What Do Car Accident Lawyers Do?
There are 48,373 personal injury law firms in the US, many of which specialise in car accident claims. A car accident lawyer Los Angeles can provide legal counsel and representation to clients who have suffered damages and losses, both economic and noneconomic, due to someone else's negligence. Let’s take a look at what a vehicle accident lawyer can do for you.
Investigating the Accident
What do car accident lawyers do? One of the first things motor vehicle accident lawyers do is conduct an investigation into the accident. They gather evidence, take photos of property damage and injuries, interview witnesses, obtain police reports, research traffic patterns and road conditions, inspect the vehicles involved, and more. A thorough investigation helps build a strong case by uncovering facts and establishing how the collision occurred and who is at fault.
Determining Liability
A key part of a road accident lawyer's job is to determine liability and identify who is responsible for causing the crash. Using evidence from their investigation, lawyers analyze how the accident happened to pinpoint which driver violated traffic laws or acted negligently. Lawyers must prove that the other driver breached their duty of care and did not act with reasonable prudence behind the wheel. If multiple parties share fault, lawyers will identify all negligent drivers and pursue claims against each one.
Filing Insurance Claims
Car accident lawyers are experienced in dealing with insurance companies. They communicate with insurers on the client's behalf and make claims for compensation under applicable policies. Lawyers assist clients in compiling evidence to support claims, document losses and damages, communicate with adjusters, and negotiate fair settlement offers. If an offer is unsatisfactory, lawyers can take the case to court instead.
Evaluating Damages
A significant part of an automobile accident lawyer's job is to identify and accurately calculate all of the short and long-term damages the client has suffered. This includes economic losses like medical bills, lost wages due to missed work, and car repair or replacement costs. Other non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and emotional distress can also be claimed for. Lawyers from Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys use documentation, expert testimony, and research to put a dollar figure on these damages.
Advising Clients on Options
Car accident lawyers counsel clients about their legal rights and options following a crash. They explain how the claims process works, how negligence and liability are determined, what damages can be recovered, and realistic compensation amounts to expect. We give clients options moving forward, such as settling with insurers or taking the case to trial, and provide guidance on the pros and cons of each choice. We can answer any questions and concerns the client has.
Negotiating Settlements
One of a car accident lawyer's most important duties is negotiating with insurance companies to obtain a satisfactory settlement for the client. Using their knowledge of injury law and past case experience, lawyers work to secure a fair settlement that covers the client's provable losses and damages. We act as an assertive advocate to get insurers to offer the maximum reasonable amount without having to go to trial.
Preparing for Litigation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, car accident lawyers will prepare to take the case to court through litigation, although around 95% of cases settle before this happens. They will file a personal injury lawsuit stating the client's allegations against the at-fault driver and demanding compensation for damages. Lawyers then conduct extensive pretrial preparation, including deposing witnesses, consulting with expert witnesses, researching case law precedents, and developing trial strategy.
Representing Clients in Court
If a car accident case goes to trial, we will represent you in court throughout the proceedings. During the trial, we’ll present evidence, question witnesses, make arguments addressing negligence and liability, advocate for your losses, and request that the jury award damages. Our role is to effectively convince the jury to decide in favor of the client. If a favorable verdict is returned, your lawyer will ensure you receive the compensation awarded.
Pursuing Appeals if Necessary
If a car accident case results in a disappointing verdict for the client, a lawyer may advise them to pursue an appeal. The lawyer will then file an appeal and handle the appellate process. This involves submitting legal briefs arguing how the trial court misapplied the law or asking for a higher court to overturn the verdict. If the appellate court sides with the client, they may be granted a new trial or increased award amount.
Providing Ongoing Support and Counsel
Even after a settlement is reached or case judgment awarded, a car accident lawyer continues advising and supporting their client. They assist the client in actually obtaining compensation from insurers and can take action if insurers refuse to pay or delay payments. Lawyers also address any issues like liens or subrogation claims that arise. If further medical treatment is needed, lawyers ensure clients have the resources to access care.
Handling Communication
An important aspect of a car accident lawyer's responsibilities is communicating regularly with clients to provide updates on their case. Lawyers keep clients informed about developments such as settlement offers, trial dates, and verdicts through their preferred means of contact. Clear communication ensures the client is aware of case progress and significant events.
Coordinating with Health Care Providers
A Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer will often work closely with the client's health care providers to document injuries and treatment. Lawyers obtain medical records, bills, and documentation of prognosis to support claims for economic and non-economic damages. Building cooperative relationships with doctors provides lawyers with expert opinions to strengthen the client's case.
Researching Relevant Laws and Case Precedents
Preparing a strong car accident case requires lawyers to research applicable injury laws and legal precedents from prior relevant cases. Laws regarding negligence, liability, contributory negligence, damages, and settlements vary by state. Lawyers need an in-depth understanding of laws in their jurisdiction to construct persuasive legal arguments. Case precedents indicating how similar cases have been decided can provide leverage during settlement negotiations and trials.
Lawyers from Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys handle a wide range of duties. Our legal skills, knowledge, and experience are invaluable in helping clients recover losses after being harmed in auto collisions caused by others.
Contact us today for advice on your case. Call 800-4THE-WIN (800-484-3946) to make an appointment.
