No one is ever prepared to deal with the consequences of a car accident. Unfortunately, such accidents are quite common in Idaho and can happen to anyone. If you suffered serious injuries, your first concern should be your recovery. Do not underestimate the impact of a crash because signs and symptoms of injuries may show up later. Once you are okay, consider talking to a Boise Idaho auto accident lawyer. Ideally, you should speak with an attorney before you talk to the insurance company. In this post, we bring the questions you must ask when meeting an accident lawyer for the first time.
- What can I expect in a settlement?
This depends largely on the facts of the case, and even the best lawyers cannot promise the exact outcome. Based on the initial investigation and extent of your injuries, your lawyer can share an overview of the expected settlement. If you had a share in fault, your fault percentage would be used to reduce the settlement for your damages. Lawyers may rely on previous cases and settlements to explain your chances.
- What will it cost to hire you?
Injury lawyers usually work on a contingency fee. The lawyer gets paid when you get a settlement. The fee is a percentage of the settlement recovered from the insurance company. As we mentioned, each accident claim is unique, and so are the surrounding circumstances. Most attorneys typically charge 25-40% of the final recovery. If the lawyer is experienced and known, they may take more than other generic attorneys. Ensure that you hire an injury lawyer – someone who specializes in personal injury law.
- Will the case go to court?
Most personal injury cases in Idaho are settled outside of court. However, a good lawyer will prepare for the worst-case scenario, where the insurance company refuses to pay a fair settlement, and as a result, a trial is necessary. Make sure that the lawyer you choose is great at litigation and can take legal action beyond negotiation when needed.
Beyond these basic questions, you should ask the attorney about their practice and if they take accident cases regularly. You can also seek details of their recent personal injury settlements and get references. If you are comparing a few options, consider checking online reviews. Don’t be tempted to choose an attorney because they are charging less than others. Legal expertise comes at a cost, which is worth paying for.
