If you’ve ever been in a motor vehicle accident, you know how overwhelming the experience can be. Trying to manage vehicle damages, time away from work, and talking to your insurance can feel like a lot.
Working with an experienced car accident lawyer (also referred to as a personal injury lawyer) is important. Individuals skilled in this type of law can help alleviate any extra stress caused by a car accident. They can handle the paperwork, expedite the claims process, and guide you throughout the entire process, ensuring you receive the appropriate compensation that you deserve.
But with the many personal injury lawyers from across Alberta, how do you know which will best represent you and your case?
We suggest doing your research! Narrow down your search to 3 law firms, and then pick up the phone and ask them these 4 questions.
1. Have you handled a similar motor vehicle case in Alberta, and what was the outcome?
This is probably the most important question to ask. Take a moment to describe your motor vehicle situation to the lawyer, and then ask if they’ve experienced similar cases. Knowing they’ve handled similar claims, like a left-across-traffic accident or getting in an accident when driving someone else’s car, gives you extra confidence that they can handle your situation.
Due to confidentiality, lawyers won’t be able to share all the details of a case. However, they should be able to share what their experience was with a similar claim.
Tip: Don’t take “YES” as an answer. Ask probing questions, such as “did you have to go to trial” or “what were their results.”
2. How long will it take to process my claim?
If this is your first time making a claim, you might not be aware of how long your case could take.
Though your lawyer won’t be able to tell you exact timelines, they should be able to give you a general idea based on different possibilities. This will also set you up with appropriate expectations, as some car accident cases may take years to resolve, not months.
3. What should I do right now?
A good personal injury lawyer should provide you with support and guidance right away. Yes, their knowledge is valuable; however, if their response is “we provide guidance after you choose to work with us,” then that could be a red flag that they are in it for only one thing.
- Instead, they should recommend that you:
- Write down and journal your daily symptoms (example: headaches, pain, difficulty sleeping).
- Save all receipts and expenses.
- Begin tracking your mileage to and from doctor appointments.
- Don’t post anything on social media.
- Etc.
These are simple things that can help you in the long run, regardless of which law firm you choose.
4. What would you do in my position?
At McGuiness Law, we offer free consultations and assessments. Honesty and transparency are part of our core values. Our team has enough experience to tell you if working with a lawyer is indeed a good idea or not. For example, if we believe that our fee will result in you receiving a lower settlement than what the insurance company offers, we will not take on your case.
What to do next?
Once you’ve asked these questions, assess to see if there were any similarities in answers. Also, make a note of how you felt speaking to each law firm. Did they make you feel comfortable, or did you feel nervous and self-conscious about asking questions?
In the end, you want to work with a lawyer who has both the experience and makes you feel supported and heard. Choosing a motor vehicle accident lawyer is a big decision, so make sure they feel like the right fit for you!
At McGuiness Law, we proudly support both rural and urban clientele across Alberta. We offer free consultations and will only take on your case if we know it will benefit you.
Book your FREE CONSULTATION with McGuiness Law today by calling 780-900-7941.