If you were injured in an auto collision, it's in your best interest to use the expertise of an attorney to file your claim and negotiate a fair settlement. If you're worried about affording a lawyer, rest easy. Most car accident lawyers handle these cases on a contingency fee basis. Let me explain how this works.
How Contingency Fee Agreements Work in Auto Crash Cases
In California, lawyers representing clients in car accidents and other personal injury cases are allowed to charge their attorney fees on contingency. This means:
- You don't owe any upfront attorney fees.
- You only owe your lawyer if he wins your case through a settlement or at a jury trial.
- Your attorney agrees to accept a certain percentage of your settlement amount or jury award as payment and deducts it from the insurance company’s payment to you.
- If you don't win your case, you won't be charged any attorney fees.
Court Costs and Other Fees You May Owe
Keep in mind that the attorney's fee may only be part of the costs of filing your claim. It's possible there are other itemized expenses for your case including, but not limited to:
- Lawsuit filing fees
- Medical record and other document copying fees
- Expert witness fees
- Subpoena costs
- Process server fees
- Court reporter and other deposition costs
It's important to discuss with your attorney how these expenses will be paid. Some law firms initially pay them for you, and later deduct them from your settlement. Others require you to pay them upfront.
Do you need to file a claim with the negligent driver’s insurance company after a car accident in San Diego or Southern California? Start an online chat to schedule a free consultation with me to discuss your legal options, how a typical fee structure might work, and how I can assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve. Don’t delay! Schedule your appointment today.
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