Hello...I was in an auto accident over a year ago, rear-ended on the highway. Clearly the other person's fault 100%. I'm still suffering neck problems and a lawyer has offered to take up my case on contingency (I don't have to pay him anything, he gets a third of the settlement). He claims I'll get more money with his help, even after he takes a third of the settlement.

Is there any reason to not hire this lawyer? I can settle directly with the (other party's) insurance company, who has told me they'll compensate me.

Has anyone else here been through this?

I am only speaking in generalities and am in no way offering legal advice.

Many times, once you settle with the insurance company, that's it. If you actually go to court with representation, you can show ongoing pain and suffering and receive a judgment that may compensate you for future needs.

That said, I would be suspicious of any lawyer that sought me out. I would find my own representation if choosing to go that route.
[Edited 10/14/08 20:57pm]

heartbeatocean said:

Find out what the insurance company is offering. If it's agreeable, settle directly with them. If not, find your own lawyer. You may come out better dealing directly with the insurance company than giving someone a third.

Mars23 said:

Thanks. He was referred to me by my chiropractor. Actually, I called my chiropractor and asked them who was the lawyer they referred people to. I just called him to get some info and was surprised he was so ready to take my case. He just jumped on it!

The reason I called him is that I have ongoing pain, and its not healing, and I know the insurance company wants to seal the deal and pay me off. Also, my own insurance ran out, so I have to start paying out-of-pocket to get healthcare. But the lawyer claims if he's on board, I can get care and not have to pay out of pocket.

Stymie said:

The lawyer was clear that I would get more if I worked with him. I just don't know if I should believe him or not. I'm going to have a conversation with the insurance company to get a feel for what they can offer.

heartbeatocean said:

Haven't you heard the term "Ambulance Chaser"?

I think Mars gave good advice. Do a little asking around of others and see if you can get a few more recommendations about good attorneys.

I did this for my divorce attorney and it really, really paid off.

hokie said:

I want to do that. I'm just not sure who to ask.

heartbeatocean said:

Do you live in a small town? Maybe ask around at work? Or school?

hokie said:

I live in a large metropolis. But I'll start asking around.

heartbeatocean said:

I was fortunate that I lived in a small town where just about everybody knew everybody so I had people that I totally trusted and that I knew were after my best interests give me recommendations.

Good luck.

heartbeatocean said:

If he's involved with a chiropractor, you can be assured he's a scam artist. That's just my opinion, but I live in the Mecca of Chiropractic, that shit is a scam.

Sorry. I can't give unbiased advice when they're involved.

Mars23 said:

I really like my chiropractor, been seeing him for ten years or so. But I still feel cautious, especially with this feeling of the lawyer gluing himself onto my case after a single phone call.

heartbeatocean said:

There you go. If you have a bad gut feeling then it's best not to go with him. Listen to your instincts. They are your best guide.