Car accidents can be some of the most traumatic and life-changing experiences to experience. Whether you’ve been involved in a minor fender bender or a severe collision, the aftermath of any accident can be overwhelming.
If you have been injured in a Long Island car crash due to someone’s negligence, you’ll need to hire a competent attorney who can help you navigate the claims process and litigate on your behalf. Choosing the right car accident lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of an injury claim.
Experience and Expertise
Look for an attorney with proven experience handling car accident cases and a deep knowledge about personal injury law in New York. As most attorneys practice in specific fields, you’ll want to consult with those who have a proven track record of representing clients in car accident claims.
Established personal injury lawyers should also have expertise in negotiating with insurance companies and familiarity with local and state court systems. If you were injured in Nassau County, it would be wise to hire a local attorney who knows the ins and outs of the region’s courts.
Communication and Availability
Choosing an attorney who is easy to communicate with and who can answer your questions and concerns is a wise decision. Many times, experiences with an attorney can feel impersonal, so you should strive to work with someone who you can trust and who can provide a high level of care and customer service. You should feel comfortable asking your attorney about the progress of your case and be confident that you’re receiving timely updates as needed.
Reputation and References
Researching a potential attorney’s reputation and reading online reviews from their past clients is wise. You can also ask for references and contact those former clients to better understand their experience in working with the attorney.
Fees and Payment
Ensure you understand the attorney’s fee structure and how they will be paid. Regarding personal injuries in New York, most attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means they’ll only get paid if they win your case.
What to Expect in a Long Island Car Accident Case
The legal process of filing a car accident claim and lawsuit in New York involves various steps. Every car crash claim is unique, but you can expect most claims to follow a structure similar to the following:
Reporting the Accident
The first step after a car accident is to report it to the police and your insurance company.
Medical Treatment
Seek medical treatment for any injuries you sustained in the accident, and make sure you keep all medical records and bills related to your treatment handy.
Investigation
Your attorney will investigate the accident thoroughly, collect evidence, interview witnesses, hire experts, if needed, and develop your case.
Negotiation
Generally, a personal injury claim may involve negotiating with an insurance company to settle your case out of court. Your attorney will work hard to try to reach a fair settlement that can cover losses such as your medical bills, property damage, and lost income.
Trial
When a settlement cannot be reached, your case will likely proceed to trial, where your attorney will represent you in court and present evidence to support your claim.
Nassau Car Accident Attorneys Can Help
Choosing the right car crash attorney is vital for the success of your injury claim, and when searching for a lawyer, it’s critical to consider how experience, communication, reputation, and fees will come into play.
Call Kohan Law Group today if you were injured in a Nassau car crash. Our personal injury firm is dedicated to providing a personalized experience for clients and fighting for their rightful compensation.