If you have been hurt in a car accident, you should think about hiring a lawyer. A car accident lawyer can help you understand the legal process.
One of the most common concerns is the cost of hiring an attorney. Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t have to pay any fees in advance. But what exactly does this mean, and how much will you ultimately pay for legal services?
This blog will explain the usual fees for car accident lawyers. The coverage will also include how fee arrangements work. Lastly, it will discuss the factors that affect what you will pay in a car accident case.
What Are Contingency Fees in Car Accident Cases?
In most car accident claims, attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. Under this arrangement, the personal injury attorney only receives payment if they win your case. Here’s how it typically works:
No Upfront Costs: You do not pay any legal fees when you hire the attorney.
Percentage of the Settlement: The lawyer's fee is a percentage of the money recovered. This can come from a settlement or a court award and typically ranges from 33 – 40% depending on the stage of the case when it is resolved.
Risk-Free for the Client: If the attorney does not win or settle the case, you owe nothing in legal fees. Kitchel Law will never ask you for money.
Additional Costs Beyond Attorney’s Fees
The attorney charges a contingency fee, but you may also face other costs related to your car accident claim. These can include:
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Court filing fees
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Expert witness fees
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Costs of gathering evidence, such as medical records and accident reports
Some law firms cover these costs upfront and take them from your final settlement, while others may ask you to pay them separately. Be sure to discuss these details during your free initial consultation to avoid surprises later. (At Kitchel Law, we pay costs up front and request reimbursement only when we win your case. We will never ask you to pay costs upfront.)
Factors That Influence Car Accident Lawyer Fees
Several factors can affect how much a personal injury lawyer charges for handling your car accident case:
1. Complexity of the Case
If your case has multiple parties, disputes over fault, or serious injuries, it may take more time and increase the fees. Lawyers will need to look into the accident carefully, collect medical evidence, and may hire expert witnesses to strengthen their case.
2. Likelihood of Going to Trial
Most car accident claims settle out of court. If insurance companies refuse to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer may need to take the case to court. This increases the time and resources required, which can also lead to higher fees. In addition, a case that goes to trial probably has some “bad facts.” Maybe liability for the crash is in question. Maybe it is unclear whether the cause of an injury is a crash or a preexisting condition. Risk factors like this make it harder to predict the value of a case and, therefore, harder to settle.
How Legal Protections Safeguard Clients
In most states, including DC and Virginia, law firms must provide a written agreement that explains the fee structure and any extra costs. This ensures transparency and allows clients to make informed decisions about hiring an auto accident lawyer.
When Should You Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
If you're unsure whether to hire a lawyer after a car accident, consider these situations where legal help is very important:
Serious Injuries: If you suffer serious injuries, a lawyer can help you recover money for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care. We are experts at getting compensation for your “pain and suffering,” or what we call life damages. Being hurt can be stressful, triggering, embarrassing, and demoralizing. We know how to make this case to the insurance companies.
Disputed Liability: When fault is unclear or the other driver’s insurance company disputes their liability, an attorney can help establish responsibility.
Low Settlement Offers: If an insurance company offers a settlement that doesn’t adequately cover your damages, an experienced lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to get a fair settlement.
Underinsured or Uninsured Drivers: If the other driver has inadequate insurance coverage, an attorney can help you file a claim under your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
FAQs
1. What Are the Typical Costs of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer?
Most car accident lawyers cost nothing upfront because they operate on a contingency fee arrangement. The lawyer’s fees are a percentage of the settlement, usually ranging from 33% to 40%. (The fee is on the higher side if the case is complex or we end up in court.)
2. Do I Have to Pay Anything if We Lose the Case?
Never. At least that is true at Kitchel Law. You will not owe any legal fees if your attorney does not win or settle your case.
3. What Should I Ask During the Free Initial Consultation?
Ask about the attorney’s fee, how costs are handled, and the lawyer’s experience with personal injury law and car accident cases. Also, clarify whether the attorney will cover additional expenses upfront or deduct them from your settlement. You can check our previous blog to learn more about this.
4. How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim?
The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim varies by state but is typically between one to three years from the date of the accident. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you meet all deadlines.
Conclusion
Hiring an experienced car accident lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your car accident claim. By understanding the fee arrangements, the legal process, and the costs associated with hiring an attorney, you can make informed decisions and avoid any surprises.
At Kitchel Law, we offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and explain how our contingency fee arrangement works. We are committed to providing compassionate, expert legal services and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
Have you been involved in a car accident?
Contact us today at 202-949-7109, email at [email protected], or fill out our online form to schedule a FREE consultation.
Our dedicated team of personal injury attorneys is ready to help you navigate your car accident claim and secure the best possible outcome.