Florida has the third-highest number of occupational truck drivers in the United States, sitting behind California and Texas. With nearly 90,000 drivers behind the wheel of big rigs, it’s no wonder that in 2018 there were over 30,000 truck accidents in the state.
If you’ve been in a truck accident in Miami, you know how hard it is to move on. From physical pain and mental anguish to financial stress, there’s more than enough on your plate without having to worry about finding a high-quality lawyer.
Finding the Right Attorney Is Easy
You may not think the additional work of fighting for adequate compensation is worth it right now. However, an experienced lawyer can ease the burden of this entire process. Ensuring you’ve got good representation after a Miami truck accident is a smart move when planning for your long term health and wealth.
But how are you supposed to know what to look for in a Miami truck accident attorney? If you’re not going off of the reference of a trusted family member or friend, it can be a pretty difficult thing to search for.
Below you can find a list of key qualities your legal representative should have. Or, you can find a highly-regarded, experienced truck accident lawyer in the Miami area at Steinger, Greene & Feiner. Our attorneys have helped thousands of truck accident victims get the compensation they need to cover damages.
Schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation with one of our Miami truck accident attorneys today when you call (800) 801-6850 or contact us online now.
Qualities to Look for in a Miami Truck Accident Lawyer
When searching for an attorney or speaking with a firm directly, there are a lot of factors you’ll want to consider before making a decision. You’ll want to find a lawyer who:
Knows Your Options
After providing some detail about your truck accident, your lawyer should be able to give you a list of options. This could include filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance, filing a lawsuit against the driver, or even not filing at all, if your case is not viable.
Explains What Happens Next
After your lawyer lists your options, you will need to decide how to proceed. You will not want to go into the lawsuit process blind, so make sure to ask your lawyer what to expect in the coming weeks or months.
They should be able to describe the upcoming steps, what actions you need to take, how long they may take, and how specifics about your truck accident may make things different than other cases
You don’t want an attorney that keeps you in the dark about the process or your options. Learning how to file a claim will help you better understand how much time and work goes into getting you a proper settlement. A trustworthy lawyer will keep you in the loop throughout the entire process.
Has a History Settling Cases Like Yours
Like most other industries where experience is a plus, you probably don’t want a lawyer that just passed the bar this morning to represent you in court.
Not all personal injury lawyers have the same experience with the same types of cases. Some specialize in slip-and-falls, some focus on medical malpractice, and others focus on vehicle accidents. Your firm should have a history of winning cases for victims of similar types of negligence.
When dealing with truck accidents specifically, your lawyer should know about the ins and outs of the trucking industry. They should be well-versed in Florida motor vehicle statutes, specifically those that relate to the operation of commercial vehicles. They should know to look for logs relating to how long the truck driver had been on the road, hiring practices of the responsible freight company or contractor, and any other evidence of negligence on the driver’s behalf.
They should also be able to tell you how much your specific damages could be worth, how they can fight insurance company low-ball tactics, and how they’ve won cases for similar damages in the past.
Has an Excellent Reputation
With Clients
An experienced law firm will have enough cases under their belt to accumulate positive reviews and testimonials from previous clients. You should be able to find out about past cases quickly, without digging too deep. If you’re unable to find either of these things, it may be evidence of a novice firm, or worse, a lousy one.
With Peers and Legal Institutions
A top-tier law firm will have awards from prestigious legal organizations and a habit of employing the best of the best.
Works Well With You
You want a lawyer you feel comfortable talking to regularly. You should come out of meetings with your attorney feeling confident and prepared.
They should answer your questions and address your concerns without making you feel rushed or pressured into making a decision you’re not comfortable with.
Choosing a Miami Truck Accident Attorney
Honest communication with your legal representation is key to winning your case. While the above list explains tactics you can employ to find a quality lawyer, keep in mind that your actions will also shape the likelihood of a good outcome.
Follow your attorney’s directions when it comes to the recovery process. Keep detailed notes and hold onto any paperwork concerning medical procedures. Go to all doctor and therapy appointments and don’t over-share details of your case with anyone other than your attorney.
If you’re worried about choosing an attorney, you can’t go wrong with a free consultation. Call Steinger, Greene & Feiner for help settling your Miami truck accident case at (800) 801-6850. Or, fill out our online form and schedule your first meeting today.