Why you might need one
With most car accidents, you can simply file a claim online and get your car repairs paid for in a timely manner. However, there are times when insurance companies can be hard to deal with and you should seek the help of a lawyer.
A lawyer may be worth seeking if:
- you are not being offered fair compensation for an accident;
- you have legal questions that are not readily answerable on a website or with a phone call;
- you believe the insurer broke their contract;
- you feel you’re not being offered a fair settlement;
- your claim was denied in bad faith.
An insurance lawyer is knowledgeable in the law and can negotiate settlements or dispute bad faith cases in court. Insurance companies can be quite powerful, which makes it imperative to have an advocate on your side to help ensure that you receive the best possible outcome for your case.
Signs of a good lawyer
A good insurance lawyer will be able to map out your options in a case after collecting and evaluating all the facts. They should be knowledgeable in and know how to research local, state, and federal laws. This familiarity with the law will help in determining the best course of action for your situation as well as identifying at-fault parties and how best to hold them accountable. Well-practiced lawyers can determine the fair value of a claim and can handle negotiations on your behalf.
In general, good lawyers are also great communicators. They should be reasonably accessible and responsive to emails. However, be sure not to bombard them with too many emails or texts; consolidate your questions into necessary emails and expect answers within a reasonable timeframe, usually within 24-48 hours.
You also want someone who can explain things well. If they can lay out the options for your case and articulate a clear course of action, they are likely also to be good in a courtroom.
Other considerations when looking for a good lawyer should include some research on your part to make sure the lawyer is well qualified from the start. You can go to the State Bar of Texas website to verify their credentials and their expertise. Check reviews online and look at their accomplishments and testimonials on their website. Most importantly, you should meet with the lawyer in person to truly determine if they suit your needs.
If you feel you need an attorney for an insurance claim, reach out to our office for a free consultation.
