If you have recently been injured in a car accident, now is the time to pursue compensation and protect your rights. The best way to do this is to secure representation from a qualified car accident attorney in Columbia, but how do you choose the right one? Do you pick the one on the billboard by the highway, the first one on your Google search results page, or the one your coworker used two years ago? The number of choices can be daunting. Choosing a car accident attorney in Columbia can be confusing if you have never been through this process before. This guide can help you narrow down your choices and ultimately choose the attorney that will get you the results you deserve and be the right one for you.
Questions to Ask a Car Accident Attorney in Columbia, South Carolina
Before hiring a car accident attorney in Columbia, there are several questions you will want to ask them. First, most attorneys will offer a no-obligation case review before you hire them, either in person or by phone. This is your opportunity to ask these questions and find out if the attorney is someone you can see yourself working closely with for several months or even a year or more. You should ask them the following questions:
- How long have you been an attorney?
- Do you have experience in car accident claims similar to mine?
- If so, what were the results?
- Are you in good standing with the South Carolina State Bar?
- Have you received any recent awards or recognitions?
- What are your past clients saying about you?
- Do you have time to work on my case now?
- Will you be working on my case, or will it be another lawyer or paralegal?
- How quickly do you return phone calls or emails?
- Are you willing to take my case to trial?
- What do you think my case is worth?
- What are the strengths and weaknesses in my case?
- Do you work on contingency fees?
- How much are your fees?
Expert Tips to Choose the Right Car Accident Attorney in Columbia, South Carolina
Get Referrals
Just like you would if you needed someone to work on your house or you wanted to try a new fancy restaurant, talk to others about their experiences and whom they would recommend. With so many car accidents happening in this state, you likely know someone—a friend, neighbor, coworker, client, or even relative that has hired a car accident attorney in Columbia in the last several years.
Focus on Communication
Do you have a good rapport after meeting the attorney? Does it seem like they make client communication a priority? Car accident claims can be stressful, and victims often have many questions. Having a lawyer who communicates frequently and thoroughly can put your mind at ease and make this process much smoother.
Do They Play Hardball with Insurance Companies?
Since your claim is only worth what the insurance company is willing to settle for, you want a car accident attorney in Columbia with a proven track record of playing hardball with the insurance companies. You want your attorney to have a reputation for maximizing their clients’ compensation by standing up to big and aggressive insurance companies. When the insurance company finds out who your lawyer is, you want them to know they will be forced to pay the maximum settlement or go to court.
Exploring the Benefits of Engaging a Car Accident Attorney in Columbia, South Carolina
Engaging a car accident attorney in Columbia has countless benefits that make your life easier. At the same time, you recover from your injuries, and to help you recover as much compensation as possible. For instance, when you hire an attorney, they take over communications with the insurance company. You don’t have to be bothered by their phone calls or requests for documents. Also, by not having to speak to the insurance adjuster, you protect yourself from saying something that might be harmful to your claim or falling for a low-ball settlement offer.
Your attorney will handle all the details of your case so that you have the time and space you need to heal. Your attorney and their staff will take care of many tasks, including:
- Talking to any eyewitnesses
- Obtaining police reports
- Getting copies of your relevant medical records
- Filing your insurance claim
- Filing court documents
In addition, car accident attorneys know what your case is worth. Insurance companies know they can’t play games and use their usual tactics on experienced attorneys. Therefore, they are more likely to offer settlements that provide you with full and fair compensation for your damages. Accident victims with legal representation typically secure more compensation than those without.
Costs to Consider When Choosing a Car Accident Attorney in Columbia, South Carolina
Sadly, many individuals injured in motor vehicle accidents don’t seek the services of a car accident attorney in Columbia because they are afraid they can’t afford legal help. The reality is that most Columbia car accident lawyers offer free initial consultations and work on contingency fees. At the Louthian Law Firm, we offer both.
With contingency fee arrangements, the injured party pays nothing for their legal services until the attorney obtains compensation on their behalf. If the attorney doesn’t settle their claim or win a court award, the injured party owes the attorney nothing. If and when they do secure compensation through a settlement or court award, the attorney is paid a pre-determined portion of those funds. However, keep in mind that the attorney’s office may or may not absorb other costs and fees associated with your claim, including:
- Court filing fees
- Expert witness costs
- Postage, copies, and other document costs
Even after paying their attorney and other potential associated fees, the vast majority of car accident victims receive more money for their claims than they would have if they didn’t have a car accident attorney in Columbia on their side.
Are you Looking for a Car Accident Attorney in Columbia?
If you are looking for a reputable car accident attorney in Columbia, South Carolina, look no further than the Louthian Law Firm. We have convenient office locations in Columbia and Charleston to better serve your needs. For over a half-century, our experienced attorneys have obtained millions of dollars in settlements and court awards for South Carolinians who have been injured in car accidents and other ways. Our attorneys know what it takes to get the best results in each case, and we work tirelessly for that outcome.
We offer free case consultations for injured parties and their families. Call 803-454-1200 or contact us online to schedule yours today.
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