After a wreck in Birmingham, AL, an attorney can help you pursue the money you need to move forward with your life and cover your losses. The first step is choosing a Birmingham car accident lawyer to represent you.
Most car accident attorneys offer free consultations. This is a good opportunity to learn about the lawyer’s experience and approach and get answers to questions about your case.
Were you injured in a car accident in Birmingham, Alabama? Call Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers at (205) 973-6417 to ask any of your questions after a car accident. We can answer them during a free consultation with our Birmingham personal injury attorneys.
Why Choose Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers to Help You After a Car Accident
Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers has built a reputation on trust, tireless advocacy, and real results. For over two decades, we’ve leveraged our 93 years of combined legal experience and recovered hundreds of millions for our clients.
Our law firm is prepared to give your case the personal attention and careful investigation it deserves. Our Birmingham personal injury lawyers will carefully document your damages, preserve evidence, and build the strongest case possible to hold the responsible party accountable.
Schedule a free consultation with our Birmingham car accident attorneys today to discuss your accident. We’ll give you the aggressive representation necessary to make sure the full extent of your losses is recognized and you are treated fairly by the insurance company.
Important Questions to Ask a Lawyer After a Car Accident
After a car accident, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Choosing the right lawyer can make all the difference in your recovery. Before you hire an attorney, it’s important to ask the right questions to understand their experience, approach, and how they can help you.
Their answers can help you make an informed decision and give you confidence as you move forward with your claim.
How Can We Establish Who Was at Fault for My Car Accident?
Proving fault is essential to securing compensation. You’ll want to know how the lawyer plans to gather evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, or expert analysis, to build your strongest case. A thorough strategy shows the attorney understands what’s needed to build a strong case and hold the right party accountable.
Establishing fault is especially important if you are being blamed for your accident, even slightly. In Alabama, accident victims can be barred from any financial recovery if they are assigned even 1% of the blame under the state’s harsh contributory negligence rule.
Do You Foresee Any Challenges with My Case?
Their answer to this question can give you an honest assessment of your claim’s potential hurdles, such as:
- Shared fault
- Limited insurance coverage
- Difficulty proving damages
- Gaps in medical treatment
- Conflicting statements
Look for a lawyer who is upfront about obstacles and can explain how they’d prepare for and overcome them.
By understanding potential issues with your case, you can prepare for what’s ahead. Your lawyer can develop strategies and gather necessary evidence to overcome challenges.
How Long Do You Anticipate It Will Take to Resolve My Case?
It’s important to set realistic expectations about the timeline. Some cases resolve quickly through settlement, while others take longer, especially if litigation is needed. A lawyer’s answer should reflect experience, honesty, and a willingness to explain what factors could impact how long your case takes.
Should I Speak to the Insurance Company?
A good lawyer will explain why you should be cautious when speaking to an insurance company and how they can step in to manage communications. Their answer can also give you insight into how they’ll protect your interests.
What Should I Be Doing to Help My Case?
You play an important role in your claim’s success. By asking this question, you can learn what steps to take and missteps to avoid.
The attorney may recommend:
- Keeping medical appointments
- Saving receipts
- Keeping a journal to document how your injuries affect your daily life
- Avoiding social media posts about the accident
A helpful lawyer will clearly explain what actions can strengthen your case and what mistakes to avoid.
What Is a Realistic Outcome for My Case?
A thoughtful lawyer will explain that no outcome is guaranteed, but they can outline factors that affect your case value. Look for a lawyer who gives a realistic, not overly optimistic, assessment.
Will You Be Handling My Case?
Some firms assign cases to junior lawyers or staff after intake. Ensure you understand who will manage your case and whether you’ll have direct access to the attorney you meet during your consultation. Look for clear communication and a firm structure that provides personal attention.
How Will I Receive Updates or Contact You with Questions?
Strong communication is key during this process. You shouldn’t be left stressed, afraid for your future, and waiting to hear back from your attorney.
It’s important to understand how often the lawyer will provide updates and how best to reach them when you have questions. A clear answer shows whether the lawyer values keeping you informed and how accessible they’ll be throughout your case.
What Are Your Fees?
Most personal injury lawyers handle cases with a contingency fee agreement. With this type of fee arrangement, you will not pay an upfront retainer, and the lawyer will receive an agreed-upon percentage of your compensation, but only if your case is successful.
The contingency fee percentage can vary, and additional costs may exist. The written agreement you’ll sign with the attorney will include all the details.
Contact Our Birmingham Car Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
After a crash, Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers is here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the money you deserve. Call us to set up a free case evaluation with a Birmingham car accident attorney and learn how we can help you.