After a car accident, you are probably facing mounting medical costs while you miss out on income during your recovery. You may know you need a lawyer who can help you get the best settlement or award possible for these damages. But do you how to choose the best personal injury attorney for your case? You need a local lawyer with the experience and expertise to win, like an attorney from OEB Law, PLLC. Call 865-546-1111 to set up a free consultation today.
Look for an Attorney with Experience with Similar Cases
Perhaps the most important factor in recovering the maximum amount of compensation possible in your case is having skilled legal support. This does not just mean an attorney who graduated in the top of their law school class. Personal injury laws have nuances that vary between car crashes, motorcycle collisions, big rig wrecks, and even pedestrian and cyclist accidents. It is paramount that your lawyer knows the laws relevant to your case and how the local courts typically apply them.
Choose a Lawyer Who Knows the Area
Hiring a local attorney who knows and practices in your area is important. While you may think a large national firm has more resources, choosing a firm that focuses on cases in Knoxville, Knox County, or the surrounding area is the best bet for your case. For example, our lawyers have relationships with local lawmakers and judges. We know court employees by name and can call on local resources outsiders might not know about. This includes a team of local accident reconstruction experts and other expert witnesses who can help us understand and prove your claim.
Another benefit to hiring a local lawyer who knows the area is that they will understand local laws applicable to your case. For example, if another motorist turns right on red at an intersection and hits your car, a local lawyer may know there is a “no turn on red” sign at that stoplight because they pass through the area every morning on the way to work. This is the type of personal connection you will not receive at a much larger firm.
The Best Lawyer Will Care About Your Case
Some lawyers win plenty of cases without getting involved in any emotional way. However, the accident victims they represent probably do not rate them too highly when it comes to communication or interaction. You want someone with a stellar work ethic, who will put their all into your case and fight for you with a passion.
You want your attorney to know your name when you call and to provide personalized service. You need regular communication, to know they are there when you need questions answered, and to know when to expect status updates on your claim. When you have an attorney who cares about your family and your case, you can expect this type of personal attention.
Pick a Lawyer with Litigation Experience
While many car accident claims settle without the need for a lawsuit, no attorney can promise an out-of-court settlement. It is unlikely you will need to litigate your case to receive the compensatory damages you deserve to cover your accident losses, but you need to consider that possibility when choosing a lawyer. Your lawyer needs to understand every aspect of the Tennessee auto accident claims process and know how to argue your case in court, if necessary.
You need effective support from your legal team. Ask any prospective personal injury attorney about their experience in the courtroom and how many cases they litigate each year.
Find Someone Who Understands Your Budget
Most lawyers take on car accident cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay any fees for the work they do until they collect compensation from your claim or court appearance. This is key if you are already struggling to pay your medical bills, cover lost wages, and keep up with your household expenses.
Some firms may ask you to pay some of the fees as you go or they will request other money upfront. Be sure you discuss your budget before you sign an agreement. You and your attorney should both agree on when and how much you will pay before they begin working on your claim.
Why is the initial consultation with a personal injury attorney so important?
After you get the names of a few car accident attorneys who might be the best option to handle your case, it is time to schedule meetings with each of them. Almost all personal injury lawyers will offer a complimentary consultation so you can get to know them and they can learn more about your case. This meeting can be in person or over the phone. This discussion plays a key role in helping you choose the best firm for your case because it gives you the opportunity to:
- Ensure the attorney fits all of the criteria you are looking for;
- Learn when and how the legal team communicates with clients;
- Meet the lawyer to see if your personalities work well together;
- Discuss payment and budgets; and
- Understand more about your legal options for compensation.
We recommend having this type of initial case evaluation with two or more car accident lawyers in the area. While you may feel comfortable with the first one you meet, you will feel even more confident in your decision to work with them if you have more than one to choose from.
Turn Your Wreck into a Check with OEB Law, PLLC
If you need skilled and passionate legal support in Knoxville or the surrounding area, the personal injury attorneys at OEB Law, PLLC, are ready to answer your call. We handle all types of car accident cases, including truck, motorcycle, and pedestrian crashes.
We have the experience and resources to prove your claim and the drive to fight for the maximum possible payout in your case. Call us today at 865-546-1111 for your free case evaluation.