When you’ve just been in a car accident, there are a million thoughts going through your mind. You’re thinking:
• How am I going to pay these medical bills?
• What if my car is totaled?
• How much time at work am I going to have to miss?
• How long can I wait before contacting my insurance company?
• What if I can’t afford to hire a lawyer?
These questions can drive you crazy, and you absolutely deserve some answers. Money is most definitely one of your major concerns right now because of the pain you may be in and because of the damage that has been done to your property. You’ve probably heard from others about the importance of hiring a lawyer to represent you, but you also know that lawyers are expensive! You feel like you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place and you’re not sure what to do. This article offers you some valuable advice that will give you the guidance you need.
Contingency Fees
In most cases, hiring a lawyer for a car accident case means that your lawyer will work for you on the understanding that he gets paid only when and if you get paid. The percentages are going to differ based on what state you live in, but you can expect to pay about 33% of your settlement. In many cases, this fee will come directly out of your settlement and you’ll get a check from your lawyer’s office. That makes payment very easy. It’s also a good incentive for your lawyer to work hard to get you a high settlement.
Even though 33% might seem like a significant amount, when you consider the fact that many people don’t receive any settlement money when they take on their own cases, you can see how it benefits you to have a lawyer in your corner. If your car accident case results in a settlement of $90,000, you will still receive $60,000.
Working with a lawyer offers you the best chance of getting compensated for your injuries and any damage that has been done to your vehicle. Trying to take on your own case when you’re also dealing with injuries and property loss is not only time consuming, but it’s not likely to help you get the money you deserve for your accident.
The best way to ensure that your case is handled correctly is by talking with a lawyer. Your lawyer will discuss everything you need to know, and you’ll be able to get the valuable legal advice you need to make sure you don’t make any costly mistakes. Even something as simple as talking with the other driver’s insurance company can end up having devastating results for your case. Your lawyer will also do the footwork for you, and because he knows what needs to be done, your results will be much faster.
Don’t let legal fees deter you from talking with a lawyer. Make the wise choice to talk with a professional about your case.