When you or someone you love has been injured or harmed in a semi-truck accident and you decide to pursue financial compensation, the first step is finding a lawyer.
Finding a good lawyer is perhaps the most important thing you will do when it comes to filing a personal injury claim after a semi-truck accident. Truck accident cases require highly specialized knowledge, both of the law and its application in the trucking industry. A good lawyer can mean the difference between a big financial payout and marginally losing the case.
To find out how much your case is worth and how much you could be entitled to, contact Keller and Keller, today.
Step 1: Contact Others Who Have Been Involved in a Semi-Truck Accident
When it comes to something as specific as a truck accident injury claim, it is unlikely that your friends and family have any previous experience with truck accident lawyers. This makes it difficult to get personalized recommendations.
Instead, reach out to others who have been involved in a similar case. There are forums and online communities of people who have suffered from a similar fate to yours. Not only can these people provide emotional support, but they can put you in contact with a good attorney (or at least advise you against a bad one).
Step 2: Interview Several Different Lawyers
When you have a shortlist of attorneys that have ample experience at semi-truck accident cases, it is worth arranging a time to meet and have an initial consultation.
The consultation is as much for them to get an idea of the value of your case, as it is for you to evaluate them. You want to use this initial discussion to determine if they are the right person to handle your case.
Step 3: Ask the Right Questions
Ask how many cases they have handled in the past which sound similar to yours and be sure to check their professional credentials.
Ask for a clear description of the process you are about to face, as well as clarification over who exactly will be working on your case. Some attorneys get their paralegals and clerks to do the legwork, meaning you won’t be working with the attorney directly.
Ultimately, you want to go with an attorney that puts you at ease and makes you feel comfortable. If you don’t leave the meeting with an indication that this person is the right person to represent you, then don’t hire them.
Step 4: Weigh Up the Costs
While the cost shouldn’t be the most important factor in your decision, it will likely be a factor. Be clear on how your attorney calculates the costs and at what stage of the process they will require payment.
Step 5: Carry Out a Background Check
When you have found an attorney you are comfortable with and are satisfied with their experience, conduct a background check with your local disciplinary agency to verify their credentials.
Here is a listing of each state’s local lawyer disciplinary agency. Your local agency will be able to confirm the attorney’s bar membership and is held in good standing.
Once you are satisfied with their credentials, you can hire your lawyer and start making strides towards your case!