How to Choose the Right Lawyer for Your Claim

Getting involved in a personal injury incident, like an auto accident, isn’t easy. Normally, it’s impossible to plan for incidents like these—anyway, no one anticipates getting injured when going out hiking, riding, shopping, or at work.

However, accidents happen daily, and in the unfortunate circumstances you get involved in one, you need to focus on safeguarding your health by seeking immediate medical attention and protecting your rights by enlisting a lawyer. But how do you choose the right lawyer for your claim?

What to Look for in a Personal Injury Lawyer

Ultimately, your first approach when searching for a personal injury lawyer might be to ask your friends and family for referrals. Searching online may be another viable, fast option. But you’ll likely be bombarded right, left, and center by dozens of lawyers claiming to be the best. So, how do you narrow your list to a lawyer suitable for your type of claim? Here are some things to look for:

1. Does the Lawyer Specialize in Your Area of Claim?

Just as you wouldn’t opt for a dentist to operate on your broken leg, so it is when it comes to choosing a lawyer. Attorneys have different areas of specialization. Therefore, you’d want to choose the one that specializes in your exact area of need. If you’re dealing with a car accident claim, be sure the attorney has expertise in car accident/personal injury law in your state.

2. Experience

When it comes to law, experience in the area of law is essential. Go with an attorney who has vast experience in similar cases like yours. The more years the lawyer has accumulated practicing and representing people with similar cases, the more likely they will know the dynamics and secrets to winning your case. In personal injury cases, for instance, experienced lawyers know exactly the tactics insurance companies use to deny victims fair compensation, which will come in handy when fighting your personal injury claim.

3. Track Record

Years of experience are nothing if the lawyer cannot show their track record of success. Track record may be demonstrated through:

• Impressive reviews by previous clients
• Records of cases the lawyer has won
• Trial successes—This shows that the lawyer is not afraid to go to court if it means giving the victim a better chance of winning fair compensation
• Awards and recognitions from other attorneys or former clients

4. Communication and Personality

A lawyer is someone you will be in communication with for the big part of your case. Therefore, you want someone who is easy to reach, keeps you updated on the progress of your case, and promptly communicates when something comes up concerning your case.

Another priority for you is paying close attention to how you engage with your lawyer. Are they friendly, compassionate, and someone you feel comfortable with? A good lawyer will create a good rapport and understand that you’re dealing with a difficult situation. They’ll also be genuine and willing to listen and answer any questions/concerns you might have.

5. Big Firm versus Small Firm

Who will be handling your case? Some law firms are big and advertise on TV how they have recovered millions of dollars. Although it is illegal in Texas, don’t be surprised that these law firms will have representatives calling you and wanting you to hire their firm.  Be very cautious on signing any contract without first speaking with the attorney. In most big firms, you will be dealing with a “case manager” and not the attorney.

6. Location

When choosing a lawyer, you want one local to your state or city. For example, opting for a McKinney personal injury lawyer would be wise if you live in or around McKinney. Local lawyers are also well-versed in local laws and the local courts  that affect your claim. Finally, meeting physically when necessary will be easier for you and them.

7. Payment and Other Offers

Legal expenses can be costly. Though we don’t recommend choosing price over quality, opting for an overly expensive lawyer might significantly and unnecessarily eat up your savings or compensation if you win. In most personal injury cases, a contingency fee of 33 ⅓% should be the agreement, with an increase if your claim has to become a lawsuit. Ask questions about the expected costs that will be incurred for your case. You may also want to opt for lawyers offering free consultations and other benefits.

Do You Need a Lawyer for Your Claim?

Because most insurance companies will fight you to pay for your damages when you file any insurance claim, you need a lawyer from the beginning to help you with getting what you are entitled to from the other side.  Since they are not your insurance company, their job is to either not pay you for your damages, or low ball you on any offers to help save them money.  It is important to understand that the insurance company for the other driver is not your friend.  Studies show that personal injury victims represented by lawyers win relatively higher compensation in insurance claims than those without a lawyer.

Additionally, retaining a lawyer means you may concentrate on your recovery while someone who knows the job best fights for your rights. Lawyers also possess the expertise to litigate and go to trial to compel the insurance company to pay what you deserve.

Dale R. Rose: A Renowned, Experienced Texas Personal Injury Lawyer

It’s understandable and regrettable that you or a loved one got involved in an incident that led to injuries. If you suspect someone else’s negligence led to the accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Getting a lawyer is not only prudent but also crucial to getting a fair settlement and a quick recovery.

If you live in Collin County or Fannin County in Texas, Dale R. Rose can help. Dale has over 30 years of experience in personal injury cases in Texas, including car accidents, truck accidents, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip-and-fall accidents, and more. Our tenacity, experience, and expertise have earned us a reputation in Texas. Schedule a free, confidential consultation with our compassionate Texas personal injury lawyer by calling (972) 634-ROSE (7673) or contacting us online.