A car accident lawyer is someone who can help you obtain compensation for the physical, emotional and financial costs associated with your auto crash. This compensation can include payment for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, loss of companionship and more. In cases of wrongful death, the lawyer may also help to recover funeral expenses and other monetary damages.
When hiring a car accident lawyer, look for one who has extensive experience in this area of law. A car accident attorney who has taken multiple cases to trial will have more litigation skills and a greater understanding of how to successfully negotiate with insurance companies to get the maximum settlement possible.
It’s also important to find a car accident lawyer who is able to communicate well with you. During your free consultation, you should be able to ask questions and evaluate the lawyer’s ability to clearly explain the legal process.
In addition, your lawyer should have experience investigating and preparing complex personal injury claims. This includes gathering evidence, such as police reports and witness statements, as well as obtaining medical records and bills and employment and lost wage information. Many lawyers have a team of dedicated paralegals and assistants who assist them in these efforts. This allows them to focus on building a strong case for their clients.
Once you hire a car accident lawyer, they will conduct a thorough investigation of your case. They will review the accident report and other evidence, such as photos and witness testimonies. They will also conduct interviews with you and any other people who were involved in your accident. They will document all of the facts related to your accident, including who they believe was at fault and any citations that were issued by law enforcement officers.
A good car accident lawyer will be able to explain how the law applies to your specific situation and how the damages you’re entitled to can be calculated. This can be especially helpful if you’re dealing with an insurer that has denied or minimized your claim.
Your attorney can file a lawsuit against the at-fault party and their insurer if they are unwilling to make a reasonable settlement offer. This lawsuit will include a request for punitive damages, which are designed to punish the defendant for their particularly reprehensible conduct. A court will only award punitive damages if they can show that the defendant’s actions were “highly reprehensible” or that they displayed “a great deal of moral turpitude.”
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact Raphaelson & Levine today to discuss your legal options. We have helped thousands of victims and their families get the justice they deserve. We don’t charge any upfront attorneys’ fees; instead, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you only pay us if we win your case. Call our office to schedule a free consultation with one of our top-rated New York City car accident lawyers.