After getting injured in a car accident, you may have questions about the next steps to take. Those who have been in a car accident in Ocala, Florida, should consult a knowledgeable lawyer.
Before choosing a lawyer, ask your prospective car accident lawyer questions. Here are some of the most important questions to ask.
1. What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
The first thing you should do is seek medical attention if you have not already. After a car accident, you may not immediately know the extent of your injuries. Medical professionals can diagnose accident injuries that might otherwise remain undetected.
2. How Much Does It Cost to Hire You?
In Florida, most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you do not have to pay a fee unless you receive money from your lawsuit. Generally, a lawyer takes a fixed percentage that you can settle on beforehand.
3. Do You Have Experience with Car Accident Cases?
The fact is that many lawyers can handle your car accident case. A good lawyer should have a history of practice in Florida because car accident laws and processes are complex. To maximize the chances of a favorable outcome, choose a lawyer with expertise in handling car accident claims.
4. Will You Be the Lawyer Handling My Case?
After carefully screening and hiring a lawyer, people are surprised that someone else is handling their case. Although junior lawyers and paralegals are highly qualified, you should know who is representing you.
5. How Much Time Will You Spend on My Case?
Sometimes lawyers accept too many cases and do not have enough time for you. Ask your potential lawyer how much time they can dedicate to your case. Stress how important it is to you to get started right away with your lawsuit.
6. What Personal Injury Damages Can I Recover?
Usually, car accident victims seek damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. The extent of the claim depends on the injuries you sustained. Based on the facts, your lawyer should be able to explain what damages you can claim.
7. Can You Help Me with Fair Compensation for Medical Expenses?
Car accidents can cause permanent and lifelong injuries. A doctor can tell you if you need to visit a physical therapist or require any form of rehabilitation. A skilled lawyer can demonstrate the need for future medical expenses and ask for financial compensation.
8. Do You Believe That I Have a Strong Case?
To seek compensation, you must prove that the other driver was negligent and failed to exercise caution, which led to the accident. Ask your lawyer how strong your case is early on. If you do not have a strong case, it is better to settle with the insurance company.
9. How Long Will It Take to Resolve My Case?
If you have severe injuries, medical bills can pile up. After the car accident, you may not be able to return to work, impacting your financial situation. Before you hire a lawyer, you should ask how long it will take to resolve your case.
10. What Can I Do to Help?
It is a common misconception that once you hire a lawyer, all you have to do is wait. However, the lawyer may need you to take a proactive role. Meet with the doctors, talk to investigators, collect evidence, and remain involved until the case has concluded.
11. What Should I Do if the Insurance Company Makes Me an Offer?
Insurance companies often seek to protect their interests by initially offering a low settlement. Do not accept any offer before consulting an experienced lawyer. Even if the at-fault driver has insurance coverage, you have the legal right to file a claim.
12. What Are the Chances of Going to Trial?
Most car accident cases settle out of court. Before taking the case, the lawyer will explain this to you, but you should also inquire if your lawyer is preparing for the possibility of going to trial. Should the need arise, your lawyer should have confidence in their ability to deal with the insurer inside and outside court.
13. How Often Will You Update Me About the Case?
Many people have not worked with a lawyer before. Every lawyer may have a different approach, so make sure your lawyer provides regular updates on your case. It is advisable to ask whether these updates will come via phone calls, emails, or in-person meetings.
14. Can I Speak to Your Past Clients?
If you are looking for legal representation, you should select someone reliable. Ask for references from any personal injury lawyer you consider hiring. A professional lawyer will be able to provide you with the name and contact information of previous clients.
15. Is There a Deadline for Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
Yes. The statute of limitations in Florida is four years. In the event of a wrongful death claim, the limit is two years. If you do not file your lawsuit within this deadline, you can lose the right to seek compensation.
16. How Do I Get a Lawyer to Represent Me?
Finding the right car accident lawyer is essential. After the lawyer has answered your questions, you may decide to hire them. The lawyer will file your personal injury claim right away to increase the likelihood of recovering compensation quickly.
Talk to a Professional Car Accident Lawyer in Ocala
Pamela Olsen Law understands that choosing a lawyer after a car accident is difficult. Our experienced team will work hard on your behalf so you can return to your everyday life. Let us walk you through the legal process and explain what to expect.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident in Ocala, Florida due to someone else’s actions, now is the right time to seek help. Contact Pam Olsen, Esq. today for free consultation at (352) 671-9777. Or if you prefer, you can complete this simple contact form and she will be in touch right away.