When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a crash, searching for a car accident lawyer near me might seem simple—but choosing the wrong one can cost you time, money, and your rightful compensation.
Here’s a list of the most common mistakes people make when selecting a car accident attorney, and how you can avoid them to protect your case.
🚫 1. Choosing a Lawyer Based Only on Ads
Flashy TV or Google ads don’t guarantee skill or results. Many large firms prioritize volume over quality, meaning your case might get passed to an inexperienced associate.
✅ Instead:
Check their credentials, online reviews, and how much time they’ll personally spend on your case.
🚫 2. Not Asking About Case Experience
Not all personal injury attorneys have deep experience in car accident cases. A general lawyer may lack the knowledge needed to negotiate with insurance companies or take your case to trial.
✅ Instead:
Ask, “How many car accident cases have you handled in the past year?” and “What were the results?”
🚫 3. Ignoring Local Expertise
Hiring someone outside your area can create delays and confusion. A local car accident lawyer is familiar with nearby courts, judges, and legal procedures—giving your case an advantage.
✅ Instead:
Search for “car accident lawyer near me” and confirm they’ve handled cases in your city or county.
🚫 4. Not Reviewing Client Testimonials
Skipping this step means you’re flying blind. Reviews reveal a lawyer’s communication skills, honesty, and ability to deliver results.
✅ Instead:
Read Google, Avvo, and Yelp reviews. Look for consistent praise or repeated complaints.
🚫 5. Overlooking the Fee Structure
Many accident attorneys work on contingency, but hidden fees, unclear agreements, or high percentages can eat into your settlement.
✅ Instead:
Ask for a written contract and clarify:
- Percentage taken if you win
- Additional costs (filing, investigation, etc.)
- Payment rules if you lose
🚫 6. Rushing the Decision
A quick choice often leads to regrets. You may miss out on better, more qualified lawyers just because you didn’t do proper research.
✅ Instead:
Consult at least 2–3 lawyers before signing anything. Most offer free initial consultations.
🚫 7. Not Asking About Communication
Poor communication is one of the biggest complaints clients have. You deserve updates, answers to your questions, and prompt responses.
✅ Instead:
Ask, “Who will I speak with most of the time?” and “How often will I get updates?”
Final Thoughts
Choosing a car accident lawyer near me requires more than a Google search. Avoiding these common mistakes can make the difference between a lowball offer and a maximum settlement.