Automobile accidents, which occur every 10 seconds somewhere in the United States, are the No. 1 cause of personal injury claims. Personal injury can be anything from a pinched nerve or broken arm to a sprained knee. It can also involve the loss of a limb―or death.

Personal injury is referred to in legal terms as a "tort," and "tort laws" have been written to protect you should you be involved in an automobile accident. If you or your loved ones are harmed in a wreck, it would be wise to contact an attorney specializing in tort law.

Many attorneys offer an initial consultation free, but verify this when you call to make an appointment. Choose a lawyer who specializes in personal injury cases, and ask questions to determine whether this attorney is right for you.

An accident can drain your cash in many unexpected ways. Medical bills, funeral expenses, lost wages, hired help―all of these additional expenses could come out of your own pocket, even if you were not at fault in the accident.

That's where a lawyer can help. Your attorney can be a liaison with the insurance companies, who may not look out for your best interests. They may try to get you to settle for less money than perhaps you should. An attorney will protect your rights and fight for you while you are recovering.

You may be entitled to collect more for damages than the insurance company is willing to pay. An experienced attorney will know who to sue (the insurance company? the other driver, or his employer?) and how.

Questions to Ask the Attorney

Since you're (hopefully) not very experienced with hiring a personal injury lawyer, here are some questions you can ask during your first phone call or initial consulation to get a clearer picture of how the process will work:

• What are your fees and when do I pay them?

• What percentage will you take from the money I am awarded?

• What if I lose my case? How much do I owe you then?

• Will you settle out of court?

• How long do you expect this to take?

• Will I be told of all offers to settle out of court?

• How will you communicate with me the progress of my case? And how often?

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