Getting hurt in an accident can turn your world upside down. One moment you’re driving home, walking through a store, or just going about your day—and the next, you’re facing medical bills, lost wages, and a whole lot of questions.
One of the most important questions people face after an accident is whether they need a lawyer, and if so, how to choose the right one. With so many law firms out there, it can feel overwhelming. The truth is, the lawyer you hire matters. A good attorney can guide you through the process, fight for fair compensation, and give you peace of mind while you focus on healing.
Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a personal injury lawyer to represent you.
Make Sure They Handle Personal Injury Cases
Not every lawyer takes the same kinds of cases. Some focus on criminal law, business law, or family matters. Personal injury cases are a different area of law with their own set of rules, strategies, and challenges.
When you’re looking for a lawyer, make sure they regularly handle personal injury claims—and ideally, cases like yours. That could include:
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle crashes
- Slip and fall accidents
- Wrongful death claims
- Workplace accidents
- Medical malpractice
If your lawyer has handled cases like yours before, they’ll know what to look for, what mistakes to avoid, and how to effectively move things forward.
Look at Their Results
Experience is important, but results speak for themselves. Don’t be afraid to ask about an attorney’s past cases. Questions like these can help:
- Have you handled many cases like mine?
- What kinds of settlements or verdicts have you achieved?
- Do you have trial experience?
You’re not just looking for a lawyer with years in the practice—you want someone who has successfully recovered compensation for clients. A proven track record shows they know how to negotiate with insurers and, if necessary, fight in court.
Stick With Someone Local
Every state has its own laws that affect personal injury claims. For example, Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule. That means if you’re partly at fault for your accident, your compensation could be reduced—or denied if you’re more than 49 percent responsible.
Hiring a lawyer who practices in Utah means they’ll understand how these rules work and how to protect your claim. Local attorneys are also familiar with nearby courts, judges, and even the tactics insurance companies use in this area. That local knowledge can give you an advantage.
Pay Attention to Communication
When you’re recovering from an injury, the last thing you need is a lawyer who doesn’t return your calls or leaves you wondering what’s happening with your case. Good communication can make the entire process less stressful. During your first meeting, ask yourself:
- Did they really listen to my story?
- Did they answer my questions in a way I could understand?
- Did they explain what comes next?
You should feel like you’re talking to someone who’s on your side—not someone rushing through a checklist.
Understand Their Fees
Most personal injury lawyers in Utah don’t charge by the hour. Instead, they work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you do. Their fee will be a percentage of the money they recover for you.
This setup makes it possible to hire an experienced lawyer without worrying about upfront costs. A trustworthy lawyer will be upfront about fees so there are no surprises later.
Look at Their Reputation
One of the easiest ways to get a feel for a lawyer is to check what past clients have said. Reviews on Google or legal directories can give you insight into how a lawyer treats the people they represent.
You can also ask if the lawyer has received recognition from professional organizations, such as being named to Super Lawyers or the National Trial Lawyers Top 100. Awards don’t tell the whole story, but show that other lawyers respect their work.
Trial Experience Matters
The majority of personal injury cases settle without going to trial. But sometimes insurance companies won’t budge, and taking the case to court is the only way to get justice.
That’s why it’s important to hire a lawyer who has actual courtroom experience. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to trial and which ones settle quickly. Having a trial-ready attorney on your side can motivate the insurer to make a fair offer.
Watch Out for Red Flags
Just as there are things to look for, there are also warning signs to avoid. Be cautious of lawyers who:
- Promise you a specific result right away
- Pressure you to sign a contract immediately
- Won’t clearly explain their experience or fees
- Seem too busy to give you attention
A good lawyer will be honest about your case and give you space to make the right decision.
Why This Choice Matters
Accidents can take a toll in every way—physically, financially, and emotionally. The lawyer you choose will help determine not just the outcome of your case, but how smooth or stressful the process is.
With the right attorney, you’ll have someone who can gather evidence, deal with the insurance companies, and advocate for you so you can focus on getting better.
Contact Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation With an Ogden Personal Injury Lawyer
At Parker & McConkie, we’ve helped countless Utah families rebuild their lives after serious accidents. We know how difficult your recovery can be, and we’re here to shoulder the legal burden for you.
If you or a loved one has been injured, don’t wait to get answers. Contact Parker & McConkie today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Ogden personal injury lawyer.
We have 5 convenient locations in Utah, including Midvale, Salt Lake City, Ogden & Provo, UT. Clients can also visit our offices in Idaho Falls, ID & Rock Springs, WY.
We proudly serve Weber County, Utah County, Salt Lake County in Utah, Bonneville County in Idaho, Sweetwater County in Wyoming , and its surrounding areas:
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Salt Lake City Office
466 S. 500 E., Suite 100,
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
(801) 851-1202
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Midvale Office
7090 Union Park Ave, #160,
Midvale, UT 84047
(801) 845-0440
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Ogden Office
2510 S Washington Blvd, Suite 160,
Ogden, UT 84401
(385) 402-8187
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Provo Office
37 E Center St, Suite 300,
Provo, UT 84606
(801) 876-4107
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Rock Springs Office
531 N Front St,
Rock Springs, WY 82901
(307) 205-7400
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Idaho Falls Office
2235 East 25th St. Suite #280,
Idaho Falls, ID 83404
(208) 418-0633
Hours: 24/7
