Story
You still remember the sound. Loud. Tires screeching. Then … explosion and darkness followed.
Your whole life stood still. Images from the past raced through your mind. Slowly you open your
eyes. Blood on your face feels warm. You cannot move. You hear sirens. “Are you ok?” somebody
inquires. Your car is being towed. Ambulance attendants approach. Are you going to be ok?
Will you be able to work? Will you be able to provide for your family? Are you scared?
Lawyer and Client Roles
I know how it feels because I have been injured before.I understand the fears, the frustrations, financial difficulties and the whole process. When I am hired by a client my role is to negotiate the best possible settlement for my client based on medical (and other) evidence gathered in the case. That is my role.
What is yours?
- You must follow my advice
- You must follow your doctor’s (and others involved in your rehabilitation process) recommendations for treatment
- Also tell your doctor not only what hurts but also what you cannot do (because of the accident related injury) at home, at work and your leisure time.
What is a Contingency Agreement?
When you hire a lawyer to help you get a settlement it is important to sign an agreement in writing in which the lawyer explains how she/he will charge for the service. It should be witnessed and you should get a copy of it after the first meeting.
How do I get charged?
Lawyers usually charge a percentage (25 – 35 %) of the settlement money received at the end of the case and cover all disbursements; for example, payments for medical reports, treatment charts and filing fees in Court until the case is settled. Usually you will not be responsible for any payments for any documents or expert witnesses until your lawyer receives the settlement money from the insurance company of the person responsible for the accident.
Wouldn’t you like to give your lawyer the best tools so she could build the best case for you?
What to do when involved in a car accident
