Being involved in a collision with a commercial truck can complicate your life in an instant. In addition to needing immediate medical treatment, you also need help determining your next steps. What can you do if the accident was the truck driver’s fault? How can you hold them accountable? Are you stuck paying out of pocket for your medical expenses, even if you can’t work while you’re recovering?
An experienced South Carolina truck accident lawyer can answer these questions and more. However, finding the right attorney in Lancaster to take your case presents some challenges of its own. Take a look at how to choose a truck accident lawyer to manage your claim, then contact David Blackwell Law to arrange a free, no-obligation case review.
Look for a Firm with Experience in Truck Accident Cases
Truck accident cases differ from claims involving passenger vehicles in several significant ways. These crashes often cause more severe injuries and involve multiple parties, potentially including the truck driver, the trucking company, maintenance contractors, and insurance carriers. Each of these parties may have a separate legal team working to protect its own interests, which can make determining liability far more complicated.
Additionally, federal and state regulations govern the operation of commercial trucks, including driver rest hours and vehicle maintenance standards. Understanding and applying these rules requires detailed knowledge of transportation law. A lawyer with regular experience handling truck accident cases will be familiar with these rules and know how to gather and preserve critical evidence before it disappears. Their background can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case involving powerful trucking and insurance companies.
Check Client Testimonials and Reviews
In determining how to find a good lawyer after a truck accident, read what past clients have said about a law firm. The responses can tell you a lot about what your own experience might be like if you choose to work with them. Look for detailed reviews that mention a lawyer’s professionalism, responsiveness, and ability to explain each step of the process. Consistent positive feedback is often indicative of a firm’s commitment to client satisfaction. Client testimonials can also highlight how the lawyer handles challenges and gets favorable results for people facing similar truck accident claims.
Look Into Their Track Record of Success
When pursuing a claim against a trucking company, your primary goal is to recover the compensation you need and deserve. A Lancaster truck accident lawyer’s track record can demonstrate their ability to handle complex claims and achieve results. Look for significant settlements or verdicts in favor of injured clients, which show that the lawyer understands how to build a compelling case and fight for justice.
Understand Their Fee Structure and Payment Options
Don’t let the perceived cost of hiring a lawyer stop you from securing legal representation. Many truck accident lawyers work on contingency, meaning you don’t pay legal fees upfront. Instead, your lawyer only gets paid if they recover compensation for you through a settlement or court award.
Their payment is typically a percentage of the total recovery, which you agree to in advance. This arrangement allows you to pursue justice without worrying about hourly rates or large retainers. It also motivates the attorney to secure the best possible result, since their fee depends on your success.
Before signing a contract, ask what percentage the lawyer charges, whether you’re responsible for any court costs or expert witness fees, and when any payments might be due. This can help you avoid financial surprises later in the process.
Make Sure They Have Strong Communication Skills
Clear and consistent communication from your attorney goes a long way in making the claims process more tolerable. Your lawyer should take the time to explain your rights, answer your questions, return your calls and emails promptly, and provide updates when new developments occur. You should feel comfortable asking about what to expect at each stage. Strong communication also fosters trust, enabling you to make informed decisions based on accurate information.
When meeting with a potential lawyer, pay attention to whether they listen carefully and provide straightforward answers. Suppose they rush the conversation or seem disorganized. In that case, that may be a sign to continue your search for someone who prioritizes the clear, respectful communication you deserve.
Ask If They Have Trial Experience
The vast majority of truck accident claims settle out of court. However, insurance companies sometimes refuse to offer fair compensation even after multiple rounds of negotiations. When this happens, your case may need to go to court, in which case you want a lawyer with substantial trial experience.
A trial-tested attorney understands and is comfortable with courtroom procedures. They’ll know how to present evidence effectively and question witnesses to strengthen your case. Their willingness to go to trial also sends a message to the other side that they take your claim seriously. This can lead to additional negotiations that may yield a more favorable settlement offer and avoid a drawn-out trial.
Get in Touch with Our Lancaster Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you suffered injuries in a truck accident someone else caused, you deserve forceful legal advocacy from an experienced and knowledgeable attorney. David Blackwell Law has over 26 years of experience and a proven track record of success in truck accident claims. We’ve recovered millions for our clients, including recent $1.5 million and $1.25 million awards for victims of tractor-trailer collisions, and are committed to providing a satisfying experience and fighting for the results you deserve. As one client wrote:
“I tried to handle dealing with the insurance company myself, and got the run around for 9 months. I called David Blackwell Law, and David and Dana took it from there, and got it settled in about a month. They were very helpful, and kept me informed of what was going on. If I’m ever in another accident, I’m not dealing with the insurance company I’m calling and letting them handle it.” – Chris C.
Choosing a truck accident lawyer is one of the most important decisions you face after a collision. Don’t delay in making a call to secure the representation you need. Contact David Blackwell Law today to speak with a Lancaster truck accident attorney and learn more about your legal rights and options. Your case evaluation is free and fully confidential.
