How Expensive Is It To Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Clearwater, FL?

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers | Car Accident

How Expensive Is It To Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Clearwater, FL?

If you have been involved in a car accident in Clearwater, Florida, you may wonder about the cost of hiring a car accident lawyer. No doubt you have seen countless advertisements on TV promising aggressive attorneys who will fight for your rights and state they won’t charge you anything upfront.

But how expensive is it really to hire a car accident lawyer in Clearwater, FL? Let’s delve into the details to help you understand the costs involved.

Understanding Contingency Fees

Car accident lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay anything upfront. They will only earn a percentage of the settlement or jury verdict if your case is successful. If they don’t win compensation for your case, you owe them nothing in attorney’s fees.

This fee arrangement is outlined in a retainer agreement. This is to ensure transparency and clarity in your legal representation. It’s a reassuring reminder that car accident lawyers are firmly on your side, working diligently to secure the compensation you deserve.

Considerations Regarding Car Accident Lawyer Fees

In Florida, car accident lawyers work to get you as much compensation without going to court or trial. For personal injury cases that avoid trial, they usually charge around 33% of the settlement amount. They want to ensure that your medical bills and out-of-pocket expenses are covered.

However, sometimes the percentage may be higher – depending on the facts and circumstances of the case. Below are some examples that may increase the contingency fee percentage.

Severity of Injuries and Damages

The extent of your injuries and the resulting damages play a significant role in determining legal fees. Cases involving severe injuries, broken bones, long-term disabilities, or extensive property damage often require more time and resources to secure fair compensation, potentially leading to higher attorney’s fees.

Complexity of the Case

Some car accident cases are straightforward, with clear liability and minimal disputes. However, complex cases involving multiple third parties, disputed liability, or issues of contributory negligence can be more time-consuming to resolve, leading to increased legal costs.

Evidence and Documentation

The quality and availability of evidence and documentation can show causation, and negligence can also impact costs. Gathering and presenting strong evidence to support your claim may require expert witnesses, accident reconstruction, medical records, and other resources, all of which can influence legal expenses.

Considering the Risk of Going to Trial

It’s crucial to understand that the 40% fee should not discourage you from pursuing a trial if it’s in your best interest. Remember, a car accident lawyer aims to maximize compensation for the economic and non-economic damages you’ve experienced without going to trial. But it may be necessary to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Your attorney will never push you to accept a lowball settlement, as their primary objective is to secure the compensation you deserve. The 40% fee ensures that your attorney can cover additional expenses while still providing you with the representation you need. 

Nonetheless, keep in mind that cases rarely go to trial, let alone court in the first place. And even with the higher fee, you will likely come out ahead versus if you hadn’t hired a lawyer.

Timely Consultation Is Key

It can take time to get your life back on track after a car accident. Florida allows a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. But waiting too long can jeopardize your case. The sooner you consult with an attorney, the better, as it gives them ample time to:

If you’ve been in a car accident in Clearwater, FL, you should schedule a consultation with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible to learn how much your case may be worth.

Act Fast To Save Time and Money

Navigating life after a car accident can be incredibly challenging. From dealing with pain and suffering due to injuries to handling insurance claims, it’s a stressful time. One of the most significant advantages is hiring a car accident lawyer.

You can meet with a skilled attorney to discuss your case, ask questions, and gain insight into your potential compensation—all without incurring any costs until you win or settle your case.

Contact a car accident lawyer in Clearwater, FL, for a free consultation and guidance on your case.

Contact the Pinellas County Car Accident Law Firm Of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers for Help

For more information, please contact the Clearwater and St. Petersburg car accident law firm of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.

We serve Pinellas County and its surrounding areas:

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater
1875 N Belcher Rd. STE 201,
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 796-8282

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Petersburg
2560 1st Ave S,
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 349-1728