Chris Hammons | September 19, 2024 | Personal Injury
Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, and insurance companies. That’s where a car accident lawyer comes in.
Their job is to guide you through the legal process, helping you seek the compensation you need and deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. Understanding what a car accident lawyer does can help you decide if hiring one is the right choice for your case.
Investigating the Accident
One of the first things a car accident lawyer will do is investigate the details of the accident. This process includes gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and photographs of the accident scene. They may also work with accident reconstruction experts to understand how the crash occurred and who was at fault.
By conducting a thorough investigation, your lawyer ensures that all the important details are uncovered, which can strengthen your case. This evidence is crucial when negotiating with insurance companies or if the case goes to court.
Dealing With the Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be one of the most frustrating aspects of a car accident claim. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. A car accident lawyer acts as your advocate, handling all communication with the insurance companies on your behalf.
They know the tactics that insurers use and can negotiate for a fair settlement that covers all of your damages, including medical expenses and lost income. By having a lawyer deal with the insurance company, you can avoid the stress and potential pitfalls of handling the claim on your own.
Calculating Your Damages
One of the most important roles of a car accident lawyer is calculating the total value of your claim. This includes both economic damages, like medical bills and vehicle repairs, and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. An experienced lawyer will ensure that all of your losses are accounted for so that you receive as much as possible.
In some cases, you may also be entitled to punitive damages if the other driver acted recklessly or intentionally. A lawyer can help determine if this applies to your case.
Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary
While most car accident claims are settled out of court, there are times when filing a lawsuit is necessary to get fair compensation. If negotiations with the insurance company break down, your lawyer will file a personal injury lawsuit and take your case to trial if needed.
Having a lawyer who is prepared to go to court shows the insurance company that you’re serious about seeking full compensation. This alone can often lead to better settlement offers.
Contingency Fees: What Does It Cost To Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you don’t pay any upfront costs or hourly fees. Instead, your lawyer will take a percentage of the settlement or court award if they win your case. If they don’t win money for your case, you won’t owe any attorney’s fees.
This fee structure makes legal representation accessible to anyone, regardless of financial situation. Typically, contingency fees range from 33% to 40% of the settlement. Be sure to discuss the exact terms with your lawyer during the initial consultation.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, working with an experienced lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of your claim. A car accident lawyer will handle everything from investigating the crash to negotiating with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on recovering.
Most importantly, they can fight to ensure you receive the compensation you need to move forward. Contact Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation and get started.
Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyers at Laird Hammons Laird Trial Lawyers for a Free Consultation
For more information, please contact an experienced Personal Injury lawyer at Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. Our law office is located in Oklahoma City.
We proudly serve Oklahoma County, OK and its surrounding areas:
Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers – OKC
1332 SW 89th St,
Oklahoma City, OK 73159
(405) 497-0480