When it comes to choosing a car accident lawyer in Texas, potential clients can easily become overwhelmed by the many choices available.
Attorneys often inundate the channels with expensive TV ads, have billboards by the roadside, and are great at using social media and YouTube to get their message across. In the aftermath of a car accident, injured drivers and passengers may feel panicked. They often dial the first number for a lawyer that they see on a billboard or a TV commercial without doing research.
Choosing the wrong car accident lawyer can have serious consequences. You need an attorney who will fight hard for your rights, one who has a long and successful track record of dealing with insurance companies as well as medical expertise.
At the Ramji Law Group, the attorneys at our fast-growing Houston-based personal injury law firm will answer all your questions about car accidents and can talk to you about your options during a free consultation.
Many people never think about hiring a lawyer until they suffer a sudden and unexpected injury in a car crash. They know little about attorneys other than what they think they know from TV shows and may be intimidated by the law. it’s important to ask the right questions to make sure you hire the best attorney for your car accident. You should ask many questions from the outset, including:
How Large is the Law Firm You are Considering Hiring?
Some clients sign up with the largest law firm in their area because they have seen TV ads. Unfortunately, a lavish marketing budget does not always equate to a big payout for the injured driver or passenger. Large law firms don’t always get better results. You may receive more personalized service at a smaller firm where clients are more than a number on the balance sheet.
How Many Clients Does the Lawyer Have?
Ask your prospective attorney how many clients he or she has. A lawyer with a massive caseload may be overburdened and have little time for your file. This means the attorney might want to settle your case as soon as possible to reduce the workload rather than fighting for the best result for you.
What Do Previous Clients Say?
Although some people are wowed by glitzy TV ads, it’s important to make sure you are not hiring an attorney with lots of style but little substance. All the time the lawyer is spending behind the cameras is time he or she is not working on your case. Check the reviews of former clients on the car accident lawyer’s website and view testimonial videos. The clients will often describe the style of the lawyer and how supportive the paralegals and other staff at the firm were. Car crash victims go through an emotional rollercoaster. It’s important to deal with attorneys who give you regular updates on your case and don’t leave you feeling isolated.
Is the Firm Experienced in Handling Car Accident Cases?
Some law firms practice many areas of the law. If you suffered serious injuries in a car crash, it’s not advisable to hire a lawyer who usually works on family cases or immigration law or represents drunk drivers in criminal cases. The Ramji Law Group almost exclusively works on personal injury cases such as auto accidents and medical malpractice lawsuits.
What Results Has the Firm Achieved?
Most law firms publish past results on their websites. You should check these to get an idea of what your case might be worth. All cases are different and unique so this information should only serve as a guide. If you are wavering, some attorneys can put you in touch with former clients whose circumstances were similar to their own.
Has the Lawyer Argued Cases in Court?
Only a small minority of car accident cases go all the way to a court hearing. However, you should hire a lawyer who has court experience and is prepared to take your case all the way if the insurance company is obstructive. The Ramji Law Firm has two trial lawyers who have a wealth of experience in the courtroom.
Will a Lawyer Know About Medical Conditions?
Lawyers do not diagnose conditions like doctors but medical knowledge is invaluable in the legal field. Adam Ramji of the Ramji Law Group is a doctor and a lawyer. This gives him a substantial advantage over competitors in the Houston area. Many cases become a tussle between the client and the insurance company as to the seriousness of injuries. If we believe you have an undiagnosed traumatic brain injury or another condition, we can put you in touch with the best medical professionals.
Hiring an attorney with little medical knowledge can harm your case because the seriousness of your condition may not become apparent until it is too late.
How Much Will The Lawyer Cost You?
Don’t be afraid to ask about costs upfront. Most personal injury lawyers operate on a contingency basis and the Ramji Law Group is no exception. We operate on a ‘no win, no fee basis.’ Car accident cases are different from some cases such as divorce where the attorney will demand a retainer upfront. The payout in personal injury cases is taken from the settlement. Be sure to ask what percentage the law firm takes.
Is the Lawyer a Good Fit?
It’s important for a client to have a good working relationship with an attorney. Avoid hiring a lawyer who you get a bad feeling about. You may have to work with your attorney for months. It’s important that you operate as a team.
Has the Legal Team Won Awards?
Awards are conferred on attorneys with a great track record who are recognized by their peers. The attorneys at the Ramji Law Group have won many awards from organizations including the Texas Trial Lawyers Association and the National Trial Lawyers. Also, check if an attorney is a member of bar associations and professional organizations.
Choose an Effective Houston Car Accident Lawyer
When you choose a car accident lawyer, always take the time to do the research and get a feel for the firm. Talk to a number of lawyers before you make your choice. The Ramji Law Group has served over 6,500 clients and the attorneys have over 125 years of combined experience. Although the firm has grown in recent years, it retains a friendly, small-firm feel. Call us for a free and confidential consultation after a car accident at (713) 322-6821 or schedule a meeting via our website as soon as possible.
