What to Look For in a Car Accident Lawyer: 6 Key Qualities

Hiring a personal injury lawyer can help you get compensation if you were recently involved in a car accident. In 2021, over 61,000 car crashes occurred in Utah, with more than 300 fatalities. Utah road deaths increased significantly during the pandemic as drivers engaged in riskier driving behavior. 

The aftermath of a road accident can be stressful, causing serious injuries, property damage, and hefty medical bills. In this time of distress, choosing the right car accident lawyer is one of the most important decisions you have to make. A reliable and experienced lawyer can represent you and help you get financial compensation for your losses. 

Before you begin your search, it is critical to review what to look for in a car accident lawyer. Explore how the right personal injury lawyer can help, the qualities you should look for when seeking a car accident lawyer and how Ipson Law can make a difference for your case. 

Common Causes of Utah Car Accidents 

According to the Utah Department of Health, a car crash occurs on a Utah road every eight minutes. Motor vehicle accidents continue to be a public health concern for Utahns, leading to severe injuries and fatalities. 

Before we dive into what to look for in a car accident lawyer, it helps to understand the top causes of accidents and how to prevent them. Below are the significant factors contributing to car accidents in Utah. 

1. Age-Related Factors

Teen drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in car accidents, typically due to their inexperience. In 2021, teen drivers accounted for over 13,000 vehicle crashes in Utah, making them the top age group involved in car accidents. 

In the same year, 8,000 car accidents involved elderly drivers. While age is not a defining factor for accidents, these statistics reveal how critical it is for drivers to be skilled, knowledgeable, and responsive on the road. 

2. Speeding 

Speeding makes accidents more likely because drivers have less time to react and avoid dangers on the road. In 2020, speeding was involved in 29% of all traffic fatalities in the United States, leading to more than 11,000 deaths. With these staggering statistics, it’s no surprise that speeding is part of Utah’s major causes of vehicular accidents, with 31% of car accidents attributed to this driving behavior in 2021. 

3. Distracted Driving

A distraction is anything that takes a driver’s attention off the road. Depending on the driver, this may involve using a phone, eating or drinking, or talking with passengers in the backseat. 

Distracted driving accounted for over 5,000 car crashes in Utah in 2021. Drivers can prevent this risk by focusing on their surroundings while on the road. 

4. Holiday-Related Factors 

With over 8,000 vehicle crashes attributed to holiday events, this factor is among Utah’s top five causes of car accidents in 2021. Driving on holidays is deadlier for several reasons, including increased alcohol consumption and road congestion. 

Why You Need a Car Accident Lawyer 

After getting into a car accident, you may need to seek medical help, have your car repaired, and miss work. During this stressful time, a car accident lawyer can help protect your rights to ensure that you can focus on your recovery. 

While you can technically handle an auto accident case on your own, having an experienced lawyer by your side improves the odds of the best outcome for your claim. Before learning what to look for in a car accident lawyer, let’s explore how an attorney can help your case:  

• Walk You Through Complex Legal Procedures: There is no substitute for expert legal help. Experienced car accident lawyers will help you understand the complexities of the legal process, saving you time on research so you can focus on recovering.
• Determine the Amount of Compensation You Deserve: A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will ensure that you receive just compensation in accordance with lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. 
• Gather Evidence to Support Your Claim: Through an investigation, your lawyer will gather substantial evidence to support your claim to insurers and in court, if necessary. Evidence may include video footage, accident reports, medical records, and statements from witnesses.
• Negotiate and Represent You in Court: Some insurance companies will pay you less than your claim is worth or deny your claim altogether. A skilled car accident lawyer will present sufficient evidence to support your claim and appeal for you if it gets rejected.

What to Look For in a Car Accident Lawyer: 6 Key Factors To Consider 

The legal proceedings involved with a road accident require years of experience and legal expertise. Unfortunately, most people only realize how hard it is to find the right personal injury lawyer once they’re experiencing the situation. Below are the most critical factors you should consider when looking for a lawyer for a car accident. 

1. Experience and Specialization

Law is a broad field with many applications and areas of expertise. Some law firms may handle a wide range of matters, including real estate transactions, divorces, worker’s compensation, and corporate law. While these firms can handle a variety of cases, selecting one that specializes in personal injury and has expertise in vehicle accident claims is preferable.  

Finding a lawyer with a firm understanding of Utah law is also essential. Choosing a lawyer with experience in your specific issue will help you obtain the best representation for your unique situation.

2. Proven Track Record 

When facing a car accident case, you’ll want to work with a lawyer with a proven track record of success in similar cases. A good track record is a strong indicator of competence and the ability to help you get compensation, especially if your case involves serious injuries and damages. Reputable law firms typically provide client testimonials and statistics of past case results on their website. 

3. Reputation 

A good reputation and access to the proper resources are critical aspects of what to look for in a car accident lawyer. Follow these steps when reviewing whether a firm is the right fit:

• Perform research online
• Read reviews from past clients
• Observe their office during the consultation

A presentable and organized office indicates that a firm is running a professional business and can perform the investigative work needed for car accident cases. 

4. Communication Skills 

After a car accident you’re likely facing significant stress and a long recuperation process. When you pursue a personal injury claim while dealing with this situation, you’ll want a lawyer who can communicate well to keep you in the loop. 

A lawyer with good communication skills can translate complex legal procedures, laws, compensation estimates, and other concepts in ways you can understand. Likewise, you’ll want to work with a professional who can empathize with your situation and communicate with you as a layperson, setting aside their legal expertise to treat you with respect. 

5. Availability 

In addition to good communication skills, you’ll want to find a lawyer who can keep their line open. Choose a firm that respects your time and returns phone calls promptly when you have questions about your case. If you set a meeting, all involved parties should be on time. 

6. Legal Fees

You may encounter several fee arrangements when looking for a lawyer for a car accident. Some firms offer free consultations you can take advantage of to discuss your case and ask about payment options. 

A reputable car accident lawyer will provide you with a transparent fee arrangement to inform you of the charges you’ll incur while they are working on your case, as well as how the fees will be paid. Some attorneys only collect payment after wrapping up a case, taking a portion of the damages allotted.

How Ipson Law’s Car Accident Lawyers Can Help

Experiencing a car accident can be a life-altering event. Finding an experienced personal injury lawyer to represent your case can help ensure you get the compensation you deserve. If you’re looking for a legal expert who meets the outlined qualities of what to look for in a car accident lawyer, Ipson Law Firm can help. 

Our experienced lawyers have extensive expertise and knowledge to provide the best legal counsel for your situation. We offer free case reviews to help clients understand their legal options and provide prompt service for peace of mind. Reach out today to learn how we can help.