Accident victims can file a personal injury claim to recover the losses they incur as a result of the accident. However, the victim will face many problems before obtaining compensation.
They will face the following challenges:
- Difficulty in determining liability
- Difficulty in calculating losses, especially non-economic losses
- Negotiating with the insurance company
You can overcome these challenges with the help of reputed law firms like Cory Watson Attorneys.
An attorney is the key to obtaining fair compensation. It is important to hire a good personal injury attorney.
Consider the following factors when hiring a lawyer:
- Experience and expertise
- Location
- Communication skills
- Availability
- Fee
The relationship with your lawyer is as important as hiring a good lawyer. It is important to develop a good relationship with your lawyer.
Follow the below tips for a better relationship with your lawyer:
Communicate frequently
Communication is key. It might sound like advice for newlywed couples, but it goes for lawyer-client relationships too.
Lawyers are great negotiators, but they are not good at mind-reading. You need to be honest with them and share your opinion.
Talk about the case with them frequently. Staying updated can be good for your case and develop the relationship too.
Be mindful of their time
Communicating frequently is good, but don’t take too much of their time. Remember that you are not their only client. So be mindful of their time.
Lawyers will appreciate you being mindful of their time. It can get you a good reputation.
Who knows, you may become their favorite client.
When they request a document, give it to them at the earliest. Also, when they request your presence at their office to meet an expert witness, make time and go.
Ask questions
By asking the right questions, you can understand your case and your attorney better.
It can open up conversations that would help build a good relationship. Ask the following questions to your attorney:
- How long would it take to resolve my case?
- How much do you charge?
- How much compensation can be expected?
- Should we file a lawsuit?
These are just some starter questions, which are important to ask. These questions can develop the relationship.
Set clear expectations
It is important to set clear expectations in the initial meeting. Your lawyer needs to know what your expectations are. They will work according to your expectations.
If the lawyer doesn’t know what you want, it is not possible to win your case. So be honest from the start.
Other tips that can help your case
- Medical attention: Never miss medical appointments. Not getting medical treatment can lead to complications, as insurance companies will claim that your injuries are severe.
- Photos and videos: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and property damage, if any.
- Witness information: Collect the contact information of witnesses. Your lawyer will speak with them and get them to give recorded statements.
- Do not speak with the insurance company: The insurance company will try to lower your compensation. Never speak with them without your attorney’s presence.
- Refuse the initial offer: The first offer will always be a lowball offer. Never accept that offer. It is best never to accept an offer unless your lawyer approves.
- Say no to social media: The content you post on social media can be used against you. It is best to not post anything until the case is resolved.
Final thoughts
A lawyer’s role is crucial in obtaining fair compensation. You can improve your chances of winning by developing a good relationship with your lawyer. Follow the tips in this blog post to become your lawyer’s best client.