About 37,461 deaths related to vehicle crashes occurred in 2016, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says. That number only underscores the frequency with which car accidents happen. If you find yourself in one, here are mistakes you’ll want to avoid when you look for a car accident attorney in DC.
Not doing any research
Get to know the lawyer before you hire his services. Check out his website. Know about his professional experience and background before you even think about asking for help.
Hiring solely for the experience
It’s true that there’s no substitute for experience. But make sure you hire legal help with the right kind of experience. Look for a car accident attorney in DC who’s had years of experience settling personal injury cases or specifically, car accident cases in the area. That way, you can be certain that the lawyer has the credentials, talent, and insight to help you win your case.
Not asking any questions
When you hire a lawyer, be sure to ask a ton of questions. Find out as much as you can about what’s going to happen. Be clear about your expectations. Discuss them with your lawyer so your legal help can set you straight on a few of them.
Talk about compensation
Know the payment terms and conditions. Many personal injury lawyers won’t take a fee unless they win your case. While that’s often a given, it wouldn’t hurt to make sure that’s the arrangement you have with your lawyer.
Skimming through the contract
Don’t just skim through the document. Read and understand everything. If there are vague conditions, call them out. Seek out clarifications, so you know exactly what you agree to. If there are pertinent details they left out of the contract, ask them to add those details in before you put in your signature.
