Car Accident Lawyer
When you get in a car accident and want to file a claim, you may need the help of a personal injury lawyer. They can help you understand what your claim might be worth, what damages you can claim, and how laws in your state affect your case. Before you meet with a lawyer, prepare questions you have about the process and what to expect from your claim, as well as their own background and credentials. Here are five questions to get you started.
What Is Your Experience?
You can always make an initial consultation appointment to talk to a lawyer to see if they are a good fit for you. Discuss the lawyer’s case history and success rate in claims that are similar to yours. This not only tells you how successful your claim may be, but it can tell you if you’ll get along with the lawyer.
How Do State Laws Affect the Case?
State laws are complicated and affect each case differently. Ask your lawyer how negligence laws work and about the statute of limitations. You only have so much time to file a claim, and you don’t want to miss the deadline.
What Records Should Be Kept?
You’ll need proof that the accident happened and caused damage, whether it’s property damage or bodily injuries. A lawyer can advise you on if you need to obtain a copy of the police report, a doctor’s report, any other medical document and a bill for repairs.
How Long Does a Settlement Take?
The length of a settlement is different for every person. The more complex the claim is (and the more money you are trying to obtain), the longer the claim is likely to take. Most cases take at least a few months to settle. Ask your lawyer for an estimate on the length of your claim depending on the details of it.
How Much Is the Average Settlement Worth?
This also depends on each case. Some claims are worth a lot of money and are much harder to fight for, but the average claim can be anywhere from $14,000 to $30,000. A lawyer can never completely guarantee a certain amount of money, but they may be able to tell you a general idea of how much you can get after analyzing your case.
You should never be afraid to ask your lawyer, like a car accident lawyer from Johnston Martineau, PLLP, questions. They are there to help you get the most out of a terrible situation.