When consulting with a car accident lawyer, asking the right questions can help you determine their experience, approach, and whether they’re the right fit for your case. Here are the top questions to ask during your consultation:
1. Experience & Expertise
How long have you been handling car accident cases?
Do you specialize in car accidents, or is it just one of many areas you practice?
Have you handled cases similar to mine (e.g., hit-and-run, drunk driving, multi-vehicle crashes)?
What is your success rate with car accident claims?
2. Case Assessment & Strategy
Based on my situation, what are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
How do you determine the value of my claim (medical bills, lost wages, pain & suffering)?
What kind of evidence should I gather to support my claim?
Will you handle negotiations with the insurance company?
3. Legal Process & Timeline
How long do you expect my case to take?
What steps are involved in resolving my claim?
Will my case likely settle out of court, or should I prepare for a trial?
4. Fees & Costs
Do you work on a contingency fee basis (no win, no fee)?
What percentage will you take if we win?
Are there any upfront costs or hidden fees I should know about?
Who covers expenses if the case is lost?
5. Communication & Availability
Who will be my main point of contact—you or a paralegal/assistant?
How often will you update me on my case?
What’s the best way to reach you if I have urgent questions?
6. Potential Outcomes
What is a realistic settlement amount I could expect?
What factors could reduce my compensation?
Have you taken cases to trial before, and what were the outcomes?
7. Client References & Reviews
Can you provide references from past clients with similar cases?
Do you have online reviews or testimonials I can check?
8. Next Steps
What should I do (or avoid doing) while my case is pending?
Do I need to keep seeing doctors or documenting my injuries?
When can we start the legal process?
Asking these questions will help you choose the best lawyer for your case and set clear expectations. The right attorney should be transparent, experienced, and communicative.
