If you were injured in a truck accident and are considering filing a claim, you are likely searching for a truck injury attorney in California. A simple Google search can yield dozens of truck injury lawyers, and you may quickly feel overwhelmed and anxious by the sheer number of results.
So, how do you choose the right truck injury lawyer? To help you through this process, we have compiled the following list of the top factors and tips to consider when searching for an attorney for your truck accident case.
How to Choose the Best Truck Injury Lawyers in San Luis Obispo, CA
Personal injury law encompasses many different types of accidents, and it is common for personal injury attorneys to focus on specific areas such as car crashes, truck accidents, slip and falls, product liability claims, and more.
When working through the seemingly endless listings, here are five factors to consider when looking for an attorney for your truck accident claim.
Choose an Attorney with Truck Accident Experience
Just because an attorney or firm markets themselves as having personal injury experience, it does not mean they have experience with truck accident cases. Commercial truck crash claims can be especially complex. Multiple parties are often involved, liability is often disputed, and numerous insurance policies are at play. You want to be sure you are choosing a law firm with experience handling truck claims and a track record of success. When you meet with prospective attorneys, do not be afraid to ask how much experience they have with truck accident cases.
Familiarly with Commercial Truck regulations
Commercial trucking companies and drivers must adhere to federal trucking regulations. A violation can substantially impact the outcome of a lawsuit, so having an attorney familiar with regulations regarding inspection requirements, hours of service rules, and size restrictions can be key to a successful outcome. It is also essential that your legal team know how to investigate these claims to determine if any violations occurred. At Frederick Law Firm, we are well versed in these regulations and how to investigate the crash for liability.
Ask Family & Friends
Like other professional services, asking those closest to you for a personal referral is one of the best ways to find an attorney. Friends and family may have experienced a truck accident claim at some point in their lives. They can provide a reliable recommendation if they have had a good experience with their attorney. On the other hand, if they did not have a favorable outcome or experience with a particular attorney they can advise you to steer clear of them. Just as you might ask relatives for a recommendation for a plumber or electrician, don’t hesitate to ask for a lawyer’s recommendation.
Research Prospective Attorneys
In 2024, it is second nature to turn to Google to check profiles, reviews, ratings, and even statistics on almost any prospective service or professional. While we encourage you to look at a firm or lawyer’s internet presence, it should only be one factor in your decision-making process. Looking to state and local bar associations, firm websites, and other legal services websites such as Avvo can provide valuable insight into the success and achievements of an attorney. However, never rely solely on online research. Instead, use it as a tool to narrow down your search.
Request an Initial Consultation
Most truck accident lawyers offer a free initial consultation. You should take advantage of this in order to meet with and interview prospective attorneys. Most people think consultations are only for the lawyer to learn about the client, but they are also opportunities for you to learn about the lawyer.
You can ask about their professional experience, success, and achievements. This is also an excellent time to ask about their availability and workload. You want to ensure they have the time to devote to your case. For instance, if the attorney is taking phone calls, seems in a hurry, or is otherwise overwhelmed during your consultation, this is a sign they may have already taken on more than they can successfully handle.
Other Factors to Consider
It is also essential to know what to avoid and how to spot red flags when searching for a truck accident attorney.
You should be most aware of two things: soliciting attorneys and non-attorney services. You should always be cautious of lawyers who directly attempt to solicit your business because they can have disingenuous motives.
Even more importantly, you should avoid non-attorney services or agencies that offer to assist you often at an enticing rate. These services and agencies are not required to adhere to a professional code of ethics and can make unrealistic promises to gain your business.
Contact a Truck Injury Lawyer
At Frederick Law Firm, our attorneys were named to The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 List for outstanding client service. With decades of experience representing victims in even the most horrific truck accident cases, we know what it takes to see your case through to a successful resolution.
Contact us to schedule a convenient, compassionate consultation with our truck accident lawyers today.