In Edmonton, the sound of honking horns and the rush of traffic are constant reminders of the fast-paced nature of urban life. Unfortunately, along with the convenience of modern transportation comes the risk of car accidents. According to CTV News Edmonton, almost 400 crashes occurred after the season’s first snowfall in the city in November 2022.
When faced with the aftermath of a collision, hiring a car accident lawyer becomes crucial in navigating the complex legal landscape. In this article, we will explore what to expect when engaging the services of a car accident lawyer in Edmonton.
The Initial Consultation
The journey with a car accident lawyer typically begins with an initial consultation. But before anything else, calling 911 to report the accident is vital. As stated in an article by Moving 2 Canada, calling 911 is essential if an injury occurred during the accident.
According to Moustarah & Company, it is also legally required if the other driver is suspected of intoxication. Similarly, in situations where laws have been violated, or it has been a hit-and-run case, you are legally bound to report the incident. Moreover, you are also required to wait for the police to arrive at the scene.
Even if you are not required to report, you should still share your driver’s license and insurance information with the other drivers involved. In places such as Ontario, you must also report to the Collision Reporting Centre within 24 hours. A good lawyer will ask you about this during the initial consultation.
Most reputable lawyers offer a free consultation to assess the viability of your case and determine how they can assist you. During this meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to share the details of the accident.
This can include any evidence you may have, such as photographs, witness statements, and medical records. The lawyer will ask questions to comprehensively understand the incident, your injuries, and the impact on your life.
Legal Assessment and Strategy
The car accident lawyer will conduct a legal assessment of your case after the initial consultation. This involves thoroughly examining the evidence, applicable laws, and potential liability factors.
Based on this assessment, the lawyer will develop a strategic plan tailored to your situation. This may include gathering additional evidence, consulting with accident reconstruction experts, and identifying responsible parties.
You must share all the details correctly to ensure the attorney develops a good strategy. A reliable car accident lawyer in Edmonton will keep asking you to recall and share the smallest details you remember. That’s because even small information can be used against you or help you win the case based on how your attorney uses it.
Communication with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting task, especially when you’re recovering from injuries. A seasoned car accident lawyer will handle all communication with insurance companies on your behalf.
This includes negotiating with the at-fault party’s insurer. If necessary, the attorney may pursue legal action to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, etc.
According to the Edmonton Journal, drivers in cities of Alberta, like Edmonton, are paying hefty amounts to insurance companies to avoid high legal costs. Once a claim enters litigation, the legal fees can eat into a large chunk of the settlement, say around 38%.
Legal Proceedings and Court Representation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your car accident lawyer will guide you through the process of initiating legal proceedings. This involves filing a lawsuit against the responsible party or parties.
In Edmonton, the court system will play a crucial role in resolving disputes related to car accidents. Your lawyer will represent you in court, presenting evidence, examining witnesses, and making legal arguments to support your case.
Moreover, the attorney will also help you with the paperwork. Your lawyer can handle the preparation and filing of legal documents, ensuring that everything is done correctly and within the required deadlines.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Recognizing the time and cost associated with court proceedings, many car accident cases in Edmonton are resolved through alternative dispute resolution methods. Some examples of these methods are mediation or arbitration.
A skilled automobile crash attorney will explore these options, seeking a resolution that is mutually agreeable to all parties involved. This can often lead to a quicker and less adversarial resolution than a traditional court trial.
Contingency Fee Arrangements
One of the key advantages of hiring a car accident lawyer in Edmonton is the availability of contingency fee arrangements. In this payment model, the lawyer’s fees are contingent on the case’s successful outcome.
In the context of car accidents, this means that the lawyer only receives payment if they secure a favorable settlement. This arrangement aligns the lawyer’s interests with those of the client, as both parties share the goal of achieving a positive outcome.
Typically, the contingency fee is a percentage of the final settlement or court award. This percentage is agreed upon between the client and the lawyer before the legal proceedings begin. It is crucial for you to thoroughly discuss and understand the specific terms of the contingency fee arrangement.
Negotiation Skills and Advocacy
Effective negotiation skills are paramount in resolving car accident cases. A seasoned automobile accident attorney in Edmonton will possess strong negotiation skills, advocating for your interests at every stage of the legal process.
Whether dealing with insurance companies, opposing counsel, or settlement discussions, your lawyer will work for you. According to the Canadian Lawyer Magazine, the attorney can get you Canadian $300,000 for damages in personal injury. But how much you get depends on your attorney’s negotiation skills.
Employing negotiation techniques to achieve a fair settlement is a core skill for attorneys. This includes understanding the value of the case, setting realistic expectations, and advocating for the best possible outcome for the client. Knowing when to be assertive and when to compromise is crucial in reaching a favorable resolution.
To conclude, a car accident lawyer serves as a crucial ally in the pursuit of justice and fair compensation in Edmonton. From the initial consultation to court representation, these legal professionals guide you through every step of the process. With effective negotiation skills, knowledge of local laws, and a commitment to your well-being, a car accident lawyer becomes a trusted advocate.
