The moments after a truck accident are a whirlwind of confusion, pain, and uncertainty. You’re facing a powerful trucking company and its insurance carrier, both of whom have teams of lawyers dedicated to protecting their bottom line. You know you need a legal advocate on your side, but how do you choose the right one?
Hiring the right truck accident lawyer is the single most important decision you will make for your case. To help you navigate this critical choice, we’ve compiled the top 5 questions you should ask any attorney before you hire them. These questions will help you cut through the noise and find a lawyer who has the experience, resources, and dedication to fight for the justice you deserve.
1. What is Your Experience with Truck Accident Cases?
This is not the time for a lawyer who dabbles in personal injury. Truck accident cases are a different beast entirely. They involve a complex web of federal and state regulations (the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations), multiple liable parties (the driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader, the manufacturer), and unique types of evidence (black box data, driver logs, maintenance records).
Ask specifically:
- “How many truck accident cases have you handled?”
- “What is your track record of success in these cases?”
- “Are you familiar with the specific regulations that apply to my case?”
A seasoned Wisconsin truck accident lawyer will be able to answer these questions with confidence, providing specific examples of their experience and results.
2. What Resources Do You Have to Invest in My Case?
Trucking companies have deep pockets, and they will use them to fight your claim. They will hire accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and a team of lawyers to try to minimize your compensation. You need a law firm that can match its firepower.
Ask about their resources:
- “Do you have the financial resources to hire the necessary experts to prove my case?”
- “Do you have a network of trusted experts you work with?”
- “Are you prepared to take my case to trial if the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement?”
A law firm that is hesitant to invest in your case is not the right firm for you. At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, we have the resources and the resolve to see your case through to the end.
3. How Will You Communicate with Me About My Case?
There is nothing more frustrating than being left in the dark about your own case. You deserve to be kept informed every step of the way. A good lawyer will have a clear communication plan in place.
Inquire about their communication policy:
- “How often will I hear from you about my case?”
- “Who is my primary point of contact?”
- “How can I reach you if I have a question?”
Look for a lawyer who is committed to open and honest communication. You should feel like a priority, not just another case file.
4. What is Your Fee Structure?
This is a crucial question that should be addressed upfront. The last thing you need to worry about after a truck accident is how you’re going to afford a lawyer. The vast majority of reputable personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis.
Clarify the fees:
- “Do you work on a contingency fee basis?”
- “What percentage of the settlement or verdict do you take?”
- “Are there any upfront costs or fees?”
A contingency fee means you pay nothing unless your lawyer recovers money for you. There should be no hidden fees or surprises. At our firm, we believe that everyone deserves access to justice, which is why we offer a “No Fee Unless We Win” promise.
5. What is Your Honest Assessment of My Case?
A good lawyer will not make wild promises or guarantee a specific outcome. They will give you a realistic and honest assessment of your case, including its strengths and weaknesses. They should be able to explain the legal process in a way that you can understand, without all the legal jargon.
Ask for their candid opinion:
- “What are the potential challenges in my case?”
- “What is a realistic timeline for my case?”
- “What do you see as the most likely outcome?”
Trust your gut. You want a lawyer who is not only knowledgeable and experienced but also someone you can trust to guide you through this difficult time.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?
A: At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay us absolutely nothing unless we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of the total amount we recover for you, and there are no upfront costs.
Q: What is my truck accident case worth?
A: The value of your case depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, your medical bills, your lost wages, and the impact on your quality of life. An experienced attorney can give you a more accurate assessment after reviewing the details of your case.
Q: How long will my case take?
A: The timeline for a truck accident case can vary widely. Some cases can be settled in a matter of months, while others may take a year or more, especially if they go to trial. A good lawyer will keep you informed of the progress and manage your expectations.
Contact a Wisconsin Truck Accident Lawyer Today
Choosing the right lawyer is a critical step in your journey to recovery. We hope these questions will empower you to make an informed decision. The experienced and compassionate attorneys at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler are ready to answer all your questions and provide the guidance you need.
We invite you to visit our homepage to learn more about our firm. When you’re ready, contact us online or call us at 608-784-4370 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us fight for you.