Bicycle accidents are typically insignificant, and very minimal casualties are recorded each year. However, there are certain instances when a bicycle accident might even necessitate a trial.
If it gets to this point, you would have to talk to a bicycle accident lawyer who is competent enough to ensure that none of your rights are trampled on. A good lawyer knows better than to trivialize a case, even if it’s a bicycle accident claim.
Taking time to find the right lawyer for your case will pay off eventually, especially if you’ve suffered serious injuries. Ensure that you do your due diligence when finding a lawyer and only hire one that ticks all your boxes.
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Criteria for Selecting the Right Bicycle Accident Attorney
Here are the factors you should keep in mind when selecting legal representation for bicycle accidents:
Insurance Negotiation Skills
Insurance companies can be challenging to deal with. They might try to lowball you with a settlement that doesn’t cover everything. Sometimes, they’ll send you an insurance adjuster who will try to trick you into settling for less. They act very friendly and pretend to care about your best interests, while in reality, they are simply looking for loopholes in your story that they can use against you to reduce your payout.
You need a lawyer who speaks their language and knows how to negotiate a fair deal. A competent lawyer can point out the traps that the adjusters are trying to set for you. They’ll ensure that all your dealings with them are strictly by the book.
Level of Trial Experience
Sometimes, insurance companies just don’t budge, even after a series of negotiations. That’s when you need a lawyer who’s comfortable taking them to court. Look for someone with experience in bike accident trials, a lawyer who’s not afraid to go the distance to get you the justice you deserve.
Communication Skills
The whole legal process can be confusing, especially if it’s your first time suing someone. You don’t know what to expect next, and the terms they throw around might confuse you even further.
You need a lawyer who explains things in plain English and keeps you updated on the progress of your case. Don’t settle for someone who leaves you feeling lost and confused.
Payment Plans
Ask for a detailed breakdown of any potential fees associated with your case. This could include hourly rates, flat fees for specific services, and any additional costs like filing fees or expert witnesses.
Contingency plans are what most lawyers offer. They take on your case with no upfront payment and get a certain commission from your settlement. While this is a great option, you should not forget to ask about the specific percentage they want to take in the end. Have an agreement on paper for documentation purposes.
Ability to Answer Questions
Choose a lawyer who’s comfortable explaining complex legal concepts in a way you understand. You should feel comfortable contacting your lawyer with any questions or concerns you have throughout your case.
Ask about their preferred communication style (phone calls, emails, in-person meetings) and how quickly you can expect a response when you reach out to them.
Knowing what’s happening every step of the way can increase your confidence in the case. It’ll also keep you informed; should you be called to testify, you’ll know exactly what to say.
Licensing
Qualifications matter when you’re picking a lawyer for your case. Make sure your chosen lawyer is licensed to practice law in the state where your case is being handled. You can verify this information on your state’s bar association website.
You can take your chances with a new lawyer as well, so long as they have the right qualifications, and adequate passion to pursue your case and get you the right results.
