Hiring injury lawyers in Ontario: Top common questions answered

You sustained injuries in a freak accident in Ontario, where the other party was clearly negligent or at fault. In California, you can sue the at-fault party and ask for a settlement for the damages. For that, lawyering up would be a smart step. You can file an injury case independently, but an experienced lawyer can help you win a better settlement for your losses. A lot also depends on the circumstances. In this post, check answers for common questions related to hiring an Ontario, CA personal injury lawyer. 

• When is it important to hire an injury lawyer?

The worth of your claim depends on several factors. In case of auto accidents, your share in the blame (if any) will determine the final settlement. If you believe that your losses wouldn’t exceed $10,000, you can perhaps manage to negotiate with the claims adjuster without an attorney. You should hire an injury lawyer if – 

1. You have sustained catastrophic or serious injuries
2. You share the blame for the accident
3. There is no immediate clarity on liability
4. You have suffered significant losses
5. Your injuries are likely to impact your ability to work

Most attorneys offer a free initial assessment for clients, and it makes sense to get an overview of the claim. 

• How much do injury lawyers charge in Ontario?

Unlike family lawyers or general attorneys, injury lawyers work on a contingency fee. The lawyer can only get a fee when the client wins financial compensation from the insurance company or the at-fault party. You don’t pay a lawyer right away. However, it is wise to get an estimate of the potential expenses and the attorney’s fee. The standard range for contingency fees of injury lawyers in California varies from 30% to 40%. 

• What to expect from an injury lawyer?

Your attorney will offer a review of the case and help you determine fault and liability. This may involve considerable work on their part, like investigating the accident, talking to experts, gathering evidence, and witness statements. Your injury lawyer will also take care of the negotiations and handle the claims-related paperwork. While most cases are settled outside of the court, your attorney can file a lawsuit when needed. You can also expect the lawyer to manage all communication with other parties involved. 

Now that you are aware of the basics, get an attorney for your injury lawsuit now. You have just two years in California to take legal action.