How to Choose a Car Accident Lawyer in Birmingham, AL
Known as the "Magic City," Birmingham is the largest city in Alabama with a population of 212,113. It is served by several major highways including Interstate 20, Interstate 59 which connects it to Chattanooga and New Orleans, Interstate 65, and U.S. Route 280. With so many roadways intersecting in Birmingham, unfortunately, many car accidents happen in the city.
If you have been in a car accident in Birmingham, you may need to hire a car accident lawyer to help you with your case. Here is how to choose the right lawyer that specializes in car accident cases in Birmingham, AL.
Do Your Research
The first step is to do some research on car accident lawyers in the Birmingham area. There are around 63 major law firms with offices in Alabama, with lawyer numbers ranging from just 4 to over 400 in some firms. Look online for lists of top car accident lawyers in Birmingham and read reviews from past clients. You want to get an idea of the reputation of the lawyer or law firm and the kind of cases they handle. Look for lawyers that specialize in car accident cases rather than general personal injury attorneys.
Consult with Multiple Car Accident Lawyers in Birmingham, AL
Once you have compiled a list of top car accident attorneys in the Birmingham area, set up initial consultations with several of them. Many lawyers will do a free first consultation so you can get a feel for them and ask questions before hiring them. Come prepared with details about your accident and injuries. The lawyer will assess your case and give you their opinion on how to proceed. Be sure to ask about their experience with car accident cases, success rate, and how they charge for their services.
Consider The Auto Accident Lawyer Experience
An important factor when choosing a Birmingham lawyer is their experience specifically with auto accident cases. Ask how many years they have been handling these cases and how many they have tried in court. An experienced car accident attorney will be able to better predict how much your claim is worth and build a strong case on your behalf. They will also be skilled negotiators when it comes to settlement talks with insurance companies.
Understand How The Lawyer Charge
Most car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they succeed with your claim. A typical fee is around 33% of the settlement amount. Make sure you understand exactly how the lawyer charges and what is included. Will they deduct expenses from the settlement? How are fees calculated if the case goes to trial? Get all financial agreements in writing.
Check References in Birmingham
Ask the car accident lawyers you are considering for references from past clients. Speaking to others who have worked with the attorney can give you valuable insight into their skills and client relationships. Be sure to ask how satisfied the client was with the outcome of their case and if they would recommend the lawyer.
Consider Location
Look for a car accident lawyer that has offices conveniently located near you in Birmingham. You will need to meet with them frequently, so having a shorter commute can be beneficial. A lawyer with an office in Birmingham will also have helpful local knowledge of the courts and processes in the city.
In 2022, a person was killed in a traffic accident every 8 hours and 53 minutes in Alabama. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Birmingham car accident, take the time to carefully choose an experienced attorney you trust to handle your case. The right lawyer can make all the difference in recovering the maximum compensation you deserve.