After a car crash or serious injury, your choice of legal representation can shape your recovery, both physically and financially.
If you’re recovering from an accident in Sacramento or receiving care at UC Davis Medical Center, asking the right questions to a personal injury lawyer in California is the first step to protecting your rights. Not all personal injury attorneys are the same, and the wrong fit could cost you time, money, and peace of mind.
Below are 10 essential questions and nuanced answers to guide your decision and ensure you get the support you deserve.
1. Do you have experience handling cases like mine under California law?
Not all personal injury lawyers in California have deep experience in specific case types. Depending on your situation, you want someone who regularly handles car accidents, truck accidents, rideshare accidents, or brain injuries. Ask for examples of past cases and outcomes.
Tip: If your accident happened near busy streets in Sacramento, mention that. Local familiarity matters during investigations and jury selection.
2. How do you calculate compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering?
An experienced lawyer should clearly explain how they estimate economic damages (e.g., medical bills, lost wages) and non-economic damages (e.g., emotional distress, pain and suffering). They may build this estimate using your medical records, expert opinions, and wage history.
Be cautious if the lawyer avoids specifics or overpromises huge settlements without reviewing your case.
3. What’s your approach when dealing with insurance companies?
After an accident, insurance companies often offer quick, low settlements. Ask how the attorney protects clients from bad faith tactics and whether they handle communication directly with your insurance provider.
Look for: A firm that acts as your shield, allowing you to focus on medical treatment and recovery while they negotiate.
4. Do you offer free consultations, and what should I prepare?
Yes, most personal injury attorneys—including our qualified Sacramento auto accident attorney—offer free consultations to help you understand your legal options before committing to anything.
To make the most of your consultation, prepare the following:
- Your traffic accident report
- Photos or videos from the scene
- Medical records and bills
- Your auto insurance policy
Tip: Download our FREE Personal Injury Accident Checklist to stay organized and make your consultation easier. It’s a useful resource whether you’ve already experienced an accident or just want to be ready.
5. Are you prepared to take my case to trial if needed?
Many personal injury cases settle, but some go to court. Ask if the attorney is a seasoned trial lawyer who isn’t afraid to argue in front of a jury.
Why it matters: Lawyers who prepare every case for trial tend to negotiate stronger settlements.
6. How will you prove liability, especially in complex cases like hit-and-run or drunk driving?
In complex cases like driving under the influence, hit-and-run accidents, or crashes involving vehicle defects, proving fault can be challenging. Your lawyer should explain how they collect evidence—such as traffic cams, police reports, or expert reconstructions—to build your case.
At Farahi Law Firm, we carefully gather evidence like surveillance footage, police reports, and expert analysis to establish who was at fault. Our team works quickly to protect your rights and build a strong case from the start.
7. What’s the statute of limitations for personal injury cases in California?
Under California law, most victims have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury claim. However, exceptions apply, such as cases involving government entities or delayed discovery of injuries.
If your injury happened on a public bus, in a city-owned building, or involved any government agency in Sacramento, you have only 6 months to file a claim under California’s government claims process.
8. Do you handle cases involving wrongful death or severe injuries?
Not every firm is equipped to handle catastrophic injuries or wrongful death cases. If your loved one passed away or suffered permanent damage, such as brain injuries, ask if the firm has experience with those complexities, including seeking punitive damages.
9. What’s your fee structure, and are there any upfront costs?
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they don’t get paid unless you win. Still, ask about other possible costs—filing fees, expert witnesses, etc.—and how those are handled.
10. Do you represent clients throughout Sacramento, including South Sacramento, or near Arden-Arcade?
Your attorney should know the area well if your accident happened on busy corridors like Stockton Boulevard or I-5. Ask if they have handled cases near your location and are available for in-person meetings.
Remember: A local Sacramento auto accident attorney can often get things done faster, especially when dealing with nearby courts or law enforcement.
Speak with a Legal Advocate Today
Choosing the right personal injury lawyer in California isn’t just about flashy ads or quick promises. It’s about finding someone who listens, understands your case, and knows how to win. Whether you’re dealing with t-bone accidents, rideshare accidents, or long-term injuries, asking the right questions helps you regain control of your life.
We offer free consultations to help you understand your legal options. Our team in Sacramento is here to fight for your medical expenses, lost income, and future well-being.
📞 Call us now for your free case review.
