Because of their size and weight, commercial trucks and 18-wheelers are capable of causing massive damage in a road accident. Often, injured victims spend months at home, recovering from injuries. Unfortunately, such accidents are common on the roads of Vermont. You were injured in a truck accident that was not your fault. What’s next? After you have received medical attention and feel okay, you must contact one of the top local lawyers. The first meeting with a truck accident attorney is key to taking the case forward, and below are some aspects to consider.
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Experience of the attorney
Not all personal injury lawyers work on truck accident cases. When you meet an attorney for an initial consultation, you need to ask questions like –
- How long have you been working as a personal injury lawyer?
- How commonly do you deal with truck accident cases in your practice?
- Do you have courtroom experience?
- What are some of your landmark cases and settlements?
- Do you have the time to work on my case?
While most truck accident claims are settled outside of court, you may want to know if the lawyer can represent you in a trial, if needed. Also, many lawyers may work for the same firm, and therefore, you need to know if the attorney is working directly on your case.
Cost of hiring a lawyer
Usually, truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee. The lawyer will get a fee, typically a percentage of the final settlement, if and when they win. The attorney’s fee generally varies between 25% and 40%, depending on the work involved. Experienced lawyers often charge more, but there is always an assurance that they will get a fair settlement. When you meet an attorney, ask about their fee and other expenses of the case.
Discussing the possibilities
Establishing fault in case of truck accidents is the hardest part. The truck owner, loading company, trucker, repair service, or even the manufacturer – One or more parties could be at fault. Ask the attorney about their assessment of the case and what to expect in a settlement. They can investigate the matter, gather evidence, and find witnesses to bolster your case.
Finally, ask the attorney how frequently they deal with big insurance companies and corporate lawyers. Trucking companies and their insurers often take an aggressive stance, and you need an attorney who can handle all that.