What Type of Attorney Handles Car Crashes?

Any attorney licensed to practice law in the state where your crash happened can handle your car crash case. However, that is different than the type of attorney you should hire. As a lawyer handling car crashes in Missouri and Kansas for over 15 years, I’ve learned that it takes more than just a law license to properly handle a car crash case.

Here are a few things to consider when hiring a car crash lawyer:

Does the lawyer have trial experience?

Although most car crash cases settle out of court, your lawyer should know how to try your case if it doesn't settle. Having a lawyer who knows how to try a case can defeat an insurance agent’s reason for not making a fair settlement offer, and can increase the value of your case.

Insurance companies often come up with bogus reasons for denying a claim or for making a poor offer. Being able to call out the reasons is a good way to increase settlement offers.

Does the lawyer only handle personal injury cases?

Some lawyers handle many different types of cases, including divorces, criminal defense, and car crashes. These types of lawyers are often called general practitioners.

Other lawyers are established and only practice a certain type of case and law. Generally speaking, you should hire a lawyer who concentrates on personal injury cases, and preferably one who is well versed in car crash cases. These lawyers are typically better at moving their cases and getting more money compensation for their clients.

Finally, is the lawyer up to speed on recent changes with the law?

The rules and laws that apply to car crash cases are constantly changing. The legislature may pass a tort reform bill limiting the time you have to file a lawsuit, or the Court may change some rule of evidence that affects your case.

It is important that the lawyer you hire is knowledgeable on the most recent rules. In addition, the lawyer you hire should also be familiar with recent trial techniques and approaches.