When commercial trucks collide with passenger vehicles, the results are often disastrous. Each year, 500,000 big rig accidents occur in the United States, and each year, these crashes end up costing trucking companies an estimated $20 billion in settlements. If you’ve been hurt in a big rig accident in Victoria, Texas, you are probably in the process of looking for a Victoria truck injury lawyer in order to receive compensation for your injuries and financial losses. But do you know what to look for in an 18 wheeler accident attorney in Victoria?
If you’re not sure how to choose the right Victoria 18 wheeler accident attorney, our team at Carabin shaw has compiled a list of qualifications to consider and questions to ask before making your final decision. All good attorneys offer their clients a free initial consultation—it’s an opportunity for you to make sure that their firm is the right fit for your case. Here are five factors to ask your potential Texas big rig accident attorney about during your consultation.
1. Experience With Trucking Accidents in TexasThe most important consideration when choosing an attorney for your trucking accident is experience. Trucking accident cases are complex and difficult to litigate because they require in-depth, specialized knowledge of your state’s trucking accident laws and regulations. What many people don’t realize is that truck drivers are governed by different laws than ordinary drivers—so just because an attorney is an expert in car accident cases does not mean that they are capable of handling a commercial vehicle accident case. Ask your potential Victoria truck injury lawyer what percentage of their caseload involves big rig accidents.
2. ResourcesTrucking companies employ massive legal teams, whose main purpose is to help the company avoid paying out costly settlements. You need to choose a large enough law firm with enough attorneys and paralegals to take on the trucking company; solo practitioners will simply not have the resources to take on a trucking accident case.
Furthermore, trucking accident cases will almost always require an expert witness who will testify about the causes of the wreck. In some cases, an accident reconstructionist may also be needed. Before hiring a Victoria 18 wheeler accident attorney, ask if their firm will provide access to these specialists and how often they work with them.
3. Professional ReputationAnother thing you’ll want to research is your potential lawyer’s professional reputation. Each state bar has an organization dedicated to investigating client complaints of law firms, making sure that no ethical violations have occurred. Make sure you research any potential lawyer’s disciplinary record online before hiring them—this information is public record, and can be accessed by visiting the State Bar of Texas website.
4. Client ReviewsWhile you’re online, you should also read client reviews of your potential lawyer. Are most clients satisfied with how the firm handled their case? As with any product, business, or service, reviews are great for providing a snapshot of customer satisfaction and can be an excellent tool when choosing among attorneys with similar levels of experience.
5. CompatibilityFinally, the last crucial factor to consider is whether or not you feel comfortable with your potential attorney. No matter who you choose, it’s important to hire a lawyer who you feel comfortable with and is someone who you can trust.
Looking for the Best 18 Wheeler Attorney in Victoria? Look No Further Than Carabin ShawOur personal injury lawyers at Carabin Shaw have been handling trucking accident cases for more than two decades and have a combined 200 years of legal experience. We have the resources, expertise, and the team to take on your trucking accident case—and your initial consultation is, of course, free of charge.
To learn how we can help you after your crash, call our office serving Victoria at (361) 444-1111 to schedule your free consultation with a Victoria 18 wheeler accident attorney. Let us help you get your life back on track by helping you get the compensation you deserve.