What should I look for when choosing a personal injury lawyer?
Look for an attorney with proven experience handling cases similar to yours and a track record of successful settlements or verdicts. The best personal injury lawyers offer free consultations, work on contingency fees, and communicate clearly about your case's potential outcomes.
Check their specialization in personal injury law rather than general practice. Review client testimonials and case results on their website. Verify their bar association standing and look for any disciplinary actions. A good lawyer will explain the legal process in simple terms and set realistic expectations about timelines and potential compensation.
Key qualifications to verify:
- Years of experience in personal injury law
- Trial experience and courtroom success
- Professional certifications or awards
- Client review ratings and testimonials
How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer?
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only pay if they win your case. The standard contingency fee ranges from 33% to 40% of your settlement or court award.
This arrangement makes legal representation accessible regardless of your financial situation. Your lawyer covers all case expenses including court filings, expert witnesses, and medical record requests. If you don't win, you typically owe nothing for attorney fees, though you may still be responsible for case costs.
Before signing any agreement:
- Understand exactly what percentage the lawyer takes
- Ask about additional costs and who pays them
- Get the fee structure in writing
- Clarify what happens if you lose the case
What types of cases do personal injury lawyers handle?
Personal injury lawyers represent clients injured due to someone else's negligence or wrongful actions. Common case types include car accidents, slip and fall incidents, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, and product liability claims.
They also handle cases involving motorcycle accidents, truck crashes, dog bites, and wrongful death. Some lawyers specialize in specific areas like maritime accidents, which can be particularly relevant given New Orleans' location near major waterways and ports.
Each case type requires different expertise and knowledge of specific laws and regulations. Choose a lawyer with experience in your particular type of accident for the best representation.
How long do personal injury cases typically take to resolve?
Most personal injury cases settle within 6 to 18 months, though complex cases can take several years. The timeline depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, clarity of fault, and the insurance company's cooperation.
Factors that affect case duration:
- Time needed to reach maximum medical improvement
- Complexity of determining fault
- Number of parties involved
- Insurance company response and negotiation process
Simple cases with clear liability and minor injuries often resolve quickly. Cases requiring extensive medical treatment or involving disputed fault take longer. Your lawyer should provide realistic timelines based on your specific circumstances.
What compensation can I expect from a personal injury claim?
Compensation varies widely based on your injuries, lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. Economic damages cover measurable losses like medical bills and lost income, while non-economic damages address pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
Types of compensation include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation costs
Louisiana follows a comparative fault system, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you're partially at fault for the accident. Your lawyer will evaluate all damages and fight for maximum compensation based on the specific facts of your case.
Should I accept the insurance company's first settlement offer?
Insurance companies typically make low initial offers, hoping you'll accept quickly before understanding your case's full value. These first offers rarely cover all your damages, especially future medical expenses and the long-term impacts of your injuries.
Reasons to be cautious about early offers:
- You may not know the full extent of your injuries yet
- Future medical costs aren't factored in
- Pain and suffering damages are usually undervalued
- Lost future earning capacity isn't considered
Consult with a personal injury lawyer before accepting any settlement offer. They can evaluate whether the offer fairly compensates you for all damages and negotiate for a better settlement if needed.
What makes some personal injury lawyers better than others?
The best personal injury lawyers combine extensive legal knowledge with strong negotiation skills and genuine care for their clients. They stay current on law changes, have relationships with medical experts, and understand insurance company tactics.
Distinguishing factors include:
- Trial experience - Insurance companies settle for more with lawyers willing to go to court
- Resources - Ability to hire expert witnesses and conduct thorough investigations
- Communication - Regular updates and clear explanations of legal processes
- Reputation - Standing among peers and with insurance companies
Look for lawyers who focus primarily on personal injury law rather than those who handle many different practice areas. Specialization leads to better outcomes and more efficient case handling.
