Car accidents are not unusual in and around Los Angeles. If you were injured in such a crash, you might have many questions in mind – “Can I seek compensation for my injuries?”. “How would my action impact my settlement?”. “Do I need to hire a lawyer?”. You are not alone. California is an at-fault state. If the other driver was negligent or at fault, you could sue them, which remains a possibility even when you are at fault. Hiring one of the top car accident attorneys Los Angeles can benefit your case. Here’s why hiring a lawyer is worth the effort.
The Fault System is Complicated
Let’s start by saying that California is a claimant-friendly state. What does that mean? It refers to the pure comparative fault rule, where a driver can seek compensation from the other driver at fault, even when their fault share is higher. For instance, if you have suffered estimated damages worth $1,00,000 and were 60% at fault, you can still file a lawsuit against the other driver. Of course, you cannot get the entire settlement awarded to you – The fault share will determine the final recovery.
In the real world, insurance companies (and the courts) rely on this rule to decide the worth of a car accident claim. If you don’t have the experience to negotiate, the claims adjuster may try to settle the case for a lot less. Hiring an attorney is more about protecting your rights and interests. An experienced lawyer knows the worth of an accident claim and would not let the client settle for less.
You don’t need an Upfront fee
Contrary to what many victims believe, accident lawyers in California don’t charge an upfront fee. Unlike family lawyers who charge an hourly rate, PI lawyers take a contingency fee. The fee is a part of the recovery, only if you win. The contingency fee of lawyers doesn’t typically exceed 40%. Your lawyer could charge a tad more if they paid for all other expenses required to fight the accident case.
Final Word
If your injuries are severe or likely to impact your ability to earn and have a normal life, you need an attorney to fight for your rights. Besides economic losses, you can also recover money for your pain and suffering, for which a multiplier is usually used. You can check online to find more on accident lawyers near you in LA.
