Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer – Choose a Car Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has a reputation for many great things, but its traffic is not one of them. The city sees over 55,000 car accidents a year due to the endless streams of vehicles on its highways. Although insurance providers usually handle the compensation for injuries resulting from these accidents, there are times when you may require the services of a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer – Choose a Car Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles

When looking for a lawyer, it is crucial to find an experienced veteran who can fight for you and handle the other party, their insurance company, and your own insurer when necessary. Here’s what you need to keep in mind when searching for a car accident attorney in Los Angeles.

How to Find a Car Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles Car accident attorneys fall under the category of personal injury lawyers, and Los Angeles has plenty of them advertising on billboards and buses. Since there are so many options to choose from, you need to approach selecting a car accident attorney systematically.

Here are five things to consider when choosing a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles.

1. Seek Referrals from Friends: Given the high number of car accidents that occur every year, it’s highly likely that someone in your circle of friends, family, or coworkers has required the services of an attorney after an accident. Ask around for referrals and don’t hesitate to inquire about their experience and what they liked or disliked about the lawyer they worked with. With many lawyers to choose from, you need to find the right fit for your case.
2. Look for Car Accident Experts: Most car accident lawyers also handle other personal injury cases like workers’ compensation. Ask about their area of specialization to ensure that they have the background and resources to handle your case effectively. If the attorney does not specialize exclusively in car accidents, inquire about the percentage of their caseload that is related to car accidents. This is essential because you need someone who is well-versed in handling car insurance companies.
3. Find Out About Fees: Car accident lawyers typically work on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid when you receive compensation. However, you need to be wary of the amount they charge. In Los Angeles, car accident lawyers generally charge between 33% and 40% of your settlement or judgment. Beware of attorneys who charge higher fees, as this does not necessarily guarantee a better outcome.
4. Research Their Prior Litigation Experience: Only about 5% of car accident cases go to trial. Although litigation experience is not always necessary, if your case involves significant injuries, you need a lawyer who can go the distance. In such cases, you’ll be seeking lost wages, significant pain and suffering damages, and more. Not every car accident attorney has the courtroom experience to handle such cases effectively.
5. Set Clear Communication Expectations: Good communication is vital during a car accident case, particularly if your injuries are lingering, and the case takes a while to resolve. Ask your attorney how frequently they provide updates and through which communication channels. Some attorneys prefer to communicate via email, while others prefer phone calls. Find a lawyer who communicates in a way that suits you.

Why You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles

Not every car accident requires a lawyer. However, if your injuries are severe or you’re struggling to receive compensation from insurance companies, it’s essential to get legal representation. Keep in mind that the other party’s insurance company aims to pay the least amount possible. Without a lawyer, you may not know all your rights to compensation, and dealing with insurance companies can be frustrating.

In California, the average settlement for a car accident case ranges from $14,000 to $28,000, with an average of $21,000. Insurance companies have 85 days to settle a claim after it’s filed, but delays may occur for various reasons.

In conclusion, choosing the right car accident lawyer in Los Angeles requires careful consideration. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be better equipped to find an attorney who will fight for your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.