Auto Accident Attorney Fees: What to Expect?

When tragedy strikes, the last thing on your mind should be legal fees. In fact, after safety, the next thing on your mind might be car repair fees or even medical bills. Unfortunately, legal fees are just as much an element of auto accidents as police reports and insurance premiums. A way to manage your legal fees is by choosing the right auto accident attorney. 

If you’ve been in an accident, and are trying to find out how much it will cost, you’ve come to the right place. DeHoyos Accident Attorneys have compiled a list of the usual legal costs as well as some general advice. The important thing to remember is that these are general estimates, and your car accident case is always going to be unique. For personalized advice tailored to your exact situation, call our office today. The first consultation is always free. 

The Personal Injury Attorney Fee Structure 

Auto accident attorneys typically follow a contingency fee structure. A contingency fee structure means that the attorney’s fees for representing you in a case, are contingent upon winning the case or securing the settlement. 

In this arrangement, you don’t pay any upfront fees and you don’t pay the attorney an hourly rate or a retainer fee. Payment is made upon successful representation of your case, and the attorney is paid a percentage of the settlement when the case is successful. There is no fee if you don’t collect for your damages, so you do not owe the attorney any money if you don’t receive money yourself. 

This structure is common in personal injury cases, including auto accidents, because it allows people to seek legal representation without having the immediate money to pay for it. It also aligns the attorney’s interests with yours, so they are motivated to maximize your compensation.

How Much are Auto Accident Attorney Fees? 

Contingency fees aren’t only based on whether you win your settlement. They are also based on how much you win. To make the prices fair for all parties involved, the attorney takes a percentage of the settlement to cover his costs. The percentages can range from anywhere between 25% to 40% in some cases. The more expensive cases are complicated ones that involve a lot of appeals or investigations. A rule of thumb is that the attorney takes 1/3 of the settlement for their work proving your case in court. 

Their payment covers out-of-pocket expenses, court fees, filing fees, the costs of expert witness, and the payments required to obtain your medical records, so your claim is validated. 

How Does an Auto Accident Attorney Help with My Case? 

An auto accident attorney provides essential legal assistance following a car accident. We have specialized knowledge in traffic and personal injury law, which is crucial for effectively navigating your case. Our role includes a thorough evaluation of your situation to determine the validity of your claim, and an estimate of potential compensation you could receive.

Auto accident attorneys are particularly skilled in dealing with insurance companies. We know the tactics these companies might use to reduce the amount of money they pay out. By negotiating on your behalf, an attorney can often secure a much fairer settlement than you might manage alone.

A significant part of our job involves gathering and organizing evidence to strengthen your case. This includes collecting police reports, witness statements, and medical records. All of which are vital in proving the extent of your injuries and the other party’s responsibility.

Calculating the full extent of your damages is another way an attorney can help. This isn’t just about collecting your current medical bills. It also involves calculating future medical expenses, lost wages, potential loss of earning capacity, and compensation for pain and suffering.

If your case goes to court, our attorney represents you, handling all the legal procedures. They prepare and present arguments, cross-examine witnesses, and work to convince the judge or jury of your rights to compensation.

Lastly, an attorney ensures that all legal documents are filed within the necessary deadlines, respecting the statute of limitations to avoid jeopardizing your case. Overall, hiring an auto accident attorney means having an expert who not only fights for your rightful compensation, but also takes on the burden of the legal process. This way, you can concentrate on recovery.

FAQ’s About Auto Accidents 

• What should I do immediately after an auto accident?
  •    Your first step should be to ensure everyone’s safety and seek medical attention. Then, document the scene and report the accident to the police and your insurance company.

• How long do I have to decide whether to hire an attorney?
  •    While there’s no set deadline for hiring an attorney, it’s recommended that you do so soon after the accident. This is due to the statute of limitations for filing claims and the need to gather fresh evidence.

• Can I handle negotiations with insurance companies on my own?
  •    While you can negotiate alone, it’s important to remember that insurance companies have experienced adjusters. An attorney can help ensure you receive fair compensation.

• What if the other party doesn’t have insurance?
  •    Uninsured motorist claims can be complicated. An attorney can assist in exploring alternative options for compensation, such as your own insurance policy or a personal injury lawsuit.

• How is compensation for pain and suffering calculated?
  •    Compensation for non-economic damages like pain and suffering is determined by various factors, including the severity of your injuries and their impact on your daily life.

• What’s the difference between settling and going to trial?
  •    Settling means reaching an agreement outside of court, which is often quicker and less expensive. Going to trial can lead to higher compensation, but involves more time and uncertainty.

Call DeHoyos Accident Attorneys Today

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, we have years of experience helping people just like you. If you have been injured in a car accident, call (832) 745-4878 for a free consultation. We can take the worry out of your accident, and let you get back on the road to recovery.