Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, and the intricacies of filing a claim with an insurance company. Many accident victims worry about the costs of hiring an Asheville car accident lawyer.
At North Carolina Car Accident Lawyers, we believe everyone deserves top-quality legal representation after a car crash. Our auto accident lawyers charge no upfront fees. You only pay once we win your case.
How Do Contingency Fees Work?
Most North Carolina car accident lawyers, including our law firm, operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that the attorney’s fees depend on the outcome of your case. In other words, you don’t have to pay any upfront fees or hourly rates to hire an Asheville car accident lawyer.
Instead, your lawyer will only get paid if they successfully recover compensation through a settlement or a verdict in your favor.
What Percentage Does a Car Accident Lawyer Get?
The contingency fee can vary from 33% to 40% of the total compensation. The percentage depends on the case’s complexity, the amount of work, and whether the case goes to trial.
The typical contingency fee percentage is usually around 33%. Contingency fees are higher if a car accident lawsuit goes to trial, as litigation often requires more time, resources, and effort from the attorney.
The specific terms of the contingency fee agreement should be clearly outlined in a written contract.
Possible Other Legal Costs in a Car Accident Case
While the contingency fee covers the attorney’s fees, other legal costs may arise during a car accident case. These legal expenses can include:
Court Costs and Filing Fees
Court costs and filing fees are expenses related to filing documents with the court and other administrative fees associated with your car accident lawsuit. These fees can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific requirements of the case.
For example, a fee may be necessary to start a personal injury lawsuit. There may be additional costs for filing motions or other legal documents throughout the proceedings.
Expert Witness Fees
In some car accident cases, expert witnesses may be necessary to provide testimony or analysis to support your claim. Expert witnesses can include accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, or economists who can provide valuable insights into the cause of the accident, the extent of your injuries, and the impact on your future earning potential.
Expert witnesses may charge for their services.
Investigative Costs
Investigative costs can include hiring a private investigator or accident reconstruction experts. There may be fees for obtaining accident reports. A thorough investigation is crucial to building a strong case and proving liability.
Deposition Costs and Transcript Fees
Depositions are formal interviews conducted under oath, where attorneys ask witnesses questions about the accident and injuries. Deposition costs can include the fees for the court reporter who transcribes the deposition, as well as any costs associated with obtaining transcripts of the testimony.
Costs for Medical Records and Reports
Obtaining medical records and reports from healthcare providers is necessary to document the extent of your injuries and the treatment. Some healthcare providers may charge fees for copying and providing these records.
In many cases, these costs are advanced by the law firm and deducted from the final settlement or award. It’s important to talk to your car accident attorney to understand how legal expenses will be handled.
What Can an Asheville Car Accident Lawyer Do for You?
Hiring an Asheville car accident lawyer can provide numerous benefits. Here are some of the key ways that North Carolina car accident attorneys can help you.
Navigating the Legal Process
The legal process following a car accident can be complex and overwhelming, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the laws and procedures involved.
A skilled auto accident lawyer will handle every step, from filing a personal injury lawsuit to negotiating with the insurance company for a fair settlement. They will ensure that all necessary documents are filed correctly and on time.
Gathering Evidence
Building a strong case is essential to recovering fair compensation. An experienced Asheville car accident attorney will gather evidence such as police reports and interview witnesses. In complex cases, attorneys may hire accident reconstruction experts to help prove the other driver was at fault. By building a comprehensive and compelling case, your attorney can help maximize your compensation.
Calculating the Value of Your Case
A skilled personal injury attorney will assess your situation to identify all losses and damages in your car accident claim. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Your lawyer will ensure nothing is overlooked.
Negotiating with the Insurance Company
Dealing with the insurance company can be one of the most challenging aspects of a car accident case. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and may attempt to offer a settlement that is far less than what you deserve.
An Asheville car accident lawyer understands insurance company tactics and can negotiate for a fair settlement. They will leverage their knowledge and experience to counter lowball offers and fight for full compensation.
Representing You in Court
While many car accident cases are settled out of court, some may require litigation to achieve a fair outcome. If your case goes to trial, having a knowledgeable and experienced car accident attorney by your side is crucial. Your attorney will present your case to the judge and jury, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf.
Providing Peace of Mind
One of the major benefits of hiring an Asheville car accident lawyer is the peace of mind that comes with knowing your case is in capable hands. Recovering from a car accident can be a stressful and exhausting process, particularly if you are dealing with severe injuries or significant financial losses.
By entrusting your case to a skilled attorney, you can focus on your recovery and well-being.
How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Claim in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, there is a strict deadline, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a personal injury lawsuit. In most cases, you have three years from the accident to file your claim. Missing the deadline can result in losing your right to pursue compensation.
You should contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible.
Call Today for a Free Consultation
Many car accident victims worry about the cost of hiring an attorney. At North Carolina Car Accident Lawyers, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. This approach allows you to pursue justice without the burden of upfront costs.
An experienced Asheville car accident lawyer can investigate your accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. We are dedicated to helping clients recover the compensation they deserve.
If you’ve been involved in a car wreck in Asheville or anywhere in North Carolina, contact us for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and explain your legal options.
