New York is one of the most populous, congested, and accident-prone states in the US. From 2012-2014 there was an annual average of 1,098 deaths, 12,093 hospitalizations, and 136,913 emergency department visits because of motor vehicle traffic injuries among New York State residents.
After a traumatic accident, you may feel overwhelmed. You have many decisions to make, and may not even know what you should do next.
One of the most important decisions you will make during this phase is choosing a New York City car accident lawyer.
This article will discuss some of the most common mistakes people make when choosing a car accident lawyer, so that you can be wary of them.
1) Not Checking Credentials
One of the mistakes people make is hiring a lawyer who doesn’t have the experience or credentials they need. Make sure to ask the lawyer how many car accident cases they have handled and what type of results they have achieved so far.
You must also ask about their experience with the court system. If your accident case goes to trial, you want a lawyer who’s comfortable in the courtroom and knows how to win.
When you meet with your lawyer, ask them about their credentials and check if any national or state organizations have recognized them.
2) Not Asking About Their Charges
You should ask the lawyer about how much their services cost. A good lawyer will be transparent and honest with you, but some lawyers are not.
Make sure to get a written estimate of the lawyer’s fees and ask about any additional costs that may arise. You don’t want any surprises later on. Remember, you don’t need to hire the most expensive lawyer out there. You want to make sure you’re hiring a qualified and experienced New York City car accident lawyer.
Ask about the payment plan and whether or not they will take a case on contingency. Many good lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means they don’t get paid unless you win.
3) Not Speaking to More Than One Lawyer
It’s essential to speak to more than one lawyer before deciding. You may have a friend or family member who can refer you to a good lawyer. It’s also a good idea to search online and read reviews about the lawyers in your area.
You should get a feel for the lawyer’s personality and discuss your case with them. If you have any concerns about their experience or charges, make sure to ask about it upfront.
4) Not Considering Their Negotiations Skills
Insurance companies often want to pay as little money as possible to you, regardless of the extent of your injuries and property damage. The best lawyers know how to negotiate with the insurance companies and get you a fair settlement for your injuries.
A good lawyer will have strong negotiation skills, work well with the insurance company, and be up for a fight in court if necessary.
5) Not Meeting the Lawyer in Person
When looking for a lawyer, it’s essential to meet them in person and get a sense of who they are. If you have any concerns about their experience, fees, or personality, make sure to ask them upfront before signing any contracts with them.
Remember, you’re going to be working with this lawyer for months or even years. You want to ensure you feel comfortable and confident in their abilities to handle your case well and get a fair settlement for you.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right lawyer is an important decision and can be overwhelming. Make sure to do your research, ask plenty of questions, and go with a lawyer you know you can trust. The right attorney will be transparent upfront, not charge anything unless you win, and always have your best interests in mind when it comes to negotiations.
