How to Choose a Personal Injury Attorney

Choosing the right personal injury attorney can ensure that your case gets settled in the most advantageous manner for you. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission offers How to Choose a Personal Injury Attorney .

Look for a lawyer who has experience and a good record settling personal injury cases. Some of the ways to find an attorney who specializes in auto accident settlements include:

• Ask friends, family and associates.
• Call your state bar association.
• Check with a lawyer referral service.
• In states that allow lawyers to advertise, you may find one through an ad.
• Interview more than one lawyer before deciding who will represent you.
  Most personal injury attorneys offer a free initial consultation.
• Discuss all fees and costs at your initial consultation.
  Get any details in writing before you make a commitment.
• Choose a lawyer with whom you feel comfortable discussing your case and with whom you can be honest.

How to Choose a Personal Injury Attorney

The more information your attorney has about your case, the more quickly and completely you can be compensated for your medical expenses and pain and suffering.

To ensure a complete, speedy resolution to your case, make sure your lawyer has all the information and documentation he needs to pursue a settlement. That information may include:

• Your vehicle, insurance, and driver’s license information.

Details of the accident, including:

• Date, time, location.
• Weather and traffic conditions.
• Information about other vehicles, drivers and passengers.
• Names and contact information for witnesses and copies of any accident or incident reports filed.
• Copies of traffic tickets written at the scene and information about any charges brought against drivers involved, including DUI charges.
• Physician report and medical records related to the accident.
• X-rays and test results related to injuries from the accident.
• Information about pre-existing conditions or injuries that may have been exacerbated by the accident.
• Record of expenses for ongoing medications, treatment, and therapies.
• Any other expenses incurred because of the accident, including transportation costs.
• Documentation of days, hours and wages lost because of the accident.
• Copies of all correspondence with insurance companies related to the accident.

It may be helpful to keep a personal injury diary to note appointments, expenses, contacts with the insurance company and your general feelings and medical condition following the accident.