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Victims that have suffered injuries in a car accident are typically very confused about what the next step is. Mounting medical bills, combined with extended time away from work, make for a very stressful time in a person’s life.

The road to recovery for many victims begins by hiring a personal injury lawyer. But not all lawyers are created equal. Do your research and find the right car accident attorney for you.

What should you look for in the attorney you hire?

Experience: If you’ve been seriously injured in an accident, there is no replacement for experience on the part of your attorney. A veteran attorney that knows the law and has knowledge and expertise will drastically improve your odds of winning the most compensation possible.

Focus: If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t hire an attorney that handles primarily slip and fall cases. Having a knowledge of one type of law is crucial to your case. About 98 percent of cases are settled out of court, so knowing how to negotiate a fair and reasonable settlement is important, as many factors are involved.

Reputation: You want an attorney that has the respect of the community, media and legal realm. An attorney’s reputation can go a long way, as it provides value from a plaintiff’s perspective.

Objectivity: Some attorneys only want to settle cases out of court, and either have no ability to try a case in court or don’t have the resources to handle a case for that long. Make sure your attorney is objective and has your best interests in mind.

Personality: Having a strong relationship with your attorney is important. Oftentimes serious cases will take years to complete. Feeling a close bond with your attorney is important.