an attorney, so don’t be afraid to speak with us at The Henry Law Firm.

1. Ask Friends and Family for Car Accident Attorney Referrals

It’s likely that someone in your network of family, friends, co-workers, or acquaintances has had a car accident and needed an attorney. So if you’re looking for an Ohio car accident lawyer, why not ask the people you know or get a referral to an attorney they know and trust?

If you don’t want to go the referral route, you can do an online search for “local lawyers or attorneys near me” and attend consultations with them. However, remember that it’s important that you decide on an attorney with whom you feel comfortable.

2. Determine If You Have a Case

Unfortunately, not everyone has a case when it comes to suing for compensation for injuries sustained in an auto accident. That’s why it’s important to determine if you have a case before you begin the lengthy legal proceedings.

To find out if you have a viable case, you will need to speak with an attorney, who can examine your case and evidence to establish if you’re likely to obtain a car accident settlement. It’s important to use a trustworthy attorney as you don’t want one that will say you have a case when you don’t just so they can be paid.

3. Research An Accident Lawyers Prior Litigation Experience

Only around 5% of car accident cases indeed go to trial. However, even though this is a small percentage, it’s important to determine if your lawyer has prior litigation experience. You will likely need a lawyer with litigation experience if you were in a serious accident resulting in you sustaining major injuries and damages.

A lawyer who has litigation experience will be able to help you if your case goes to trial. At The Henry Law Firm, our firm has significant litigation experience with car accident cases.

4. Learn More About the Accident Lawyers Car Accident Case Experience

Not every lawyer specializes in car accident law, so even if they are skilled, this doesn’t automatically mean they can handle your auto accident case. That’s why it’s important to hire an attorney with years of experience handling auto accident cases.

An attorney with experience will be able to navigate the often complex proceedings and will know the ins and outs of the laws that apply to your case. Additionally, an experienced attorney will also be familiar with the local authorities, judges, and court proceedings, so you’ll have an increased chance at success.

5. Discuss the Auto Accident Lawyer Fees Up Front

Many forget to discuss fees upfront with a lawyer they are considering hiring. This is a big mistake. You must iron out the fees early on so you’re not surprised by the amount your lawyer receives.

Most car accident lawyers don’t charge clients an hourly fee to retain them. Instead, they work on a contingency fee basis (like us). If you hire a lawyer that works on a contingency fee basis, they will typically charge you between 33% and 40% of what you earn in compensation. If a lawyer is asking you to pay a retainer or up-front fee, it’s a major red flag, and you should try to hire someone else.

6. Set Your Expectations for Communication

Unfortunately, many car accident lawyers are astoundingly good at selling their services while lacking regular communication skills. The very last thing you likely want is to be paired with a lawyer that won’t communicate with you about your case.

That’s why it’s crucial to ensure you set your expectations for communication early on when you meet with a car accident lawyer. A lawyer worth their salt should efficiently and promptly communicate with you every step of the way to ensure you’re kept abreast of what is happening with your case.

So, don’t be afraid to ask how many updates they will give you and how available they are when it comes to answering questions and concerns. In addition, some lawyers are only communicative through email, so be sure to tell them how you prefer to be contacted, so there are no delays in communication.

7. Take All Relevant Car Accident Information To Your Initial Consultation

In our opinion, one of the most important things you must do if you’re considering hiring a car accident attorney is to take all relevant car accident information to your initial consultation.

The more an attorney knows about your case, the more likely they will help you. With the right information, they can also tell you if you have a case and your likelihood of obtaining compensation. Some can even go so far as to give you a reliable estimate of how much you could get if you reach a fair settlement.

Some of the information you should take to your attorney for your first official consultation includes the following:

• Photo and video evidence about the wreck.
• Medical bills and reports.
• A police report.
• Your auto insurance policy.
• Your medical insurance policy.
• Witness statements (if you have them already).
• Contact information from witnesses.

If a car accident lawyer has this information, they are far likelier to resolve your case quicker. Not to mention, you’ll, in most instances, receive more compensation with a stronger case.

Speak With an Ohio Car Accident Attorney Today to Discuss Your Auto Accident Case

There are many things you need to do if you’re considering hiring a car accident attorney. Luckily, if you follow our advice, you’re more likely to obtain a fair settlement and justice for your injuries.

So, when you’re ready to hire an Ohio lawyer, consider The Eric Henry Law firm, as we have the experience, knowledge, and skills to successfully navigate car accident cases. You can trust us to do all we can to ensure a positive case outcome. Contact us here for an obligation-free consultation. We are eager to help you!