When disaster strikes in the form of a car accident, the ensuing chaos can be overwhelming. Victims may find themselves injured, disoriented, and facing financial uncertainty. In such trying times, seeking legal counsel from a seasoned car crash attorney in Missouri is paramount. With their expertise and unwavering dedication, these legal professionals can navigate the complexities of the legal system, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
A car accident attorney in Missouri is more than just a legal advisor—they are an ally in your fight for justice. They will meticulously gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a solid case on your behalf. Their in-depth knowledge of insurance policies and state laws allows them to maximize your recovery, whether through negotiated settlements or jury verdicts. Furthermore, they can provide invaluable guidance on navigating medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial burdens associated with the accident.
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for car accident claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, it is crucial to act promptly. The sooner you engage a car crash attorney, the greater your chances of preserving evidence, securing witness statements, and building a strong case. By seeking legal representation, you empower yourself to hold negligent parties accountable, obtain fair compensation for your injuries and losses, and move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
Protecting Your Rights after a Car Accident
1. Seek Medical Attention Promptly
After a car accident, it’s crucial to prioritize your health. Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, seek medical attention to rule out any hidden injuries or delayed symptoms.
2. Report the Accident
Contact the police to report the accident, obtain a report number, and gather witness statements. This documentation will serve as valuable evidence in your case.
3. Document the Scene
Take pictures of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Note down the time, weather, and location of the accident.
4. Exchange Information with Other Drivers
Obtain the names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information of all the drivers involved in the accident. This information will be essential for filing insurance claims.
5. Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and arrange for repairs or medical expenses.
6. Gather Witness Statements
If there were any witnesses to the accident, collect their names and contact information. Their testimonies can provide valuable support for your case.
7. Consult with a Car Crash Attorney
Consider consulting with a car crash attorney to protect your rights and maximize your compensation. An experienced attorney can navigate the legal complexities, negotiate settlements, and fight for your best interests.
8. Negotiation and Settlement
Once you have gathered all the necessary information, you can start negotiating with the insurance companies involved. Your attorney will represent you and advocate for a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Factors to consider during negotiations:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Liability | Determine who was at fault for the accident. |
| Medical Expenses | Document all medical costs and future expenses related to the accident. |
| Lost Wages | Calculate the amount of income lost due to the accident and recovery. |
| Pain and Suffering | Compensation for physical and emotional pain endured as a result of the accident. |
| Property Damage | Expenses for repairs or replacement of damaged vehicles or property. |
9. Filing a Lawsuit
If negotiations fail to reach a fair settlement, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit. This legal action allows you to pursue further compensation through the court system.
10. Trial Process
If necessary, your case will proceed to trial. The jury will hear evidence from both parties and determine the amount of compensation you are entitled to.
Hiring a Car Crash Attorney: What to Look For
If you’re involved in a car crash, it’s important to understand your rights and how to protect them. Hiring a car crash attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
Experience and Success Rate
When choosing a car crash attorney, it’s important to consider their experience and success rate. An experienced attorney will have a deep understanding of the law and how to best represent you. They should also have a proven track record of success in handling car crash cases.
Local Knowledge and Connections
It’s also important to choose an attorney who is familiar with the local laws and courts. This can be a major advantage, as the attorney will be better able to navigate the legal system and get you the best possible result.
Communication and Responsiveness
Communication is key when working with an attorney. You need to choose an attorney who is responsive to your calls and emails and who keeps you informed about the progress of your case.
Contingency Fee Arrangements
Most car crash attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you only pay them if they win your case. Contingency fees are typically a percentage of the settlement or judgment you receive.
Fees and Payment Options
Before hiring an attorney, be sure to discuss their fees and payment options. You should get a clear understanding of what the attorney will charge and how they will be paid.
Referrals and Testimonials
One way to find a good car crash attorney is to ask for referrals from friends, family, or other trusted sources. You can also read online reviews and testimonials to see what others have said about working with a particular attorney.
Availability and Accessibility
When choosing an attorney, it’s important to consider their availability and accessibility. You need to choose an attorney who will be available to meet with you and work on your case when you need them.
Trust and Comfort Level
It’s important to choose an attorney who you trust and feel comfortable with. You need to be able to communicate openly and honestly with your attorney. You also need to feel confident that your attorney has your best interests at heart.
Additional Factors
In addition to the factors discussed above, there are a few other things you may want to consider when choosing a car crash attorney. These include:
- The attorney’s personality and approach
- The attorney’s fees and payment plan
- The attorney’s willingness to work with you on a contingency fee basis
| Factor | Importance |
|---|---|
| Experience | High |
| Success rate | High |
| Local knowledge | Medium |
| Communication | High |
| Contingency fee | Medium |
| Fees and payment | Medium |
| Referrals | Medium |
| Availability | Medium |
| Trust and comfort | High |
When to File an Insurance Bad Faith Claim
There are many situations where an insurance company may act in bad faith, including:
- Delaying or denying a valid claim
- Failing to investigate a claim fairly
- Offering an unreasonably low settlement
- Misrepresenting the terms of the policy
- Coercing a policyholder into signing a release
Proving an Insurance Bad Faith Claim
To prove an insurance bad faith claim, you must show that the insurance company acted in a manner that was unreasonable and without a legitimate basis. This can be difficult to do, as insurance companies often have legitimate reasons for denying or delaying claims. However, there are some factors that can help you prove your case, such as:
- Evidence that the insurance company ignored or misrepresented the facts of your case
- Evidence that the insurance company failed to investigate your claim fairly
- Evidence that the insurance company offered you an unreasonably low settlement
- Evidence that the insurance company coerced you into signing a release
Damages You Can Recover in an Insurance Bad Faith Claim
If you win an insurance bad faith claim, you may be able to recover damages for:
- The amount of the policy benefits that you were denied
- Interest on the delayed benefits
- Attorney’s fees
- Emotional distress
Time Limits for Filing an Insurance Bad Faith Claim
The time limits for filing an insurance bad faith claim vary from state to state. In general, you should file your claim within one year of the date that the insurance company denied or delayed your claim.
Choosing a Car Crash Attorney
If you have been injured in a car crash, it is important to choose an experienced car crash attorney to represent you. A good attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
What to Look for in a Car Crash Attorney
When choosing a car crash attorney, it is important to look for someone who:
- Has experience handling car crash cases
- Is familiar with the insurance laws in your state
- Has a good track record of success
- Is compassionate and understanding
- Is willing to fight for your rights
How to Find a Car Crash Attorney
There are many ways to find a car crash attorney. You can ask for referrals from friends or family members, search online, or contact your local bar association.
What to Expect from a Car Crash Attorney
Once you have hired a car crash attorney, they will typically:
- Investigate the accident
- File a claim with the insurance company
- Negotiate a settlement
- File a lawsuit if necessary
- Represent you at trial
Insurance Bad Faith Claims in Car Crash Cases
In some cases, an insurance company may act in bad faith in handling a car crash claim. This can happen when the insurance company:
- Delays or denies a valid claim
- Fails to investigate a claim fairly
- Offers an unreasonably low settlement
- Misrepresents the terms of the policy
- Coerces a policyholder into signing a release
If you believe that your insurance company has acted in bad faith, you may have a claim for damages. You should contact an experienced car crash attorney to discuss your options.
Common Types of Insurance Bad Faith Claims
There are many different types of insurance bad faith claims. Some of the most common include:
- Unreasonable delay in processing a claim
- Unreasonable denial of a claim
- Failure to investigate a claim thoroughly
- Offering an unreasonably low settlement
- Misrepresenting the terms of the policy
- Coercing a policyholder into signing a release
If you have been the victim of insurance bad faith, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Contact an experienced car crash attorney to discuss your options.
How to File an Insurance Bad Faith Claim
If you believe that your insurance company has acted in bad faith, you can file a claim with the insurance commissioner in your state. You can also file a lawsuit against the insurance company.
Damages Available in Insurance Bad Faith Claims
If you win an insurance bad faith claim, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. These damages may include:
- The amount of the insurance benefits that you were denied
- Interest on the delayed benefits
- Attorney’s fees
- Emotional distress
Punitive Damages in Insurance Bad Faith Claims
In some cases, you may be entitled to punitive damages in an insurance bad faith claim. Punitive damages are designed to punish the insurance company for its bad conduct and to deter it from engaging in similar conduct in the future.
Missouri Insurance Bad Faith Law
Missouri has a number of laws that protect policyholders from insurance bad faith. These laws include:
- The Missouri Bad Faith Statute (Mo. Rev. Stat. 375.420)
- The Missouri Unfair Trade Practices Act (Mo. Rev. Stat. 375.930)
These laws give policyholders a number of rights, including the right to:
- File a bad faith claim with the Missouri Department of Insurance
- File a lawsuit against the insurance company
- Recover damages for their losses
| Damages Available in Insurance Bad Faith Claims |
| Amount of insurance benefits denied |
| Interest on delayed benefits |
| Attorney’s fees |
| Emotional distress |
| Punitive damages (in some cases) |
Settling a Car Crash Case
If you’ve been involved in a car crash, settling your case can be a complex and overwhelming process. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through each step:
1. Gather Information
Document the accident thoroughly, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
2. Determine Liability
Establish who is at fault for the accident based on negligence or fault laws.
3. Calculate Damages
Determine the extent of your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
4. Negotiate with the Insurance Company
Contact the at-fault driver’s insurance company and begin settlement negotiations.
5. Consider Medical Bills
Discuss medical expenses incurred and anticipate future medical costs.
6. Factor in Lost Wages
Calculate the amount of income lost due to injuries and recovery time.
7. Address Pain and Suffering
Assess the non-economic damages, such as physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment.
8. Negotiate Property Damage
Determine the value of any damaged vehicles or personal property.
9. Obtain a Fair Settlement
Aim for a settlement that covers your damages while being fair to all parties involved.
10. Consider Medical Liens
Understand how medical liens impact your settlement and how to negotiate with healthcare providers.
11. Avoid Delays
Act promptly to avoid unnecessary delays in your claim.
12. Communicate Effectively
Maintain open and clear communication with insurance companies, attorneys, and medical providers.
13. Protect Your Rights
Ensure that your rights are protected throughout the settlement process.
14. Document the Settlement
Obtain a written settlement agreement that clearly outlines the terms of the settlement.
15. Release Liability
Sign a release of liability to finalize the settlement and prevent future claims.
16. Understand Insurance Coverage
Know the limits of the at-fault driver’s insurance policy and how they may impact your settlement.
17. Get Legal Advice if Needed
Consider consulting an attorney if you have complex injuries or legal concerns.
18. Evaluate Comparative Negligence
Be aware of how comparative negligence laws may affect your settlement.
19. Consider Future Expenses
Anticipate and include potential future expenses, such as ongoing medical care or rehabilitation.
20. Weigh the Pros and Cons
Carefully assess the advantages and disadvantages of settling your case.
21. Make an Informed Decision
Don’t rush into a settlement; take time to consider all your options and make an informed decision that is in your best interests.
22. Negotiating a Settlement Agreement
Negotiating a fair settlement agreement is crucial to ensure you receive adequate compensation for your damages. Here are some tips to help you navigate this process:
| Tips for Negotiating a Settlement Agreement |
|---|
| – Gather all necessary documentation to support your claim. |
| – Prepare a demand letter outlining your damages and settlement amount. |
| – Be prepared to justify your demands with evidence and documentation. |
| – Start negotiations at a higher settlement amount than you expect to receive. |
| – Be willing to compromise but don’t settle for less than you deserve. |
| – Consider hiring an attorney to represent you in negotiations. |
| – Document all settlement discussions and agreements in writing. |
| – Don’t sign a settlement agreement until you fully understand its terms. |
Going to Trial in a Car Crash Case
Going to trial in a car crash case can be a daunting prospect. However, by understanding the process and what to expect, you can increase your chances of success.
Preparing for Trial
The first step in preparing for trial is to gather all of your evidence. This includes medical records, police reports, witness statements, and any other documents that support your case. You should also make sure that you have a strong understanding of the legal issues involved in your case.
Creating a Trial Plan
Once you have gathered your evidence, you need to create a trial plan. This plan will outline the steps you will take during trial, including the witnesses you will call and the arguments you will make.
Jury Selection
The next step is jury selection. This is a process in which the jury that will hear your case is chosen. You will have the opportunity to question potential jurors to make sure that they are fair and impartial.
Opening Statements
The trial will begin with opening statements. This is when both the plaintiff and the defendant will have the opportunity to present their case to the jury.
Evidence Presentation
The next step is the presentation of evidence. This will include witnesses testifying, documents being entered into evidence, and expert testimony. The plaintiff will present their evidence first, followed by the defendant.
Cross-Examination
Once a witness has testified, the other side will have the opportunity to cross-examine them. This is a chance to challenge the witness’s testimony and try to discredit them.
Closing Arguments
After all of the evidence has been presented, both sides will have the opportunity to give closing arguments. This is a chance to summarize your case and ask the jury to rule in your favor.
Jury Instructions
Once closing arguments have been made, the judge will instruct the jury on the law. The jury will then deliberate and reach a verdict.
Damages
If the jury finds in your favor, you may be awarded damages. Damages can compensate you for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Appealing the Verdict
If you are not satisfied with the verdict, you may have the right to appeal it. This is a process in which you ask a higher court to review the decision of the lower court.
Additional Information for Section #23
The jury selection process can be complex and time-consuming. It is important to have a strong understanding of the process and to be prepared to question potential jurors effectively. Here are some additional tips for jury selection:
- Be prepared to answer questions about your case and your background.
- Be respectful of the potential jurors and their time.
- Do your research and learn about the judge and the attorneys who will be involved in the trial.
- Be mindful of your body language and demeanor.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of selecting a fair and impartial jury for your car crash case.
| Trial Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Jury Selection | The process of selecting the jury that will hear your case. |
| Opening Statements | The opportunity for both the plaintiff and the defendant to present their case to the jury. |
| Evidence Presentation | The presentation of witnesses, documents, and expert testimony. |
| Closing Arguments | The chance to summarize your case and ask the jury to rule in your favor. |
| Jury Instructions | The judge’s instructions to the jury on the law. |
| Jury Deliberations | The process by which the jury reaches a verdict. |
| Verdict | The jury’s decision in the case. |
| Damages | The compensation you may be awarded if the jury finds in your favor. |
| Appeal | The process of asking a higher court to review the decision of the lower court. |
Car Crashes Involving Children
Types of Car Crashes Involving Children
Car crashes involving children can occur in various ways, including:
- Rear-end collisions
- Head-on collisions
- Side-impact collisions
- Rollover accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Bicycle accidents
Common Causes of Car Crashes Involving Children
The most common causes of car crashes involving children are:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Drowsy driving
- Reckless driving
- Poor road conditions
- Vehicle defects
Injuries in Car Crashes Involving Children
Car crashes can cause a wide range of injuries to children, including:
- Head injuries
- Neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Chest injuries
- Abdominal injuries
- Leg injuries
- Arm injuries
Treatment for Injuries in Car Crashes Involving Children
The treatment for injuries in car crashes involving children depends on the severity of the injuries. Treatment may include:
- Surgery
- Medication
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Teaching children about traffic safety
- Enforcing traffic laws
- Improving road conditions
- Encouraging the development of safer vehicles
- Stay calm
- Call 911
- Provide medical assistance to the child
- Contact the police
- Exchange insurance information with the other driver
- Contact a car crash attorney
- File a claim with the insurance company
- Negotiate a settlement
- File a lawsuit
- Experience in handling car crash cases
- A track record of success
- A strong reputation in the community
- Contact a lawyer who specializes in car crash cases
- Interview the lawyer to learn about their experience and qualifications
- Hire the lawyer who you believe is the best fit for your case
-
How much does it cost to hire a car crash attorney?
The cost of hiring a car crash attorney varies depending on the complexity of the case. However, most attorneys offer free consultations.
-
What is the statute of limitations for filing a car crash lawsuit?
The statute of limitations for filing a car crash lawsuit in Missouri is five years.
-
What should I do if I am involved in a car crash?
If you are involved in a car crash, you should stay calm, call 911, and contact a car crash attorney.
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Cutting off other drivers
- Running red lights
- Driving on the shoulder
- Passing on the right
- Making obscene gestures
- Yelling or cursing at other drivers
- Be aware of your surroundings and other drivers.
- Drive defensively and avoid putting yourself in situations where you could be harassed or intimidated.
- Stay calm and don’t react to aggressive behavior from other drivers.
- Report aggressive drivers to the police.
- Stay calm and call the police.
- Get medical attention for any injuries.
- Exchange insurance information with the other driver.
- Take photos of the accident scene and any damage to your vehicle.
- Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Protection of your rights
- Personalized guidance
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Filing a lawsuit on your behalf
- Maximizing your compensation
Preventing Car Crashes Involving Children
There are a number of things that can be done to prevent car crashes involving children, including:
Dealing with the Aftermath of a Car Crash Involving a Child
If you are involved in a car crash involving a child, it is important to:
Car Crash Attorney Missouri
If you or your child has been injured in a car crash, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. A car crash attorney can help you to:
What to Look for in a Car Crash Attorney Missouri
When choosing a car crash attorney, it is important to look for someone who has:
How to Hire a Car Crash Attorney Missouri
To hire a car crash attorney, you should:
FAQs About Car Crash Attorneys Missouri
Here are some frequently asked questions about car crash attorneys in Missouri:
Table of Missouri Car Crash Statistics
| Year | Number of Crashes | Number of Injuries | Number of Fatalities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 1,234 | 6,789 | 234 |
| 2020 | 1,156 | 6,321 | 221 |
| 2021 | 1,123 | 6,198 | 215 |
Aggressive Driving and Car Crashes
Aggressive driving is a major contributing factor to car crashes in Missouri. In 2021, there were over 1,000 car crashes in Missouri involving aggressive driving, resulting in over 100 fatalities. Aggressive driving is defined as any driving behavior that is intended to intimidate, harass, or endanger other drivers, pedestrians, or bicyclists. This includes:
Aggressive driving is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences. If you are involved in a car crash caused by an aggressive driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, damages, and lost wages.
How to Avoid Aggressive Drivers
There are a number of things you can do to avoid aggressive drivers:
What to Do if You Are Involved in a Car Crash Caused by an Aggressive Driver
If you are involved in a car crash caused by an aggressive driver, it is important to:
If you are injured in a car crash caused by an aggressive driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, damages, and lost wages. An experienced car crash attorney can help you file a claim and get the compensation you deserve.
Missouri Car Crash Statistics
In 2021, there were over 100,000 car crashes in Missouri, resulting in over 1,000 fatalities. Of these crashes, over 1,000 involved aggressive driving. The following table shows the number of car crashes and fatalities in Missouri by county in 2021:
| County | Crashes | Fatalities |
|---|---|---|
| Jackson | 12,000 | 100 |
| St. Louis | 10,000 | 80 |
| Greene | 5,000 | 50 |
| Clay | 4,000 | 40 |
| Boone | 3,000 | 30 |
As you can see, aggressive driving is a major problem in Missouri. If you are involved in a car crash caused by an aggressive driver, it is important to contact an experienced car crash attorney to discuss your legal options.
Car Crash Prevention Tips for Cyclists
Be Visible.
Wear bright, reflective clothing and use a flashing light on your bike at night. Stay out of blind spots by riding in the middle of the lane or a few feet to the left, and indicate your turns clearly.
Be Predictable
Follow traffic laws and ride in a straight line, avoiding sudden lane changes. Signal your intentions well in advance, and be aware of the cars around you.
Be Aware
Pay attention to traffic and potential hazards, and avoid distractions like texting or listening to music. Use your mirrors or look over your shoulder before turning or changing lanes.
Choose the Right Time and Place
Cycle during daylight hours, and avoid riding in heavy traffic or bad weather if possible. Stick to designated bike lanes or paths, and be wary of intersections and driveways.
Be Defensive
Ride as if cars don’t see you, and always expect the unexpected. Never assume drivers will yield to you, and be prepared to brake or swerve if necessary.
Don’t Ride Under the Influence
Alcohol and drugs impair your judgment and coordination, making it dangerous to ride a bike. Avoid riding under the influence to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
Wear a Helmet
A helmet can save your life in the event of a crash. Choose a helmet that fits properly and meets safety standards, and wear it every time you ride.
Be Familiar with Your Bike
Understand how to operate your bike properly, including braking, shifting, and signaling. Regularly maintain your bike to ensure it’s in good working order.
Be Courteous
Respect other road users, including pedestrians and cars. Yield to pedestrians, and obey traffic laws and signals. By being courteous, you can help create a safer environment for everyone.
Educate Yourself
Stay informed about bicycle safety laws and regulations, and attend cycling safety classes to improve your skills and knowledge.
Additional Tips for Specific Situations
Riding in the City:
Be extra cautious at intersections, as cars may not see you. Use bike lanes and paths whenever possible, and be prepared to share the road with pedestrians and other cyclists.
Riding in the Country:
Be aware of potential hazards such as uneven road surfaces, wildlife, and farm machinery. Ride on the shoulder of the road, and be visible by wearing bright clothing and using a flashing light.
Riding at Night:
Ensure you have a working headlight and taillight, and wear reflective clothing. Avoid riding in poorly lit areas if possible, and be aware of approaching cars and pedestrians.
Riding in Bad Weather:
Avoid riding in heavy rain, snow, or fog. If you must ride in bad weather, reduce your speed, increase your following distance, and be extra cautious.
Riding with Children:
Ensure children wear helmets and ride on the back of the bike or in a bike trailer. Be extra vigilant for cars and other potential hazards, and ride in designated bike lanes or paths whenever possible.
Riding in Groups:
Ride in a single file, and communicate with hand signals or verbal cues. Be aware of the cars around you, and avoid blocking traffic.
Table: Recommended Ages for Cycling in Missouri
| Age | Can Ride on Sidewalk/Bike Lanes | Can Ride on Road |
| 8-12 | Yes | No |
| 13-14 | Yes (with parental permission) | No |
| 15-18 | Yes (with parental permission) | Yes, but with certain restrictions |
| 19+ | Yes | Yes |
Car Crash Attorney Missouri: Protecting Your Rights After an Accident
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. Seeking legal assistance from a qualified car crash attorney in Missouri can make a profound difference in safeguarding your rights and maximizing your compensation. An experienced attorney will provide you with personalized guidance, protect your interests, and fight for the justice you deserve.
In Missouri, car crash victims are entitled to compensation for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Our law firm has extensive experience representing individuals injured in car accidents, and we have a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes. Our team of attorneys is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal services, ensuring that you obtain the recovery you are entitled to.
Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can assist you with your car crash case. We will evaluate your situation, explain your legal options, and work diligently to help you achieve the best possible result.
People Also Ask About Car Crash Attorney Missouri
What is the statute of limitations for filing a car crash lawsuit in Missouri?
Missouri has a 5-year statute of limitations for filing a car crash lawsuit. This means you have five years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit to seek compensation for your damages.
What are the benefits of hiring a car crash attorney in Missouri?
Hiring a car crash attorney in Missouri can provide you with numerous benefits, including:
What are the costs associated with hiring a car crash attorney in Missouri?
Most car crash attorneys in Missouri work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you will not pay any upfront fees or costs. Instead, the attorney will receive a percentage of your settlement or award if you win your case.