Car accidents can turn your life upside down. Suddenly, you’re dealing with injuries, emotional stress, and medical bills. When this happens, having a skilled lawyer on your side becomes crucial. But how do you find the right car accident attorney? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to choose the perfect legal partner—one who will fight for your rights, maximize your compensation, and guide you through the legal process. So, fasten your seatbelt—we’re about to embark on a journey toward justice!

Car Accident Statistics: 2000 to 2024

Fatal Car Crashes

  • The number of fatal car crashes has been on the rise over the last several years.
  • From 2018 to 2022, the number of deadly accidents increased by more than 16%, going from 36,835 fatal car crashes in 2018 to 42,795 in 2022.
  • In 2021, there were approximately 6,102,936 police-reported vehicle accidents in the U.S., out of which 39,508 were fatal. This makes the effective deadly car crash death rate 0.7%.
  • Factors such as seat belt usage and speeding significantly impact the chances of survival in car accidents.

Daily Average of Fatal Car Crashes

  • 2020: An average of 107 fatal car accidents per day.
  • 2021: The highest daily average of car accident fatalities: 118 a day.
  • 2022: An average of 117 fatal accidents per day.
  • Interestingly, even during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when Americans were driving less, fatalities did not decrease significantly.

Age Groups at Risk

  • Car crashes are the leading cause of death in the U.S. for people ages 1 to 54.
  • Teens (ages 13 to 19) are especially vulnerable, with motor vehicle crashes being the No. 1 leading cause of death in this age group. Teen drivers between 16 and 19 are nearly 3 times more likely to die in a car crash than drivers aged 20 and up.

Historical Comparison

  • The current motor-related death rate of 14.3 deaths per 100,000 people is a 54% improvement over 1937, when the U.S. had 30.8 traffic-related deaths per 100,000 people.

Understanding Car Accident Insurance Settlement Amounts

Average Settlement Amounts

  • In 2020, the average car accident settlements ranged between $20,000 and $25,000.
  • A survey by the Insurance Information Institute found an average injury settlement amount of $20,235 and an average property damage settlement of $4,711.
  • Another survey by Martindale-Nolo reported an average settlement of $23,900.
  • However, it's essential to note that most respondents received less than $10,000.

Factors Influencing Settlements

  • Medical Bills: Compensation includes medical expenses related to injuries sustained in the accident.
  • Lost Wages: Settlements account for income lost due to injuries.
  • Pain and Suffering: Emotional distress and physical pain are considered.
  • Property Damage: Damages to vehicles and other property are factored in.
  • Insurance Coverage: The available insurance coverage affects the settlement.
  • Fault Determination: The responsible party impacts the settlement negotiation.

Settlement Process

  • When a crash occurs, the person responsible for causing the accident is expected to cover the victim's damages.
  • The responsible party's liability auto insurance typically pays for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and other losses.
  • The insurer representing the at-fault driver usually offers a lump sum settlement to collision victims.
  • If the victim accepts the offer, the case is resolved. Otherwise, a car accident lawsuit may follow.

Choosing the Right Car Accident Attorney

Choosing the right car accident lawyer is crucial, as it can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here are some essential steps to help you find the right attorney:

Evaluate Experience

  • Look for an attorney with specific experience in car accident cases. Check if they have handled similar cases and taken them to trial.
  • A winning track record of obtaining appropriate settlements and judgments from insurance companies is essential.

Contingency Fees

  • Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive a settlement or judgment.
  • Understand the fee structure, including the percentage they charge (typically around 33%) and any additional costs like filing fees or expert witness fees.

Research and Reviews

  • Read reviews from past clients to gauge an attorney's reputation and effectiveness.
  • Consider using local lawyer directories to compare experiences and find attorneys who offer fixed fee services.

Communication Skills and Availability

  • Effective communication is crucial. Choose an attorney who is responsive and keeps you informed throughout the process.
  • Ensure they are available to discuss your case and answer your questions.

Personalized Attention

  • Look for an attorney who provides personalized attention to your case.
  • Avoid attorneys who handle too many cases simultaneously, as it may affect the quality of representation.

Remember, finding the right car accident attorney involves asking the right questions and considering their experience, fees, and communication skills. Take your time to make an informed decision.