After you’ve been seriously injured in a car accident in Toronto, one of the most important decisions you will make is picking the right personal injury lawyer to represent you in a legal claim. An experienced Toronto-based car accident lawyer can mean the difference between a fair settlement, helping you get back on your feet physically and financially, and leaving you walking away with far less than you deserve. It’s important to note, though, that not all injury lawyers are equal, as some may not have the experience, resources, or time commitment to handle your case correctly.
Choosing the wrong personal injury lawyer can cost you significantly. They can destroy any chance you have for proper compensation and justice for you and your family. Selecting the right car accident injury lawyer requires thought and research, as there are many Toronto personal injury lawyers. To help you make an informed decision, here are five red flags to watch for when hiring a Toronto car accident lawyer.
1. The Lawyer is Vague About Their Experience with Car Accident Cases
Personal injury law encompasses various types of injuries, with motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, dog bites, medical malpractice, and product liability just a few of the types of cases covered. Car accident claims are unique and have complexities. A personal injury lawyer who is experienced in car accident claims can navigate the case correctly, giving it the proper diligence it deserves. A lawyer who focuses primarily on other areas, like real estate, employment, or corporate law, will not have the depth of experience needed to navigate Ontario’s auto insurance system, the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS), and the threshold for pain and suffering claims. Beyond that, they won’t have the relationships with insurance companies that may help you get a better, more expedited settlement.
An experienced car accident lawyer local to Toronto will be better equipped to handle your case, as their understanding of what is necessary for success is far greater than that of a “jack of all trades” lawyer.
If a lawyer can’t clearly explain their track record with car accident cases, how many they’ve handled, or the types of results they’ve achieved, that’s a concern. Ask them for examples of similar cases they’ve handled, referrals of past clients, and check their online reviews on verified sites like Google Reviews. As of 2023, the City of Toronto had approximately 3.1 million registered vehicles. And in a 2023 Ontario Ministry of Transportation report, there were 26,993 motor vehicle collisions, with the majority happening in and around Toronto. With car accident claims being so common, a reputable Toronto lawyer should be able to speak confidently about their experience in this specific area of law.
2. The Personal Injury Lawyer Makes Unrealistic Promises About Your Case
With any personal injury claim, nobody can be 100% certain of the outcome. That is why you need to be wary of any lawyer who guarantees a win or throws out a settlement number before sitting down with you and understanding the full details of your case. Every car accident is unique, and various factors need to be considered to truly understand your claim. Liability, the severity of your injuries, your recovery time, and the insurance coverage involved can all affect the outcome.
A reputable car accident lawyer will take proper steps to understand all the specifics of your accident. They will take time to listen to the details of your accident, gather the facts, review medical reports, assess liability, and consult experts to provide a realistic outlook of your claim. The Law Society of Ontario’s (LSO) Rules of Professional Conduct explicitly prohibit lawyers from making guarantees about outcomes, which serves as a further reminder that these promises are a serious red flag.
3. The Personal Injury Lawyer Doesn’t Have Time for Your Questions
After a serious accident, the stress is overwhelming. You’re likely dealing with medical treatments, financial stress, and uncertainty about your future. Beyond that, you must deal with family struggles and the day-to-day craziness of everyday life. The stress for you and your family is omnipresent, and you most likely have a ton of questions about your legal options. You need a car accident lawyer who will take the time to explain your rights, answer your questions, and keep you informed throughout the process.
If a lawyer and their team of paralegals and clerks seem rushed, dismissive, or too busy to return your calls, that’s a problem. Communication between a client and their legal team is key in personal injury cases, especially when decisions about settlement offers or court proceedings need to be made quickly.
Listen to your gut when you have any hesitations about the lawyer not having time for you. If you have concerns when first speaking with them, it’s unlikely that they will change once they have your signature on a retainer agreement.
4. They Pressure You to Settle Quickly
Insurance companies often attempt to settle car accident claims quickly and for as little as possible. They want to minimize the time and damage and usually look for a quick way out. Sometimes, they’ll make an early offer that might look appealing, especially when you have the pressure of mounting legal bills, but accepting too soon can leave you without the resources you need for ongoing treatment or lost wages.
If your lawyer seems more interested in closing the case quickly than fighting on your behalf for the best financial results, ask why. Are they looking out for your best interests? While not every case should go to trial, an experienced personal injury lawyer should be willing to fight on your behalf, regardless of how long it will take, for proper compensation. Settling prematurely can hold you back from getting the proper compensation you may deserve.
5. They Lack Resources or Support Staff
Car accident cases are tedious, often lasting multiple years, and require ongoing oversight. Medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and investigators are frequently crucial in proving liability and assessing the severity of your injuries. A lawyer who is a sole practitioner or one with minimal support staff may not have the resources to build a strong case. Things may fall through the cracks or not be dealt with promptly.
A reputable Toronto personal injury law firm will have a dedicated team to ensure that all aspects of your file are handled efficiently and effectively. They have an extensive network of relationships with medical professionals and expert witnesses who can strengthen your claim. They have unparalleled experience and resources. They understand how to navigate the legal process without concern and won’t sacrifice effectiveness or efficiency. You’ll be in capable hands with experts who have years of experience dealing with similar cases.
Choose Your Toronto Car Accident Lawyer Carefully
Hiring a car accident lawyer in Toronto is about more than checking Google for someone with “personal injury” on their website or asking ChatGPT. It’s about finding a personal injury lawyer with experience handling Toronto-based car accident cases – someone with a history of success fighting for individuals who have been seriously injured and getting the compensation and justice they deserve.
If you encounter any of these red flags, look for other options. Choosing the right Toronto car accident lawyer is a huge decision and may determine the success of your claim. You control your destiny and should choose a car accident lawyer that you trust.
At Bergel Magence, we’ve been representing seriously injured car accident victims in Toronto and across Ontario for over 50 years. We understand what is needed to provide the proper support to our clients to help them get the compensation and justice they deserve after being seriously injured in a car accident. We will fight for you and your family, allowing you to focus on rehabilitation solely. Let our family fight for your family.
Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers – Call us at 416-665-2000 or visit bergellaw.com to book your free consultation today.
