What to Expect When You Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Pennsylvania
The first thing to expect when you hire a car accident lawyer in Pennsylvania is a session to discuss all matters pertaining to your accident. Your attorney will want to know everything you can possibly tell him or her about the accident. That includes a description of where it happened plus your route and the route of the other driver. Additionally, you need to determine what materials you have that could help the attorney.
Depending on the severity of the wreck, did you take any pictures of your car or the scene? Do you have the names and contact information for any witnesses? Did you give a statement to any police on the scene? Your lawyer will need all of that information before beginning his or her investigation into your case.
Describe Accident and All Details
During your meeting with your accident attorney, it’s important to ask any questions that you may have about the details of your case and the lawyer’s experience. Take a little time to get to know the attorney and to feel comfortable with him or her. If all goes well during that first meeting, you should expect to sign a contract. Most accident lawyers will offer a contingency fee agreement. That means that you don’t pay the attorney until you receive your settlement. The agreement usually details a specific percentage that is paid to the accident attorney. Costs are generally billed as they are incurred.
Follow Any Advice from Your Lawyer
While your attorney is investigating the case, you will generally be asked to have as little contact as possible with your insurance company or with anyone representing the other driver. Don’t sign any documents, engage in any extended telephone conversations that could be recorded or offer to give any recorded statements without checking first with your accident attorney.
Time Frame for Every Accident Case is Different
How long will it take to settle your case? That’s the $64,000 question for most people involved in accidents. Unfortunately, there is no simple answer. Generally speaking, the fewer complications and disagreements in your case, the quicker the process to a settlement. But if the other driver had no insurance or was underinsured, or if your attorney discovers the other driver was impaired at the time of the wreck, these are issues that can often slow down the process.
Expect the First Offer from Your Insurer to be Rejected
One thing you should expect is an offer from your insurer that is lower than the amount your attorney believes the case is worth. The fact is that your insurance company is a business and will try to keep costs as low as possible. It can be difficult financially and emotionally to have to wait, but most settlement negotiations are a process and your lawyer will know when the offer is fair and when it’s time to go to trial.