Proven Methods Used by Reputable Accident Attorneys
A car accident can lead to devastating injuries, emotional trauma, and debts. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, working with a car accident lawyer can be beneficial for your case. Reputable accident attorneys use a variety of proven strategies to help clients secure the compensation they need.
This post will highlight several of the methods frequently employed by experienced legal professionals.
Investigating Thoroughly to Establish Liability
Most personal injury lawyers begin with a thorough investigation, during which they gather evidence to build a compelling case for their client. This process often involves:
Obtaining and reviewing police and accident reports
Collecting witness and passenger statements
Analyzing photos and video footage from the scene of the accident
Examining the damaged vehicle(s) and crash site in person
Gathering available medical records and bills to document injuries
Consulting specialists to provide further information and context
Establishing clear liability can help an attorney hold the negligent parties accountable and improve the client’s chances of receiving adequate compensation.
Using Expert Witnesses to Strengthen Claims
A reputable accident attorney will often consult one or more expert witnesses to solicit insights and feedback that support their client’s case. These authorities may include:
Medical professionals to testify about injuries and required treatments
Accident reconstruction specialists to explain how the crash occurred and highlight any significant details
Financial experts to assess past and future lost earnings
Engineers to determine whether a vehicle defect might have contributed to the accident in some way
Expert testimony can have a big impact on settlement negotiations and litigation, helping validate claims and counter arguments from the defense.
Negotiating Fair Settlements
It’s a fairly common practice for insurance companies to attempt to minimize payouts, often offering settlements that don’t cover the full extent of a victim’s losses. Skilled attorneys use strategic negotiation techniques and their knowledge of insurer tactics to advocate for clients’ interests.
Some of their methods include:
Presenting strong evidence to support the client’s claim
Noting issues with policy coverage limits and legal concerns
Countering lowball settlement offers
Taking cases to court if negotiations are ineffective
A car accident attorney’s negotiation skills can mean the difference between accepting an inadequate settlement and receiving comprehensive financial benefits to aid recovery.
Getting Cases Trial-Ready if Necessary
A dependable attorney will always prepare for the possibility of a trial, even though most car accident claims are settled outside of court. This readiness to litigate can keep the insurance companies on their toes and ensure that the client’s case is taken seriously, leading to a better settlement offer.
Communicating Effectively With Clients
A reputable attorney who has their client’s best interests at heart will be an effective communicator above all else.
Personal injury claims are often emotionally overwhelming, and state laws can be confusing for clients who already have a lot on their minds. A lawyer who prioritizes transparency and open communication can build a solid foundation of trust, which is the bedrock of any successful attorney-client relationship.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Attorney
When selecting a car accident lawyer, it’s important to consider their experience, reputation, and track record of handling claims like yours. Some of the qualities of a great attorney include:
A history of positive outcomes demonstrated by client testimonials
Extensive knowledge of and experience with car accident cases
An empathetic, client-focused approach
If you or a loved one have been hurt in an accident, don’t settle for less than you deserve. The attorneys at Schiff & Associates have been fighting for the rights of accident victims for over 40 years and have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for clients in that time. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.