Patton and Patton Chartered Legal Services

Questions frequently asked by clients to Auto Accident Attorneys: Automobile Accident Claims

1. I don't really need a lawyer, do I?
 
The short answer is no, if you understand the process; however few people do. Most people will benefit from having an experienced auto accident attorney handle their claim. An auto accident claim may appear to be deceptively simple at first, but often it can have confusing turns and twists. The insurance companies have a practice of contacting injury victims very early after the accident, often before they have hired an attorney. They contact you often before you know your rights. There is a reason for that practice. They are very nice folks and often tell you that you do not need an attorney. You should ask them a few questions. Will the insurance adjuster represent your interests? Answer: no. Remember you have no experience in handling an auto accident claim. On the other hand the adjuster has handled thousands of claims. Will the insurance company be represented in the process by an individual without experience? Answer: no. Then why should you struggle through this process alone? You should have the wisdom of experienced counsel for the same reasons the insurance company has an experienced representative. An auto accident claim immediately puts your interest at odds with the insurance company's interest.
 
2. Can I afford a lawyer?
 
Yes. The first call is free in an injury case, and we can explain the fee structure during that free conference. In an injury claim, most of the time, the fee is based on a percent of the recovery.