Search for a limousine accident lawyer after your crash?
Finding the right limo accident lawyer can mean the difference between victory and defeat. The reality is that limo wrecks are a complicated personal injury case. They involve many different parties, specialized laws, and often catastrophic injuries.
The problem is:
Not every injury attorney has the experience and knowledge to take on limo accident cases. You want someone who really understands commercial motor vehicle law and all the nuances.
You will learn:
- Why Limousine Accidents Are Different
- Qualities to Look For
- Questions to Ask
- Red Flags to Watch Out For
Why Limousine Accidents Are Different
Limousine collisions are not the same as car accidents.
Limo accident cases are inherently more complex than the average crash. This is because there are multiple defendants that could be liable. The driver, the limo company, the manufacturer, and even the repair shops could all share fault.For example, in some complex injury claims, victims might also be involved in other types of motor vehicle collisions where specialized legal insight is critical. If you were hurt in a crash involving a motorcycle and need guidance on liability and compensation in the Charleston area, see Charleston Motorcycle Accident Lawyer.
And here’s the kicker…
Limousines are subject to far fewer federal safety regulations. For example, many airbag and seatbelt standards don’t currently apply to limos. This gap in the law leaves limo passengers without the same protections as occupants of standard vehicles. For this reason alone, you want to make sure you have a qualified limo accident attorney on your side. They understand the difference and how to approach these cases to get the best results for victims.
Here’s another example:
The 2018 limousine crash in Schoharie County, New York killed 20 people. This was the deadliest transportation accident in the United States in almost a decade. After the crash, investigators found the limo had failed inspections, and the brakes were defective.
See what we mean? In the Schoharie limo crash, driver error was just one possible cause of the crash. The attorneys had to prove who was responsible for the defective brakes. It could have been a manufacturing issue or a repair shop lying about brake replacements.
The result was one of the largest wrongful death lawsuits in New York history. It took months of litigation to untangle who was at fault.
Cases like this show you need an attorney who can investigate:
- Maintenance and service records
- Driver’s license and employment history
- The company’s safety policies and compliance
- Insurance policy limits
Qualities to Look For
Ok, now that you understand why you need a limo accident lawyer. Here are some traits to look for in the right one:
Experience with commercial motor vehicle cases. This should be a requirement for any attorney you consider. Don’t even bother interviewing someone who primarily does slip-and-fall cases.
You want a lawyer who is experienced with Respondeat Superior. This legal doctrine holds employers responsible for the negligent acts of their employees.
Track record of results. You need someone who has litigated cases similar to yours. Ask for examples of past limo accident cases they’ve won. How did they resolve, trial or settlement?
Resources to fully investigate. Limo accident cases often take a lot of investigation. Your attorney needs resources to:
- Hire an accident reconstructionist to re-create the crash.
- Obtain maintenance records from the company and shops.
- Depose witnesses and other parties for testimony.
- Work with medical professionals on the injuries.
Good communication skills. You should never be afraid to ask questions. Your lawyer should be able to explain things to you in plain language without the legalese.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
Before you sign a retainer, ask these important questions first.
How many limousine or commercial vehicle cases have you handled?
You can tell right away from the answer if they have experience. Don’t let them weasel out of a direct question.
What is your fee structure?
Most injury attorneys work on contingency. Meaning, they only get paid if you win or settle. Just confirm the percentage and any additional costs.
Who will actually work on my case?
In some firms, your case is handed off to a junior associate. Find out who your main point of contact will be and who will appear in court if necessary.
What is your opinion of my case?
A good attorney will give you an honest assessment. Don’t let anyone promise you a multi-million dollar settlement before they even review the facts.
How long do you anticipate this case will take?
Limousine accident cases can take months, even years to resolve. You need to know what you’re getting into.
Understanding Liability in Limo Accidents
Something you might not know…
Limousine accident liability extends far beyond the driver. In the Schoharie crash mentioned above, the shop that allegedly falsified brake repairs was also sued by many of the victims’ families. One settlement reached $2.25 million.
Your attorney should investigate all potential defendants, including:
- The limousine company owner or operator
- The driver
- Maintenance and repair companies
- Vehicle manufacturers
- Parts suppliers
The more potential defendants, the more complicated the case. But it also means there are more sources of compensation.
Red Flags to Avoid
Not all attorneys are the same. Watch out for these warning signs.
Guaranteeing specific outcomes. No reputable attorney can promise you’ll win your case. Nor can they predict what a jury will award at trial.
Pressuring you to sign right away. Do not feel rushed into signing a retainer agreement with an attorney. You should have time to make a decision.
Poor communication. If they don’t return calls during the consultation period, how bad will communication be during your case?
Lack of trial experience. Most cases settle before trial. But you need someone who will go to court if necessary. Insurance companies know which lawyers will actually take cases to trial.
Unclear fee arrangements. Everything should be in writing, no surprises.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
Time is of the essence in limousine accident cases.
Evidence is lost or destroyed. Witnesses’ memories fade. Maintenance records can go missing. The longer you wait, the more critical evidence gets degraded.
Each state has statutes of limitations for personal injury claims. If you wait too long and the deadline passes, you lose the ability to recover any compensation.
Don’t delay, contact an attorney immediately.
Wrapping It All Up
Choosing the right limo accident lawyer is a critical decision. Limousine wrecks are complex, with multiple defendants, regulatory gaps, and often severe injuries.
So, to summarize:
- Search for experience with commercial vehicle cases
- Ask the right questions before signing anything
- Understand how liability is determined in limo wrecks
- Watch for red flags in your search
- Act quickly to preserve important evidence
The right attorney can be the difference between a favorable outcome and a frustrating process. Take the time, do the research, and find someone who truly understands the unique challenges of limousine accident cases.
Your case deserves a champion who will fight for the compensation you deserve.
