What to Expect During a Free Consultation with a Car Accident Lawyer
By Ben Gobel on October 29, 2024
If you have been injured in a car accident in Pittsburgh, PA, your first step after receiving emergency medical treatment should be to schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer. Free consultations with personal injury law firms entail a no-cost, no-obligation meeting with a personal injury lawyer to discuss your case, learn about the lawyer’s experience and track record of success, and understand how they can help you pursue compensation. Speak with a lawyer about your car accident case today.
What Happens During a Free Consultation for Car Accidents
Overview of Your Car Accident Case
The first part of the free consultation with a car accident attorney involves discussing the details of your car crash. The attorney will ask you a series of questions aimed at understanding the circumstances surrounding the collision, the extent of your injuries, and the damages you have incurred.
Typical questions may include:
- When and where did the accident occur?
- What were the weather and road conditions at the time?
- Were there any witnesses?
- What type of injuries did you sustain, and have you received medical treatment?
- Have you spoken with the insurance company, and if so, what was discussed?
Legal Analysis and Case Evaluation
Once the personal injury attorney has gathered the basic facts, they will provide a preliminary analysis of your case. This analysis typically includes:
- Liability Assessment: The lawyer will explain how fault is determined in Pennsylvania car accident cases, which operate under a modified comparative negligence rule. In Pennsylvania, you can recover compensation if you are less than 51% at fault for the accident.
- Potential for Compensation: Based on the information you provide, the attorney will discuss the types of damages you might be able to recover. These can include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
- Legal Process Overview: The lawyer will explain the typical process for pursuing a car accident claim, from filing a lawsuit to settlement negotiations or trial. This includes important deadlines, such as Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations, which gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Explanation of Your Legal Rights
During a car accident lawyer free consultation, the attorney will take the time to explain your legal rights in plain language, ensuring you understand your position as a victim in a car accident. In Pennsylvania, you have the right to seek compensation if another party’s negligence caused your injuries. The lawyer may provide guidance on whether your case should be pursued through an insurance claim, a lawsuit, or a combination of both.
Discussion of Fees and Payment Structure
Most personal injury attorneys in Pittsburgh operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any upfront fees, and the lawyer only gets paid if they recover compensation for you, either through a settlement or court judgment. This payment structure ensures that you can pursue legal action without worrying about out-of-pocket expenses, making legal representation accessible to those who need it most.
Next Steps and Recommendations
At the conclusion of the consultation, the lawyer will outline the next steps in your personal injury case. They recommend that you avoid speaking with insurance adjusters without legal representation, as anything you say could be used to reduce your compensation. If the car accident attorneys believe you have a strong case, they will propose moving forward by signing a representation agreement.
How to Prepare for Your Free Consultation
To make the most of your free initial consultation with a law firm’s personal injury lawyers, bring whatever relevant documentation you may have with you.
- Accident Report: If available, bring a copy of the police report from your accident.
- Medical Records: Documentation of your injuries and treatment is vital. This includes hospital records, medical bills, and prescriptions related to the accident.
- Insurance Information: Please have details of your auto insurance policy, including personal injury protection insurance, if available.
- Photos or Videos: If you have pictures or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, or your injuries, these can be invaluable in supporting your case.
- List of Witnesses: Provide contact information for any witnesses to the accident, which can bolster your personal injury claim.
- Your Questions: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, fees, or the lawyer’s experience. This ensures that you don’t forget essential topics during the meeting.
Schedule Your Free Consultation With Our Pittsburgh Car Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t wait—reach out to our experienced Pittsburgh car accident lawyers at Ogg, Murphy & Perkosky today. With over $250 million recovered for our clients, including multi-million-dollar personal injury settlements and verdicts, our lawyers will relentlessly fight for the most extensive possible compensation for your injuries and losses. To schedule your free consultation, call us at (412) 203-8159 or contact us online.