Car Accident Lawyer: Los Angeles is known for many wonderful things. One drawback is the traffic. On the highways, there are never-ending lines of cars, resulting in over 55,000 accidents in the city each year. In most cases, insurance companies handle accidents with no hesitation. However, there are times when having a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles can help you get the compensation you deserve.
You don’t want just anyone to take your case when you need a lawyer. You want an experienced veteran who can fight for you and deal with the other party’s insurance company as well as your own. We’ve compiled a list of things to consider when looking for a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles.
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How To Find a Car Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles
Car accident lawyers are personal injury attorneys, and there are many of them in Los Angeles, with billboards and bus ads everywhere. Because there are so many options, you should interview and select a car accident lawyer in a systematic manner.
Here are five factors to consider when hiring a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles.
Ask Friends for Referrals
Because there are so many accidents each year, there is a good chance that someone in your network of friends, family, and coworkers has been in an accident and required the services of an attorney. Ask for referrals and don’t be afraid to inquire about what they liked and disliked about the attorney. Remember that there are many lawyers to choose from, and you are not required to hire just anyone. You want the best fit in your time of need.
Car Accident Lawyer: How To Choose A Car Accident Lawyer In Los Angeles
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Get Car Accident Experts
Because car accident attorneys are typically personal injury lawyers, they may handle cases involving more than just car accidents. Feel free to inquire about their niche and areas of expertise to ensure that they have the background and resources to handle your case properly. If the lawyer handles other types of personal injury cases, such as workers’ compensation, inquire about the percentage of their caseload devoted to car accidents. This is significant because you want someone who has experience dealing with car insurance companies.
Find Out About Fees
Most car accident lawyers will not charge you an hourly fee to represent you. In most cases, they work on contingency, which is excellent. What you should be wary of here is the amount they charge. In general, Los Angeles car accident lawyers charge between 33% and 40% of your settlement or judgment. Lawyers who charge a higher fee should raise red flags. This will rarely result in higher settlements for you that are worth the additional fees.
Research Their Prior Litigation Experience
Only about 5% of car accident cases are tried in court. This is a small percentage, indicating that litigation experience is not always an important factor. However, if you were injured in a serious accident, you will need a lawyer who is willing to go the extra mile. In severe cases, you may seek lost wages as well as significant pain and suffering damages. Not every car accident attorney has the necessary courtroom experience to handle complex cases.
Set Clear Expectations For Communication
Many lawyers excel at selling their services but struggle with regular communication skills when they are in the middle of a case. Because a car accident case can drag on for a long time, especially if your injuries are severe, you should know what to expect from your lawyer in terms of communication. Inquire about how frequently and how they send updates. Some lawyers will primarily communicate via email. You might prefer someone who answers the phone. Look for a lawyer who communicates in the way you prefer.
Car Accident Lawyer: How To Choose A Car Accident Lawyer In Los Angeles
Why You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles
Getting the Most Out of Your Case
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average car accident settlement in California?
Car accident cases in the United States typically settle for between $14,000 and $28,000, with a $21,000 average. This sum can and will vary depending on the specifics of each case.
How long does an insurance company have in California to settle a claim?
Insurance companies in California have 85 days to settle a car insurance claim after it is filed. Delays may occur if you have serious injuries that persist or if there are disputes in your claim that must be resolved. Delays must be communicated to you in writing by the insurance company.