Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers | May 14, 2025 | Car Accidents
You may be hesitant to contact a lawyer if you have been injured in a car accident because of concerns about the cost. Medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repair costs after an accident can already feel overwhelming, but the good news is that most Ohio car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This can allow you to work with a car accident lawyer at no upfront cost.
What Is a Contingency Fee?
A contingent fee agreement is a payment arrangement where your lawyer’s fee is contingent on the outcome of your case. If your lawyer recovers compensation for you through a settlement or trial verdict, they receive a percentage. You will not owe any attorney fees if they cannot recover compensation on your behalf. This arrangement aligns a lawyer’s financial interest with yours, so they only succeed when you do.
Typical Contingency Fee Percentages in Ohio
Contingency fees for car accident lawyers in Ohio generally range from 33 to 40 percent of your final recovery. The exact percentage often depends on factors such as:
- The complexity of your case
- Whether your case settles or goes to trial
- Your level of experience
- The total amount recovered on your behalf
For example, if you receive a $90,000 settlement and your lawyer charges a 33 percent contingency fee, they will receive $29,700, and you will keep the remaining $60,300. However, there may be certain deductions for additional expenses.
Potential Additional Case-Related Expenses
The contingency fee covers your lawyer’s time and legal services, but additional expenses may be associated with pursuing your case. These could include:
- Court filing fees
- Costs for obtaining medical records or police reports
- Fees for copying and postage
- Costs related to depositions or trial exhibits
- Fees for expert witnesses or accident reconstruction specialists
Some car accident lawyers in Huron do cover these expenses upfront and deduct them from your settlement or trial award. Others may expect you to reimburse them regardless of the outcome. An injury lawyer will discuss how case expenses are handled during a free consultation and specify the terms in a written fee agreement.
Advantages of the Contingency Fee Model in Ohio
There are several reasons why the contingency fee system benefits car accident victims:
- No upfront costs: You do not need to pay anything out of pocket to hire an Ohio car accident lawyer. This makes working with an experienced lawyer accessible regardless of your financial situation.
- Motivated representation: Your car accident lawyer will be directly incentivized to maximize your recovery since their payment depends on your success.
- Risk reduction: You typically do not owe any attorney’s fees. If your case is not successful, you will reduce your financial risk.
Working with a car accident lawyer can make all the difference between recovering fair compensation and walking away with less than you deserve.
Are There Other Ways a Car Accident Lawyer Might Charge Legal Fees?
Contingency fees are the most common arrangement for car accident cases, but they are not the only option. Some lawyers may be open to alternative billing methods if a contingency fee does not fit your situation. Depending on the law firm, you may be able to negotiate a different payment structure, such as:
- Flat fees for specific legal services
- Hourly billing, where you pay for the time the lawyer spends on your case
- Installment plans, allowing you to spread payments over time
- Monthly retainer arrangements for ongoing support
Many personal injury lawyers in Huron will work with you to provide access to the legal help you need.
Injured in a Car Accident? An Ohio Car Accident Lawyer May Help on a Contingency Fee
Hiring a car accident lawyer in Ohio does not have to be a financial burden. Thanks to contingency fee arrangements, you may be able to work with an experienced car accident lawyer without paying out of pocket. Instead, your lawyer will only get paid if you win, and they have every reason to fight for the maximum compensation possible.
If you have been injured in a crash, do not let worries about legal fees keep you from seeking justice. Schedule a free consultation with an experienced Ohio car accident lawyer and learn what a car accident lawyer can do for you.
Contact a Huron Car Accident Lawyer at Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, contact the Huron car accident law firm of Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation.
We have five convenient locations in Ohio: Sandusky, Mansfield, Port Clinton, Vermilion, and Norwalk.
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Sandusky
502 W Washington St,
Sandusky, OH 44870
Kademenos, Wisehart, Hines, Dolyk and Wright Co. LPA – Mansfield
6 W 3rd St Suite 200,
Mansfield, OH 44902
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Port Clinton
132 Madison St,
Port Clinton, OH 43452
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Vermilion
1513 State Rd,
Vermilion, OH 44089
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Norwalk
13 Whittlesey Ave,
Norwalk, OH 44857