--- description: Washington, DC injury attorneys from Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. discuss questions car accident victims should ask their lawyer. title: Questions to Ask Your Lawyer | Car Accident Attorney canonical: https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/car-accident-lawyer-questions/ date_modified: 2026-08-11T15:37:25+00:00 practice_area: car-accident --- - Questions to Ask Your Lawyer | Car Accident Attorney # Car Accident Lawyer Questions Last Updated: August 11, 2026 - Reading Time: 4 minutes Trusted Content ![090424_CSCS_APE30](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/090424_CSCS_APE30-r7ld7n5zxjd9ezimssquc85jvnm28x0iit481i4iwo.jpg) Legally Reviewed by Allan Siegel Updated 4 weeks ago [Home](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/) » [Washington DC Car Accident Lawyer](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/) » Car Accident Lawyer Questions [![Best Law Firms - Regional Tier 1 Badge](https://www.bestlawyers.com/Badges/Metro/35728/17508/15/washington-d-c/O/Detail.png)](https://www.bestlawfirms.com/firms/chaikin-sherman-cammarata-siegel/35728/US) What's On This Page [Case Results](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/case-results/) $18.8 Million - Car Crash $2 Million - Car Crash $1.9 Million - Car Crash $1.37 Million - Car Crash $1.1 Million - Car Crash $1 Million - Car Crash [View All Practice Areas](https://chaikinandsherman.com/practice-areas/) [Testimonials](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/testimonials-hub/) [They were adamant about getting me the best settlement. 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"*" indicates required fields Name* First Last Name* Last Email** Phone*Are you a new client?*Are you a new client? *Yes, I'm a potential new client.No, I'm a current existing client.I'm neitherCase TypeCase TypeMotor Vehicle AccidentSlip & FallAssaultMedical MalpracticeAbuseWork InjuryOtherWere You at Fault?Were You At Fault?NoYesUnknownWhere Did The Incident Occur?Where Did The Incident Occur?Washington, D.C.VirginiaMarylandOtherDid The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?Did The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?YesNoShare Brief Description of the Incident* Send Watch our attorneys explain how they fight for car accident victims across DC, Maryland, and Virginia. With over $1 billion recovered, our team knows how to build a winning case — from investigation through trial. Video Transcript **Speakers:** Ira Sherman, Joseph Cammarata, Stephen Ollar, Allan Siegel **Ira Sherman (00:02):** I would say that Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata and Siegel has a completely different outlook on cases that other people think are garden variety automobile accidents, because to the person who is involved in that accident, that’s not garden variety, that’s altering their life. **Joseph Cammarata (00:21):** First of all, we don’t advertise. People come to us by word of mouth, either from defense lawyers, from insurance companies, from colleagues at the bar. They know that we have decades of experience in the personal injury field. They know that what we bring to bear is a group of lawyers that work and non-lawyers that work as a team to make sure we understand what the nature and the extent of the injury is. We make sure we understand and can express to a third party just what those injuries are, and we work to obtain the most compensation that we can for an individual. **Stephen Ollar (01:04):** What we do a lot of is discovery, not just discovery of the facts of the case, but discovery about insurance. It may be that the individual was operating the vehicle for an employer, and if they were acting with what we call the course and scope of their employment, then there could be potentially additional coverage that would cover a person for those injuries. **Allan Siegel (01:27):** We’ve been handling car accident cases since Don Chaikin founded this firm over 50 years ago. Since we spend a lot of time and we have a lot of those cases, we have developed a level of experience and knowledge that I think is very unique in our field. There aren’t many law firms who can say that they’ve been doing this type of work for over 50 years. **Ira Sherman (01:52):** I care enough to look to determine who this person is and how it affected them, and that takes up a lot of my conversation with our clients. Being the victim of a [car accident](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/) can be overwhelming. If you are [considering hiring](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/should-i-get-a-lawyer/) a car accident lawyer to help you with your [personal injury claim](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/insurance-claim/), asking the right questions is essential in determining whether or not an attorney is right for you. An initial consultation is designed to provide you with an opportunity to discuss the details of your case and help you learn more about a lawyer’s skills, experience, education, strategy, and resources. Make the most of this opportunity by discussing the questions outlined below. A good attorney’s answers should be direct and honest, increasing your confidence in them and your comfort level. A consultation establishes an attorney-client relationship, which means that your discussions are confidential. That does not mean you have to hire a lawyer. But also remember that a consultation is generally based on limited facts, and the lawyer may need to perform a further investigation to give you a conclusive answer. ## Questions About Background and Experience ![Questions to Ask a Car Accident Lawyer, Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C.](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/TSEZcylOGZpo8Icj2XDiygL9HbH4-1T_5Luz6zyiVRTWV_q75Q4OJ7R1FL5w-LGcFQop4JEh6cWHSonzOtxH_ijyYmvnsw7eD7HYMSlodc_AFSu1X5Df5P-Lhzbg047QSq8hULKuqGxY7kOr) Some of the most important and telling aspects of any lawyer include their level of experience, their reputation among their peers, and their history of success in pursuing cases similar to yours. Here are some questions to ask a lawyer relating to background and experience: - How long have you been practicing law regarding car accidents? – Many law firms have lawyers in various areas of law, including criminal law, family law, and real estate law. You want to make sure that the lawyer you plan to hire has specifically practiced law for car accident cases. If the lawyer you’re speaking to practices entertainment law, they won’t have the right experience for your case. - Do you frequently handle cases similar to mine? Ensuring the lawyer you plan to hire has extensive experience in cases similar to yours guarantees their familiarity with your situation. It could indicate how successful they will be in obtaining a settlement for you. - Do you have special experience representing car accident victims with [spinal cord injuries](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/catastrophic-injuries/neck-spine-injuries/), traumatic [brain injuries](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/brain-injuries/), or other conditions that can cause lifelong medical problems? - What bar associations and professional organizations do you belong to? While you can usually guarantee that your lawyer has been to law school and has a law degree, asking them about the associations and organizations they belong to gives you an additional idea of the extent of their experience. - On average, how many car accident injury cases do you get every year? How many cases usually go to trial? Before you retain a lawyer’s services, you want to ensure that they have enough experience obtaining settlements and experience in court. - What are your attorney fees? – Most lawyers work on a [contingency fee basis](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contingency-fees/), which means they won’t receive payment until they obtain a settlement for you. However, the percentage they will take of your settlement varies from firm to firm. ### QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR CASE During your consultation, you should also take the time to thoroughly describe the details of your car accident and related injuries and then ask the attorney for their opinion of your particular case. Some relevant questions to bring up include: - [Do you think I have a case?](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/do-i-have-a-case/) A qualified attorney will be able to evaluate your case during your consultation and tell you whether your claim is valid or not. - [What damages can I potentially recover?](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/what-can-you-sue-for-in-a-car-accident/) – Before you hire legal services, you want to make sure filing a claim is worth the reward you may receive. - What factors will work in our favor, and what could work against us? – The right lawyer for you will be able to assess your legal issue and prepare you for what might occur during the legal process. - Is it likely that my case will go to trial? – This legal question may indicate how long your case will take. These[questions](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/faqs/) should give you a strong foundation from which you can decide whether or not you trust the car accident lawyer and want to hire them. You can also ask the attorney for references from previous clients, which a good lawyer will be happy to provide. ![personal injury victim asking questions about his case](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/iStock-1394629075-1024x683.jpg) ## Why You Should Hire Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. The Washington, D.C. car accident lawyers with Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. have a proven track record of success in helping clients obtain the maximum compensation possible for injuries they have suffered due to the negligence of others. Our firm has consistently demonstrated we have the expertise needed to help our clients see that justice is served. We have the resources needed to conduct thorough investigations of all the circumstances contributing to a motor vehicle accident, gathering the evidence to establish negligence and other types of liability. Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. has obtained more than $500 million in verdicts and settlements, and our attorneys have more than a century of combined legal experience. Two of our partners are certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. Our firm has also earned the highest AV® Rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, the most respected attorney-ranking service organization in the United States. Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. attorneys work passionately on behalf of our clients to help them secure fair [compensation](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/common-myths-about-compensation-and-car-accidents/) – there is no type of case that is too complex for us to litigate. ### Request a Free Consultation Today ![lawyer with client going over legal stuff](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/v1Peg7YFTt4385RSpHdQkl6nlvHKisVlXeuyfleDA02_vqkRIW7tg6bGnNUIMDDcCu83hc9GvUB7N4XrdXNIuM_MM1yatoV_ptmqIw53Z4xuoTWZbUlaM7m8A5wVzxIRTPdvy-y9wEmEsvwU) If you are looking for the highest level of representation available for your car accident case, turn to [Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C.](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/) Our law firm has helped clients recover more than $500 million in compensation, and we have more than 100 years of combined experience. All of our partners are recognized by Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers®, and our firm includes three past presidents of the Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington, D.C. We work to help our clients obtain fair settlement offers to compensate them for the injuries they’ve suffered, but our attorneys are extremely well-equipped to go to trial if needed. We** invite you to find out what makes us exceptional by scheduling a **[free case evaluation](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contact-us/)** today. You can also read **[testimonials](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/testimonials/)** from clients we have helped throughout the years.** [Watch Our Video Testimonials](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/testimonials-hub/) ![Main CSCS Video - Thumb 1](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1.png) Get free advice about the compensation you deserve. At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., our car accident attorneys fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve, handling every aspect of your case to protect your rights. Trust us to stand by you and advocate aggressively on your behalf. [Free Case Evaluation](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contact-us/) Visit Us in Person 1232 17th St NW Washington, DC 20036 The car accident lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. serve the entire Washington, D.C. metro area, including [Virginia](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/virginia/) ([Northern Virginia car accident cases](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/northern-virginia/), [Arlington](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/auto-accident-attorneys-in-arlington-va/), [Fairfax County auto accident claims](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/fairfax/), [Woodbridge](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/woodbridge-va/), [Manassas](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/manassas-va/), and [Alexandria](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/alexandria/)) and Maryland ([Bethesda](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/bethesda/), [Hyattsville](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/hyattsville/), [Rockville](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/rockville/), [Lau Top 10 Mistakes Made After an Accident Review these common auto accident mistakes to protect your rights. READ OUR E-BOOK](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/laurel/) Meet Our Team [Learn More About Us](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/about-us/) Ira Sherman Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and New York With over four decades of courtroom experience, **Ira Sherman** is a powerhouse trial lawyer who has won justice for countless victims of serious injury, discrimination, and medical malpractice. Known for his relentless advocacy, compassion, and proven results, he’s the attorney clients trust when everything is on the line. [Ira Sherman's Bio](https://chaikinandsherman.com/attorney-profiles/ira-sherman/) Joseph Cammarata Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia A dual board-certified civil trial attorney, **Joseph Cammarata** is nationally recognized for his fierce advocacy, landmark legal victories, and relentless pursuit of justice for victims of serious injury, wrongful death, sexual assault, and civil rights violations. With wins against powerful opponents—including a historic U.S. Supreme Court case securing equal access to justice—he’s the attorney clients trust when they need skill, strength, and results that matter. [Joe Cammarata's Bio](https://chaikinandsherman.com/attorney-profiles/joseph-cammarata/) Allan M. Siegel​ Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Allan M. Siegel** is a board-certified trial attorney and partner at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., known for securing justice in serious personal injury, brain injury, and wrongful death cases. Recognized as one of Washington’s *Top 100 Super Lawyers®* and a *Best Lawyer®* in America, he combines strategic precision, courtroom skill, and relentless advocacy to win full and fair compensation for his clients. [Allan Siegel's Bio](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/attorney-profiles/allan-m-siegel) Stephen Ollar Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Stephen Ollar** is an award-winning trial attorney and U.S. Army veteran dedicated to holding negligent individuals and corporations accountable. Recognized as a *Super Lawyers Rising Star* from 2020–2025, he’s known for his tenacity, precision, and unwavering pursuit of justice in personal injury, auto accident, and medical malpractice cases. [Stephen Ollar's Bio](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/attorney-profiles/stephen-ollar/) ## Related Articles [Read More Blog Articles](/blog/) ### [Why Some Insurance Companies Take Longer to Settle After a Car Accident in Washington, DC](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/why-some-car-insurance-companies-take-longer-to-settle/) ### [Washington, DC Tint Laws](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/washington-dc-tint-laws/) ### [Why Insurance Companies Lowball Car Accident Settlements in Washington, DC](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/lowball-car-accident-settlements/) ### [Economic VS Non-Economic Damages In Washington, DC Car Accident Cases](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/economic-vs-non-economic-damages/) ### [How Speeding Affects Liability In a Washington, DC Car Accident Case](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/excessive-speed/how-speeding-affects-liability/) ### [Car Accident Lawyer Arlington, VA](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/arlington/) ### [Should You Talk To the Other Person’s Insurance Company?](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/other-drivers-insurance/) ### [100 Deadliest Days of Summer](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/100-deadliest-days/) ### [How To Deal With Insurance Adjusters](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident/insurance-adjusters/) Auto Law ### [Can an Auto Insurer Refuse to Pay Your Car Accident Claim? A DC, Maryland & Virginia Guide](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2026/08/insurance-claim-denied/) By Allan M. Siegel, Partner — Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. Can your auto [Read More »](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2026/08/insurance-claim-denied/) 08/21/2026 Brain Injury ### [Liability and Umbrella Insurance Protects You and Your Family](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/12/liability-and-umbrella-insurance-protects-you-and-your-family/) As we enter a new year, it is the perfect opportunity to take stock of [Read More »](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/12/liability-and-umbrella-insurance-protects-you-and-your-family/) 12/16/2021 Car Accidents ### [The Courts Have Reopened and the Doors are Wider Than Ever](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/the-courts-have-reopened-and-the-doors-are-wider-than-ever/) For months, the coronavirus pandemic practically shut down the courts in the District of Columbia, [Read More »](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/the-courts-have-reopened-and-the-doors-are-wider-than-ever/) 08/25/2021 Car Accidents ### [Law Firm Receives Super Lawyers Awards for 11th Consecutive Year](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/law-firm-receives-super-lawyers-awards-for-11th-consecutive-year/) The 2021 Washington, DC Super Lawyers® annual list of “Top Lawyers” was recently featured in [Read More »](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/law-firm-receives-super-lawyers-awards-for-11th-consecutive-year/) 08/25/2021 ```json-ld {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"LegalService","@id":"https://chaikinandsherman.com/#firm","name":"Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel Personal Injury Lawyers","url":"https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/","telephone":"+1-202-659-8600","email":"publicrelations@dc-law.net","logo":"https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/new-logoBaskerville@2x.png","image":"https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/cscs-firm-photo.jpg","description":"Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel is a Washington D.C. personal injury law firm with decades of experience representing accident victims throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia.","foundingDate":"1969","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"1232 17th St NW","addressLocality":"Washington","addressRegion":"DC","postalCode":"20036","addressCountry":"US"},"founder":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Joseph Chaikin","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"1232 17th St NW","addressLocality":"Washington","addressRegion":"DC","postalCode":"20036","addressCountry":"US"}},{"@type":"Person","name":"Ira Sherman","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"1232 17th St NW","addressLocality":"Washington","addressRegion":"DC","postalCode":"20036","addressCountry":"US"}}],"employee":[{"@type":"Attorney","name":"Allan M. 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