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Truck accidents usually come with a hefty price tag. After a truck crash chances are you will face not only physical injuries and mental anguish, but you will deal with huge medical costs. You may have to take time off from work, which means the loss of a paycheck. With these financial expenses piling up, truck accident victims often have the same question – how much will it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?
While the answer depends on a variety of factors, there are a few conditions victims need to understand to calculate the cost versus the potential reward.
Personal injury attorney’s fees are often calculated on an hourly rate or contingency basis. This can greatly alter the cost associated with your claim and the cost to hire an attorney.
Most personal injury lawyers who focus on truck accident claims operate on a contingency fee structure. This means that you do not pay a lawyer’s fee up front. Should you be awarded a settlement with the legal advice of a truck accident attorney, their fee is taken as a percentage of your settlement or award. Often, this percentage is one-third of your winnings. If you’re worried that an attorney’s fee will affect the amount you need to pay your bills, just know that the truck accident lawyer will do whatever they can to make sure you are properly compensated for your injuries.
When a personal injury attorney utilizes the contingency fee system, you have the opportunity to work with a lawyer that you may not have otherwise been able to afford. Further, this ensures that you are getting the highest quality representation, as the attorney is only paid if they win your case.
In addition, many attorneys offer a free evaluation of the case prior to signing you on, meaning that the cost of legal services does not begin until you are contracted with that law firm. It also gives you a chance to get an understanding of what your case is worth and to learn how a truck accident lawyer can help you with your truck accident case. The free consultation means that you are not under any obligation to hire a truck accident attorney.
If your personal injury lawyer is working on a contingency fee basis and they are unsuccessful in getting you the compensation you deserve, you may be wondering if you still have to pay their fees. The answer is no. If your case is not resolved, then you do not have to pay the attorney.
This gives you peace of mind, knowing that you have someone who will be doing everything they can to make sure you get the compensation you deserve following a trucking accident.
In addition to the legal fees your personal injury lawyer requests, there are other expenses that you should expect with a truck accident case. Generally, the lawyer will take on these expenses and then add them to your final tab once the case closes.
The following are costs associated with evidence, legal costs, etc. you may incur in order to strengthen your claim:
These expenses may be deducted before the lawyer’s typical fees while others may deduct expenses after the fees.
Further, should the attorney not win the case, you may be expected to pay the cost out of your own pocket for these expenses. Be sure to ask during your free consultation.
Compared to the contingency fee, an hourly fee is often a much more financially difficult cost for accident victims. In fact, in 2020, it was estimated that lawyers on average earn $73.86 an hour.
When you consider the amount of time a lawyer spends per case, this can really add up. Not to mention coupled with the other legal fees associated with filing a lawsuit. Often, there is little to no financial resources for victims, which is why a contingency fee is often the best option for a truck accident victim.
Some ask, “Can I afford legal representation?” When in reality, you may need to ask yourself, “Can you afford to not have it?”
If you have been injured in a truck accident resulting in severe injuries, loss of income, or even death of a loved one, chances are you cannot afford to be without an attorney-client relationship.
Your attorney will be able to:
Further, if you have suffered severely, you may be in the midst of medical treatment, rehabilitation, therapy, etc., making your mind not in the place it needs to be for a strong legal case. Your attorney can gather evidence, meet with witnesses, speak to authorities, complete paperwork, and protect your legal rights, should you be unable to do so yourself.
The bottom line is this–you cannot afford to not hire a truck accident lawyer.
When you are involved in a claim with trucking companies after experiencing physical pain, economic damages, and property damages that result in injuries, you need a team to help with settlement negotiations. Whether you live in Washington, DC, Maryland, or Virginia, Regan Zambri Long will get the best results possible for your case. Contact us today for a no-obligation, free consultation of your case. You don’t pay until we win.
Schedule your free legal consultation call at (202) 960-4746 or by filling out our online form.
