Protecting Your Legal Rights and Pursuing Compensation with Kellum Law Firm, P.C.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Jackson, Mississippi, hiring an attorney is one of the most critical steps you can take to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation. Mississippi law allows accident victims to seek financial recovery for their medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses, but the legal process can be complex. Retaining a skilled attorney to represent you can help reduce stress and ensure you are positioned to secure the best possible outcome.
Here’s what you need to know about retaining an attorney for your car accident claim in Jackson and how Kellum Law Firm, P.C., can guide you through this process.
Why You Should Retain an Attorney After a Car Accident
Car accident claims often involve intricate legal and insurance-related matters, which can be difficult for someone unfamiliar with Mississippi law to navigate. There are several reasons why retaining an attorney can be beneficial:
- Legal Knowledge: Mississippi has specific laws that affect how accident claims are handled. An attorney can apply these laws to your case, making sure every aspect is considered.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize or deny your claim. An experienced attorney knows how to counter these tactics and ensure you are treated fairly.
- Building a Strong Case: Gathering evidence, working with experts, and presenting your claim in the best possible light can greatly impact the compensation you receive. Your attorney will have the resources to conduct thorough investigations and present persuasive arguments.
- Statute of Limitations: In Mississippi, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is three years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline means losing the right to pursue compensation, making it crucial to act quickly.
- Peace of Mind: With an attorney handling the legal complexities, you can focus on your recovery while knowing your case is in capable hands.
Steps to Retain a Car Accident Attorney in Jackson, Mississippi
- Research Potential Attorneys
It’s essential to find an attorney who has experience handling car accident cases in Jackson and throughout Mississippi. When researching attorneys, look for those who have a strong track record of success in securing compensation for their clients. You’ll want someone who understands local laws, knows the courts, and is familiar with the tactics insurance companies use to try to avoid paying claims.
At Kellum Law Firm, P.C., our team has decades of experience representing clients injured in car accidents. We know how to build a case that maximizes your compensation, and we are ready to fight for your rights.
- Schedule a Free Consultation
Many personal injury attorneys, including those at Kellum Law Firm, P.C., offer free initial consultations. This consultation gives you the opportunity to discuss your case, ask questions, and get a sense of whether the attorney is a good fit for you.
During this meeting, you should provide as much information about the accident as possible, including police reports, medical records, and any communication with the insurance company. The attorney will assess the strength of your case and advise you on the next steps.
- Ask About the Attorney’s Fee Structure
Most car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you won’t pay any attorney’s fees upfront. Instead, the attorney’s fees will come out of the settlement or verdict you receive. At Kellum Law Firm, P.C., we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t owe us any money unless we recover compensation for you.
Make sure you fully understand how the attorney’s fees are calculated and what costs, such as court fees or expert witness fees, may be deducted from your final settlement.
- Understand the Attorney-Client Agreement
Once you’ve chosen an attorney, you’ll need to sign a representation agreement, also known as an attorney-client contract. This agreement outlines the attorney’s duties, how they will be compensated, and what you can expect throughout the process. Before signing, make sure you fully understand the terms and ask any questions you may have.
- Let Your Attorney Handle the Insurance Companies
After retaining an attorney, your lawyer will take over all communications with the insurance companies involved. This includes negotiating settlements, gathering evidence, and representing your interests in court, if necessary. Your attorney will guide you through the entire process and keep you updated on any developments in your case.
What to Expect During Your Car Accident Case
Once you’ve retained an attorney, the legal process will typically follow these steps:
- Investigation: Your attorney will investigate the accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, photos of the scene, and medical records.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies: The goal is often to reach a fair settlement with the insurance company. Your attorney will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring that all your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, are fully considered.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit. This involves taking your case to court, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome. Your attorney will represent you throughout the trial and present the strongest case possible.
- Resolution: Whether through settlement or trial, your attorney will work to secure the best possible outcome for your claim.
MississipPi Car Accident Claim FAQs
What should I bring to my initial consultation with a car accident attorney?
It’s helpful to bring as much documentation as possible to your consultation. This may include the police report, medical records, bills related to your treatment, photographs from the accident scene, insurance information, and any correspondence you’ve had with insurance companies. These documents will help the attorney evaluate your case and provide you with informed advice.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident attorney in Mississippi?
Most car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they recover compensation for you. The typical contingency fee is a percentage of the settlement or court award. At Kellum Law Firm, P.C., we work on a contingency fee basis, so there are no upfront costs to worry about.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is three years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file a lawsuit within this period, you may lose the right to seek compensation. It’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the legal timeframe.
What compensation can I recover in a car accident claim?
You may be able to recover compensation for various types of damages, including medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, the circumstances of the accident, and the strength of your case. Your attorney will help calculate the full extent of your damages to ensure you receive fair compensation.
What happens if the insurance company denies my claim?
If the insurance company denies your claim, your attorney can help you challenge the denial. This may involve providing additional evidence, negotiating with the insurance company, or filing a lawsuit to seek compensation. An experienced attorney like those at Kellum Law Firm, P.C., can help you understand your options and fight for your rights.
Do I need an attorney if the other driver was clearly at fault?
Even if the other driver was clearly at fault, it’s still important to retain an attorney. Insurance companies may attempt to reduce the amount they pay by disputing the extent of your injuries or damages. An attorney will ensure that you receive fair compensation and that your rights are protected throughout the process.
What should I avoid after a car accident?
After a car accident, avoid making statements to the insurance company without first consulting an attorney. Anything you say could be used against you in your claim. Additionally, avoid settling too quickly. Insurance companies often offer low settlements initially, and an attorney can help negotiate a fairer amount.
Call Car Accident Attorney Bill Kellum For Your Free Consultation and Case Review!
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Jackson, Mississippi, or anywhere in the state, it’s crucial to have legal representation on your side. At Kellum Law Firm, P.C., we are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our Jackson office at (601) 969-2709 or our Port Gibson office at (601) 590-9000 to understand your legal rights and discuss your options today.
