A Phoenix car accident lawyer shouldn’t cost you anything on the front end and, if your claim is successful, will put you in a position to afford your medical bills, property damage expenses, and Other losses related to the incident.
In general, personal injury lawyers will work on a contingency fee basis, which means victims won’t have to pay any fees upfront and they will only owe legal fees after the attorney successfully recovers the compensation they are entitled to.
Why is a Contingency Fee Arrangement Necessary?
The contingency fee arrangement is particularly important for personal injury cases because victims of car accidents often face significant financial strain. Medical bills, vehicle repair costs, and lost wages can quickly add up, leaving individuals in a tough position to pay out of pocket for legal representation.
With a contingency fee agreement, accident victims can hire a car accident attorney without worrying about upfront costs. This structure also aligns the interests of the attorney and the client. The lawyer is incentivized to work diligently and maximize the compensation recovered because their fee depends on the outcome.
Additionally, the contingency fee arrangement levels the playing field when negotiating with large insurance companies. Insurers typically have teams of lawyers working to minimize payouts, and a skilled personal injury attorney ensures that accident victims have someone equally dedicated advocating on their behalf.
What is the Usual Contingency Fee Percentage?
In most personal injury cases, including car collision claims, attorneys typically charge a contingency fee ranging from 33% to 40% of the total recovery. While the precise percentage can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the stage at which it is resolved, here is a general breakdown:
- 33% for pre-litigation settlements. If the case is resolved through negotiation before filing a lawsuit, the fee is often one-third of the settlement amount.
- Maybe a slightly higher percentage for cases requiring litigation. If a lawsuit must be filed, the contingency fee percentage may increase to account for the additional time, effort, and resources involved in taking the case to court.
What Happens if You Don’t Win the Case?
One of the most significant benefits of a contingency fee arrangement is that you do not owe your attorney anything if they do not successfully recover compensation on your behalf. This risk-free arrangement ensures that you are not burdened with additional financial stress after an unsuccessful claim.
However, it is important to understand that you may still be responsible for certain costs associated with your case, even if the claim is unsuccessful. These costs, which are typically discussed upfront in your agreement, may include:
- Court filing fees
- Expert witness fees
- Costs for obtaining medical records or police reports
Some law firms absorb these expenses entirely if the case is unsuccessful, while others may require reimbursement. Be sure to clarify these details with your attorney before proceeding.
Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
Although some individuals consider handling their car accident claim without a lawyer, the benefits of professional legal representation often far outweigh the cost. A skilled attorney can:
- Evaluate your claim’s value. An attorney will ensure you pursue full compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses.
- Handle negotiations. Dealing with insurance adjusters can be challenging. An experienced lawyer knows how to counter tactics used to undervalue or deny claims.
- Gather evidence. Attorneys have the resources and expertise to collect and present evidence that supports your case, such as accident reconstruction reports or medical expert testimony.
- Represent you in court. If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will advocate for you, presenting a compelling argument to the judge or jury.
Hiring a car accident lawyer on a contingency fee basis offers accident victims a way to access skilled legal representation without the burden of upfront costs. Understanding how these arrangements work, the typical fee percentages, and what happens if you do not win your case can help you make informed decisions about your legal options.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, the team at Sargon Law Group is here to help. Contact us today through our online form for a free consultation and let us guide you toward the compensation you deserve.