If you have had a car accident in West Virginia, and now you’re home from the hospital, the next thing you want is to find the right lawyer, because you are concerned about hospital bills, how to afford to fix your car, and lost wages from missing work. But if you’ve never had to find a lawyer, you may not know what to do. You know insurance companies are likely going to try and get you to take a small settlement.
Because your future is such an important matter, it’s important that you find the right lawyer for your case and get the compensation you need and deserve. But it’s not always the lawyer with the biggest billboard or the most TV commercials. What you need is to find the right lawyer for you.
Experience
The lawyer you select should have experience with West Virginia personal injury cases including car accidents. This includes trial experience, because not all cases settle out of court.
Insurance companies work hard to minimize your settlement and deny your claim to pay you nothing. The attorney you work with should have experience negotiating with insurance companies, not just settling your case. If you’ve suffered considerable losses, need long-term medical care, and need compensation to cover those and more, a “quick check” won’t cover everything.
Ask about communication—will you speak directly with the attorney, or will you have a point of contact? How often will you hear from them, or will you need to check in periodically?
During your first consultation, the attorneys will generally not provide legal advice but may make some suggestions and advise you of your options.
You’ll also need to discuss fees at the initial consultation to understand what you’ll be responsible for covering during the case.
Finding The Right Lawyer For You
Most people now go online to find a car accident lawyer. Or they call the number on a billboard or on TV. That’s one way to find someone, but shouldn’t be the only route.
The West Virginia State Bar offers an online referral service for the public. Some lawyers may offer a free consultation, while others charge a small fee of $25 or less for a 30-minute consultation. In addition to personal injury, you can find attorneys for a range of legal issues through the referral service. The Bar also has a website for free legal answers where you can just ask a question through a private messaging system.
Ask friends and family for a referral, since they may have worked with someone they liked. Ask the lawyer you previously worked for another matter with if they can recommend a car accident lawyer. Chances are they know someone, too, either from law school, a previous practice, or through the Bar Association.
Before settling on your final choice, make sure to search Google and other non-related review sites to find out what clients and former clients are really saying about them, and if the attorney has responded to any negative reviews. Don’t rely on the great reviews you see on their website.
It’s Your Choice
In your search, you may find several lawyers who fit the bill, but you’re not completely comfortable working with. Even if the reviews and recommendations are good, you need to be comfortable sharing a part of your life with someone who can represent you during a difficult time.
The sooner you can engage a West Virginia accident attorney, the better, and the easier time you’ll have to take care of yourself and heal from your injuries.
Let The Love Law Firm Help After A Car Accident
For more than 25 years, The Love Law Firm has helped Virginians after car accidents. From police reports to repairs to dealing with insurance companies, we’re ready to help you navigate through the complexities of a car accident case. Don’t say anything to anyone—or speak with any insurance adjuster—until you speak with West Virginia accident attorney Chad Love first.
If you need help after a car accident in Charleston, contact us at The Love Law Firm, or call us at (304) 344 5683. Your consultation is free, and we only collect if we win your case.