If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a truck accident, it is extremely important that you speak with an attorney about your legal rights. Serious and fatal truck accidents can lead to significant out-of-pocket costs, and suffering traumatic injuries or losing a loved one can negatively impact your life in many other ways as well. If the truck driver (or another party) was at fault in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses under Illinois law.
But, how do you choose a truck accident attorney? Once you choose an attorney, how do you hire them?
While many people find these questions stressful, hiring a Chicago truck accident attorney is not a difficult or complicated process. There are some important factors to consider when making your decision, and then once you decide your attorney should guide you the rest of the way.
Here is an overview of the five major steps involved in hiring a truck accident attorney:
First, you will want to do some online research. Once you find a law firm that handles truck accident cases in your area, you will want to review the firm’s website for several important pieces of information. These include:
If you find a firm that looks like it might be a good option, your next step is to schedule a free consultation. You will want to do this as soon as possible, as any delays in getting started could make it more difficult to recover the compensation you deserve. You should be able to schedule a free consultation over the phone or by getting in touch online, and you should be able to speak with an attorney within the next 24 hours—if not right away.
Once you schedule your free consultation, you should take some steps to prepare. For example, you should take detailed notes about the accident (write down everything you can remember), and you should collect any records you currently have—including your copy of the police report if you have it. Your attorney will need to rely on you for information at this stage, so it is important that you bring as much information with you as possible.
While some people feel nervous about speaking with a truck accident attorney, a good attorney will make you feel comfortable from the moment you sit down for your free consultation. The attorney will ask lots of questions so that he or she can gain an understanding of your case. There will be no judgment; and, if you don’t have a case to pursue, that’s okay. Not everyone who schedules a free consultation does.
If it appears that you do have a case, at the end of your free consultation your attorney will go over next steps. This includes both what your attorney will do and what he or she will need you to do to help.
The final step before getting started is to sign an engagement agreement. This agreement confirms that the law firm will handle your case on a contingency-fee basis. You should not be asked to pay anything out of pocket, and the agreement should clearly state the costs and fees that will be deducted from your award if your case is successful.
Truck accident cases can be extremely complex, and require the knowledge, skill, and resources of an experienced lawyer. To learn how a truck accident attorney can help your case, call Coplan + Crane today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Don’t face your injury alone. Contact our office today online or at (708) 358-8080 to speak with an experienced Chicago truck accident attorney. Coplan + Crane proudly serves clients throughout Illinois, including Chicago, Oak Park, Rockford, and other nearby areas.
