If a negligent driver has hurt you, you may be wondering how to find the rightFort Lauderdale car accident attorney for your case. In this article, we’ll cover some important questions to ask.
Choosing the right attorney after a car accident can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with pain, property damage, or lost income. Your legal representation can make the difference between a quick, fair settlement and a drawn-out battle with insurance companies. The lawyer you hire should not only be experienced but also responsive, trustworthy, and fully invested in your recovery, both physical and financial.
What Questions Should I Ask My Lawyer for a Car Accident Case?
Below are some questions to get your lawyer search started.
What Experience Do You Have With Car Accident Cases in Fort Lauderdale?
Finding a local attorney is helpful as they will be familiar with local laws, the court system, and the specifics of your case. Additionally, having a lawyer local to the area means you have support where you need it when you need it.
Fort Lauderdale presents unique challenges in auto accident litigation, from busy intersections like Broward Boulevard and Federal Highway to high tourism traffic near Las Olas. A local attorney understands patterns in accident hotspots, jury tendencies in Broward County, and how local police reports, traffic camera footage, and witness statements can be used strategically. Their network with local experts, doctors, and courts adds invaluable efficiency to your case.
Have You Handled Cases Similar to Mine?
Understanding the Complexity: Have You Handled Cases Similar to Mine?
What Is Your Success Rate in Car Accident Cases?
A solid track record doesn’t guarantee results, but it shows consistency. Ask if the lawyer can show theircase results ortestimonials from previous clients.
What Are Your Fees?
ManyFort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers, including our own, work on a contingency fee basis. Under this fee style, you pay no upfront costs. Instead, your attorney’s fees come from your settlement.
It’s also important to ask what percentage your attorney will take if you win, and whether expenses (like expert witness fees, medical record requests, or filing costs) will be deducted before or after the attorney’s cut. Reputable lawyers will clearly explain this in your retainer agreement. Make sure you’re not caught off guard by backend deductions or unclear billing practices. Transparency is a key part of trust.
If they are unable to recover compensation, then you owe them nothing.
How Will We Communicate?
Good communication is essential to combat the stress of the legal process. Ask how often you will get case updates, how you can reach out to your legal team, and whether there’s a way to get after-hours or weekend help when needed.
Ask if your case will be handled by the attorney directly or passed to a junior associate or paralegal. While legal teams work collaboratively, you deserve to know who your main point of contact will be and whether they’ll be accessible when you have questions. Some firms offer client portals or case tracking tools to make communication smoother, an especially valuable feature if you have a busy schedule or are dealing with ongoing medical treatment.
What’s the Timeline for My Case?
In Florida, you typically only havetwo years to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, every case’sstatute of limitations is unique. If yours is relatively straightforward, such as an accident involving a drunk driver who has admitted fault, then the process may be quick. In other cases, the investigation may take time and require expert support (such as from an accident reconstruction specialist). While there is no way for your lawyer to give an exact timeline, they should be able to tell you a rough idea of what to expect.
Keep in mind that the timeline can also depend on how willing the opposing party is to negotiate in good faith. If the insurance company delays, offers lowball settlements, or disputes liability, your lawyer may need to take the case to court. While this extends the duration, it may be necessary to secure full and fair compensation. A good attorney will prepare your case from day one as if it might go to trial—even if it settles out of court. This strategy often leads to better offers during negotiations.
Remember, the sooner you begin the process, the better your chances of preserving critical evidence, such as witness statements, video footage, or black box data from the vehicle. Insurance companies often act quickly to protect their bottom line, so having a lawyer by your side early ensures you’re not taken advantage of during vulnerable moments. Don’t wait until your medical bills pile up or your financial stability is threatened—legal help is available right away, providing you with the support you need during this challenging time.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been harmed and someone else was at fault, our Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers are here to help. We will guide you through the entire legal process, from the initial claim filing to courtroom representation (if necessary).
The Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato is proud to have recovered over $200 million in personal injury settlements, a testament to our commitment and expertise. We’ll fight for the maximum compensation you are eligible to receive, which may include coverage for lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses.Contact us today at(844) 643-7200 for a free consultation.