How to Choose a Good
Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer
Whether driving your routine commute, or heading down the
street to pick up some groceries, vehicle collisions are a common incident many
drivers may encounter during their lifetime. Injuries attained from a car
accident can be life impacting, thus knowing how to choose a good motor vehicle
accident lawyer is key to ensuring you or your family get fair compensation for
your case. Regardless of who was responsible for the accident, you may be
eligible to receive benefits from your insurance company or through court. Here
are some things to look for when searching for a personal injury lawyer.
1. Experienced
Personal injury claims require a lawyer experienced in
personal injury law. Motor vehicle accidents are a common case in Ontario, with
two methods of pursuing compensation: accident benefits and tort claims. Your
lawyer should be able to provide guidance on which route best suits your case.
Ask about what previous cases they have handled and whether they have
experience with ones similar to yours.
2. Supportive and
Fits Your Needs
Accidents result in a stressful period of time, thus a good
lawyer should communicate with you throughout the process and be specific about
what will be provided. If English is not your first language or you are more
comfortable speaking your native tongue, consider looking for a firm that
offers its services in your native language.
3. No Upfront Fees
A professional firm will never request pre-payments for
their services and will offer a free consultation, even if you are just looking
for a second opinion. Unless you win your settlement, you should not be
required to pay fees. Your lawyer should also be able to explain their costs to
you plainly, whether it's a percentage of the settlement or an agreed upon
amount.
4. Can Provide Advice
Remotely
Due to the nature of motor vehicle accidents, you may be
hospitalized or recovering from home while you pursue legal action. Many firms
experienced in these cases offer communication through remote channels such as
telephone or online chat. Some attorneys, like those at Sokoloff Lawyers, offer
to come to you directly – wherever you are!
5. Answers Your
Questions Promptly
Motor vehicle accidents require timely action, thus it is
important the lawyer you choose is prompt in answering your questions. Never be
afraid to bring lots of questions (even basic ones) to a potential accident lawyer.
They should make you feel at ease and confident in their abilities to handle
your case.
A
good motor vehicle accident lawyer should feel like a well-educated support
system that has your best interests in mind, never a pressuring salesperson
looking to bank on a service fee. Take the time to do your research and shop
around for a firm that best suits your needs and incident. It never hurts to
book consultations or preliminary meetings with a few options before choosing
the one to ultimately take on your case. The right person representing you
during negotiations or trials will give you peace of mind and let you stay on a
smooth road to recovery, rather than stressing over paperwork.