When you’re involved in a car accident, the last thing you want to worry about while recovering from your injuries is negotiating with insurance companies and navigating the legal process. This is where the services of a personal injury lawyer come into play. But many accident victims find themselves asking, “How much does a lawyer get from a car accident settlement?”
Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning the lawyer’s fee is a percentage of the compensation you get. This percentage can range from 33% to 40% and is usually around 33%.
In this blog, we will explore how contingency fees work, how much lawyers typically receive from a settlement, and why hiring an Atlanta car accident lawyer is crucial in ensuring you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.
If you have been hurt in a car crash in Georgia, reach out to the Weinstein Firm today for a free consultation.
How Much Do Car Accident Lawyers Charge?
One of the most common concerns among car accident victims is the cost of hiring a lawyer. Fortunately, most Atlanta personal injury lawyers, including our team at the Weinstein Firm, work on a contingency fee basis. But what does that mean for you?
A contingency fee arrangement is designed to make legal services accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Under this agreement, car accident lawyers charge no upfront costs; instead, their payment depends on successfully securing a settlement or winning your case in court. In simple terms, if you don’t win your case or receive a settlement, you don’t owe your lawyer any fees.
This contingency fee structure is particularly beneficial for clients because it aligns the lawyer’s interests with yours—both parties are motivated to maximize the compensation.
Most personal injury lawyers work on contingency fees, offering peace of mind to accident victims who are already dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and other financial burdens.
What Percentage Does a Lawyer Get From a Car Accident Settlement?
When you enter into a contingency fee agreement with an Atlanta car accident lawyer, the percentage they receive from your settlement will be clearly outlined in the contract.
The standard contingency fee percentage typically ranges from 33% to 40% of the total compensation. This percentage can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the stage at which the case is resolved, and the law firm you choose.
For instance, if your case is settled out of court, the contingency fee might be on the lower end of the spectrum—around 33%. However, if your case goes to trial, where additional time, resources, and legal expertise are required, the fee might increase to 40% or more.
It’s important to talk with your car accident lawyer and read the contingency fee agreement to ensure you understand the terms.
Other Possible Legal Fees in a Car Accident Case
While the contingency fee covers your lawyer’s payment for their services, there may be additional court costs and expenses in your car accident case. These expenses can include:
- Court Filing Fees: If your case goes to court, there are filing fees that need to be paid to the court to initiate legal proceedings.
- Expert Witness Fees: In some personal injury cases, expert witnesses may be called upon to provide testimony that supports your claim. These experts, such as medical professionals or accident reconstruction specialists, charge for their services.
- Medical Records Fees: Obtaining your medical records is essential for building your case, and healthcare providers may charge a fee for providing copies of these records.
- Deposition Costs: If depositions are necessary, there may be costs associated with hiring a court reporter and obtaining transcripts.
- Costs for Investigations: In complex car accident cases, additional investigations may be required to gather evidence, such as hiring private investigators or accident reconstruction experts.
How these legal costs are managed can differ. Some lawyers cover these expenses upfront, while others may require clients to pay them as they arise.
In most contingency fee arrangements, these additional costs are paid by your attorney and then deducted from your settlement or verdict after the attorney’s fee is calculated.
Why You Need an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. From dealing with insurance companies to understanding your legal rights, the process can be complicated, especially when you’re focused on recovery. This is where the expertise of an experienced car accident lawyer becomes invaluable.
Gather Evidence to Support Your Claim
Building a strong case requires thorough investigation and evidence collection. A car accident lawyer will gather police reports, medical records, witness statements, and other critical evidence to support your claim.
Calculate Your Damages
Determining the full extent of your damages is crucial. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A skilled personal injury attorney will assess all aspects of your situation. They will ensure that no potential compensation is overlooked. This detailed evaluation can significantly impact the settlement amount you receive.
Handle Negotiations with the Insurance Company
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and without legal representation, you might not receive the fair compensation you deserve. An experienced lawyer understands the tactics insurance companies use and will negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
Provide Legal Representation in Court
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may go to court. Having a skilled accident lawyer who is prepared to represent you in front of a judge and jury can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
What Compensation Can I Get in a Car Accident Claim?
Here’s an overview of the types of compensation you may be entitled to in an auto accident case:
- Medical Bills: This includes both current and future medical expenses, such as hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be compensated for lost income. This can also include compensation for future lost earning capacity if your ability to work is permanently affected.
- Property Damage: Compensation for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any other property damaged in the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: This type of compensation is intended to cover the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries.
- Other Out-of-Pocket Expenses: This can include costs such as transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, and assistance with daily activities during your recovery.
- Punitive Damages: If the at-fault driver’s behavior was particularly reckless, courts may award punitive damages in a car accident lawsuit. These damages are not available as part of a settlement.
How Much Is a Car Accident Case Worth?
One of the most common questions car accident victims have is about the potential value of their case. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average settlement for bodily injury liability claims in 2022 was $24, 211. The average settlement for property damage liability claims in 2022 was $5,313.
The amount you may receive in a car accident settlement depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and the impact on your quality of life.
Several factors can influence the value of your case, including:
- Severity of Injuries: The more severe and long-lasting your injuries, the higher your compensation is likely to be.
- Clear Liability: If the other party is clearly at fault, it can lead to a higher settlement. If both drivers share fault, it may reduce the amount you can recover.
- Insurance Coverage: The amount of insurance coverage available from the at-fault party’s insurance company will impact the potential settlement.
- Strength of Evidence: Strong evidence, such as clear medical documentation, witness statements, and expert testimony, can increase the value of your case.
Having an experienced auto accident lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your case. They will ensure all your damages are accurately accounted for and that you receive the maximum compensation possible.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Georgia?
In Georgia, there is a strict deadline, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a personal injury lawsuit. In most cases, you have two years from the accident to file your claim. Missing the deadline can result in losing your right to pursue compensation.
It’s important to contact an Atlanta car accident attorney as soon as possible.
Contact Our Georgia Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been involved in a car wreck, it’s important to know that you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. By hiring a skilled car accident lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while we handle legal matters, negotiations with insurance companies, and court representation if necessary.
At The Weinstein Firm, we will fight for the maximum compensation. Our Atlanta personal injury attorneys have won millions for clients. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there is no upfront cost and you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Contact our Georgia car accident lawyers today at 770-HELP-NOW or fill out a form for a free consultation to discuss your case.
