Last week, I spoke about the main causes of bus accidents, the injuries people are likely to sustain, and why it’s a far better idea to hire a bus accident lawyer than to go it alone with the insurance company.
So how do you pick a bus accident attorney?
Recommendations
Getting recommendations for New York bus accident lawyers from the Internet, friends, relatives, and colleagues is all well and good but since no two cases are ever the same, and people are notoriously subjective when it comes to giving advice, it’s far better to consult professionals when conducting your research. These are the best resources, offering unbiased reports for personal injury lawyers across the US:
There is a saying that you should hire the bus accident lawyer, not the firm. I certainly believe this to be true, not least because, as I’ve talked about before, you need to feel comfortable with your lawyer, especially given that you’re likely to be spending a lot of time in each other’s company.
Paperwork
Do make sure that all your paperwork, including bills and receipts, especially relating to medical treatment, is in order and up to date. And make sure you take it to the initial consultation with any prospective bus accident attorney. Also remember to take any correspondence with you, particularly if you’ve tried to deal with your case yourself and are having little or no success with the insurance company.
Experience
It goes without saying that you should always do your homework, and ask to see evidence of cases that your bus accident lawyer has taken on, and won.
Not all cases go to trial, indeed, a high percentage are settled out of court; however, it doesn’t hurt to hire a bus accident lawyer with trial experience. It’s better to have a trial lawyer and not go to court, than later on having to go about finding and hiring a trial lawyer if the case cannot be settled without a trial. And remember, the more complicated or unusual your case, the more likely it is that you will need a bus accident attorney with trial experience.
If you feel uncomfortable for any reason, or if you feel that the lawyer is not giving you honest answers, then look for another. A good bus accident attorney will do their best to make you feel at ease.
Cost
In terms of how much it will cost you to have legal representation, you should be aware that most bus accident attorneys operate on a no-win, no-fee basis – that is to say that their fees are contingent upon winning your case, which of course, means that they will always try to get you the best possible settlement. These fees are usually around 40% of the amount awarded. In addition however, you may have to pay other expenses, such as court fees. Before you hire a bus accident attorney, make sure you know exactly which fees and costs you will be liable for. Since almost all bus accident lawyers offer free initial consultations, you can afford to shop around for the one who best suits your needs.
If you have been injured in a bus accident in New York City, you should speak to New York City bus accident attorneys as soon as possible. The procedure for publicly-owned companies is different to that of privately-owned ones, and the laws governing bus accidents vary from state to state, which is why you’ll need to speak to bus accident lawyers who understand New York state law. Our expert personal bus accident attorneys at Antin, Ehrlich, and Epstein LLP will determine the best course of action in order to get you fair compensation for the pain and suffering you have endured. Contact us today on 917-730-7151 to schedule a free, no obligation, consultation.