Do your research before you hire an attorney for anything, but in particular for a car accident claim. There are all sorts of attorneys in the market for those claims. Some have very little, if any, experience. Some intend to take your case and turn it as quickly as possible, maybe without regard for what you really need, and certainly without regard for the full extent of your damages and full compensation. Do your research. Meet with an attorney you trust, who you've researched. Talk to clients who have been represented by that attorney in the past. Once you've met with that lawyer, understand how the process will work and what they intend to do with your case.