What Makes a Good Personal Injury Lawyer?
It is estimated that there are over 39.5 million personal injury cases in the US each year. And while suffering an injury due to someone else’s negligence, it can turn your life upside down. You may be facing mounting medical bills, lost income from being unable to work, and pain and suffering with no end in sight. A good and experienced personal injury lawyer can help you get the compensation you need to get your life back on track. However, not all personal injury lawyers are created equal. There are approximately 164,559 personal injury attorneys in the US. Here’s what to look for when choosing the right attorney for your personal injury claim.
Experience Handling Your Type of Personal Injury Case
One of the most important factors in choosing a personal injury lawyer is finding one with extensive experience handling cases similar to yours. An attorney who regularly takes on car accident cases or medical malpractice lawsuits will know the ins and outs of building a strong case. A lawyer without much experience in your type of case may not achieve as favorable a settlement or court award.
Resources to Take on Insurance Companies
Going up against big insurance companies demands substantial resources. You want a personal injury law office with the financial means to invest in your case, including hiring expert witnesses, reconstructing accident scenes, and gathering medical evidence. Choose a firm big enough to have the manpower to investigate your claim and build a rock-solid case thoroughly, but not so big that you get lost in the shuffle. A good-sized personal injury law office will have the resources to take on insurance companies without neglecting individual clients. With insurance claims payouts surpassing $800 billion in 2023, it’s essential your lawyer has the means to compel insurers to pay maximum settlements.
Reputation for Achieving Favorable Verdicts and Settlements in Personal Injury Cases
The track record of verdicts and settlements achieved by a personal injury lawyer says a lot about their effectiveness. Do some research to see if past clients have been satisfied with their compensation and the lawyer’s handling of their cases. A lawyer who has a reputation for getting clients the maximum compensation possible is one you can trust to fight aggressively on your behalf.
Strong Negotiation and Trial Skills
Approximately 95% of personal injury claims are settled out of court through negotiation with insurance companies. But some cases do go to trial. You want an attorney skilled at negotiating fair settlements but also one who is not afraid to take your case to trial if needed. Ask about their record of settlements versus cases that have gone to court. A lawyer should have experience with both negotiation and trial litigation.
Compassion and Communication
Dealing with injuries and legal claims can be stressful and confusing. A good personal injury lawyer will treat you with compassion, be patient in answering your questions, and clearly explain legal processes so you can make informed decisions. Find an attorney you feel comfortable with and who is responsive to your needs.
The right personal injury lawyer can make all the difference in getting compensation that alleviates the financial and personal burdens caused by an accident. Keep these qualities in mind as you search for an attorney with the skills and experience to get you the best possible settlement or court award. With the right lawyer in your corner, you can get your life back on track after an injury.