When choosing a personal injury lawyer after an auto accident, the decision should not be taken lightly. This decision could mean a plus or minus of thousands of dollars in your bank account come settlement time. It may also mean the difference between sleepless nights with one of those “did I screw up this decision” to sleeping like a baby knowing you are in good hands.

Here are things to consider when making the decision about an accident attorney.

1. Do not look for the biggest billboard you can find and make your decision based off of that criteria. This attorney may not be the one best suited for you, and also may be too busy to handle your case “hands on” enough. You may be pushed off completely on to a junior associate who does not have the experience or free mindedness to do what is right for you. He or she may have scripted mandates from the firm telling what to do, and that script may not be in your best interest.

2. Ask for referrals from friends or family who have had claims. What better way to find out about actual experiences and outcomes?

3. What is the attorney’s track record at recovering damages and settlement monies? You want a proven attorney track record with someone who is not afraid of standing up for your rights and going to court if needed.

4. Professional organizations. Which ones does the prospective attorney belong to?

5. Does the lawyer have any upfront fees? Most do not, however some actually do. With the attorney working on a contingency places “skin in the game” for him or her as it makes the outcome super important to the fee.

6. What’s the experience of the attorney in personal injury cases and how much of the practice is devoted to it? If it is basically a hobby and a small part of the practice, probably best to keep looking.

7. Attorney’s philosophy. If the philosophy appears to be sign up as many as absolutely possible and then push off on the junior associate, keep looking. If the philosophy is to work closely with you and then the law firm takes a “hit” at the end of the case to get you a better settlement, then finish the meeting!

8. Stay away from firms relying too heavily on contract runners. You should sit down face to face with the potential attorney to discuss your specific case and sign the contract. This might be the most important meeting you have with your lawyer. There are higher volume firms that use contract runners and refer to them as investigators. You could meet with one, but you should truly meet with the lawyer prior to signing a contract.

9. Ask the attorney if he or she will reduce their fees.

10. If your case includes a property damage claim (vehicle) ask your attorney if they will handle this for free, assist with getting a rental vehicle, and take care of dealing with the insurance company that is paying for the issues with your vehicle.