Traffic mishaps happen all the time in Bakersfield. We hope that you are driving safely and encounter no unfortunate incidents, but when involved in a car accident, you need to act rationally and make the most of the time. If the other driver was reckless, speeding, or caused the mishap because they were distracted, you may have a claim. Recovering the damages that you deserve can take considerable work, and that’s where a professional lawyer can help. You need to seek legal consultation, and in this post, we are discussing some essential aspects of working with the right firm.
Look for a lawyer specializing in personal injury law
Personal injury law is a special branch of law that’s unique and complex in numerous ways. Just like you would hire the best orthopedic surgeon for your knee surgery, you need an attorney who specializes in the field and has the expertise to tackle your claim. Also, there are different types of injury claims, and therefore, it is best to find a firm that represents car accident victims frequently in Bakersfield.
Be honest and ask the right questions
Injury lawyers usually offer free consultations for clients, and it is best to go prepared for that initial meeting. You must come prepared – bring your medical records, videos and pictures from the scene, contact details of witnesses, and everything else you may have. You need to also make a questionnaire for your lawyer, which should ideally include questions like –
- What’s your experience with similar car accident claims in Bakersfield?
- If the matter is not settled through negotiations, can you take my case to trial?
- What do you expect from me? What dos and don’ts should I follow?
- What is the estimated worth of my settlement?
- What is the timeline for similar cases?
Discuss the lawyer’s payment details
The cost of hiring a car accident lawyer depends on the facts of the case. However, your lawyer will ask for a contingency fee, which is a part of the settlement and not an hourly rate. Your lawyer should also explain whether there are other expenses that are your responsibility. For instance, they may have to spend money on the investigation, hiring medical experts, and traveling. In some situations, your lawyer may bear the expenses until you recover money.
Do discuss the ways that you can communicate with the attorney. They should be accessible for your questions or have a team to handle your emails and calls.