Regardless of the type of accident or injury, if negligence is involved you probably have grounds for filing a claim. Sometimes, accident claims are pretty straightforward. You can handle every aspect, including dealing with the insurance adjuster.
However, the majority of personal injury cases are complex, and legal guidance is a must. This is when you want to turn to the Menges Law Firm. If you’re not sure how to choose a personal injury attorney we have some helpful tips.
Types of Cases Handled by Personal Injury Lawyers
Before you start hunting for a law firm and attorney, it helps to know if you’re looking for the right one to help you.
Thankfully, personal injury law covers almost any type of accident. This usually means a personal injury lawyer can handle everything from a car accident to a product liability claim. Here’s a look at some of the types of cases that fall under personal injury law:
- Child injury claims
- Premises liability cases
- Product liability cases
- Cases that involve disability or catastrophic injury
- Cases against a government entity
- Cases involving multiple parties, including car accidents that involve bicyclists or pedestrians
- Medical malpractice cases
Wrongful death claims can also fall under personal injury law but it’s always a good idea to find out if the attorney is familiar with these types of cases.
What to Look For in an Injury Attorney
Now that you have a better idea of what types of cases personal injury attorneys typically take on, here are a few tips on how to find the right lawyer for your claim.
Does the Lawyer Have Experience
You probably noticed personal injury law covers a wide range of accident claims. While the law is more or less the same regardless of the type of accident, there can be tiny nuances. These little nuances may not seem like much until it’s time to present your claim to the insurance adjuster or take it to civil court. This is when even a small mistake can make a huge difference in how your case is resolved.
For example, proving negligence is typically essential in a personal injury claim. However, it’s not necessary if you’re filing a strict product liability claim. If your attorney isn’t familiar with the key elements of negligence, your claim may be automatically denied. This means you’re not receiving compensation for your damages.
Before you decide to retain legal representation, make sure the attorney is familiar with your type of injury claim.
What About Resources
Proving negligence in a personal injury claim is a little more involved than simply pointing your finger at the liable party. You must provide proof that the accident wasn’t caused by your actions or lack thereof.
This usually means turning to resources like accident scene reconstruction specialists and this is often only the start. You may also need investigators to collect evidence and interview witnesses. If your personal injury attorney doesn’t have access to resources, they may not be the best fit to represent your claim.
During your consultation, find out what resources the attorney routinely uses and has access to when necessary. Don’t forget to inquire about the cost, it’s usually not covered by contingency fees. The last thing you want is to end up owing your attorney after successfully settling your claim.
The Attorney’s Reputation
Don’t be surprised if you can’t find an attorney with a 100% success rate. This is asking a little too much of any lawyer. Not all cases are winnable, even for experienced trial attorneys. However, you want to be cautious if the attorney seems to lose the majority of their cases.
You can easily research an attorney’s reputation online. Pay attention to verified client reviews and don’t be afraid to read message boards. Yes, the legal community typically has message boards where you can get a pretty good idea of a lawyer’s professional reputation. Checking with your state’s Law Review is another great option.
Choose a Personal Injury Attorney Who’ll Listen to You
You’re not a legal expert, it’s why you need an attorney, but it also doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a say in your case. Look for an attorney who’ll listen to your concerns and answer your questions.
Don’t forget about compassion. Your accident has probably already left you rattled and the last thing you need is an attorney who brushes off your worries and concerns. Even though it may take a little time, finding the right attorney for your accident claim is well worth the effort.
