If you’ve been a victim of a car accident in Texas, your mind is already reeling. Just trying to process and recover from the physical and emotional toll the accident has taken on you and your family is difficult enough as it is. On top of that, if the thought of hiring an attorney to pursue a legal settlement has you even more stressed, rest assured that one thing you won’t have to worry about is paying any upfront costs for legal representation.

Here in Texas, many personal injury lawyers like us work on a contingency fee basis. That means our clients don’t pay a single penny of upfront costs. Instead, their attorney’s fees are a percentage of their final settlement. If we don’t win your case, you don’t pay a cent. Below we break down how these fees work and what you can expect during a personal injury claim in Austin.

Understanding Contingency Fees in Texas

A contingency fee arrangement means your lawyer only gets paid if you win your case or secure a settlement. Most car accident lawyers in Texas charge a contingency fee that typically ranges from 30% to 40% of the final settlement amount. This percentage depends on several factors, such as:

• The complexity of your case
• Whether your case settles out of court or goes to trial
• The law firm’s standard fee structure

In addition to the contingency fee, other costs may also be deducted from your settlement, including filing fees and court costs, expert witness fees, medical record retrieval costs, and investigation expenses. Even though these costs are often initially paid by your attorney, they are usually deducted from your settlement (in addition to the contingency fee). Make sure you discuss these potential expenses with your lawyer so you have a clear picture of your net recovery.

Is Hiring a Car Accident Attorney Worth It?

While it may seem like a lawyer takes a large portion of your settlement, keep in mind that attorneys have the experience and expertise to negotiate higher settlements with insurance companies, handle all legal paperwork and deadlines, and take your case to court if necessary. Moreover, victims who hire an attorney typically recover significantly more compensation than those who negotiate on their own.

Before signing a contingency fee agreement with a car accident attorney, it’s important to thoroughly review the document so you understand how much both you and your attorney should expect to receive from the settlement. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if anything is unclear. A reputable law firm will be happy to walk you through the details and ensure you’re comfortable with the arrangement.

Contact Us a McKinney Vos PLLC for a Free Consultation

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident is challenging enough without worrying about hidden fees or unclear legal arrangements. By choosing a reputable law firm that operates on a contingency fee basis, you can take a significant step toward securing the compensation you deserve while keeping your financial burdens to a minimum.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident or have questions about Texas personal injury law, contact our office at McKinney Vos for a free, no-commitment consultation.