Riding a motorcycle gives you an unmatched sense of freedom. However, motorcycle accidents can cause severe injuries. If you’ve been in a motorcycle crash, you need an aggressive lawyer in your corner. Keep reading to learn how to find the best motorcycle accident lawyer for your case.
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The most important factor is choosing a lawyer with extensive experience handling motorcycle injury claims. Ask:
- How long have you practiced motorcycle accident law?
- How many motorcycle cases have you taken to trial?
- What is your success rate?
Look for at least 5+ years focused solely on motorcycle wrecks. An experienced lawyer knows how to maximize compensation.
Verify Specialized Knowledge
In addition to general experience, your lawyer needs expertise in motorcycle accident law specifically. Motorcycle cases involve unique laws and defenses.
Ask candidates:
- Are you up to date on motorcycle accident legislation and case law?
- Do you stay informed on new motorcycle safety tech and standards?
- What training and memberships do you have related to motorcycle wrecks?
Choose a lawyer who regularly handles bike cases and is a member of motorcycle attorney organizations.
Examine Their Case Results
Don’t just take a lawyer’s word that they excel in motorcycle claims. Verify their results, such as:
- Biggest settlement or verdict obtained for a motorcyclist
- Average payouts for different injury types
- Settlement amounts compared to insurance offers
- Client testimonials and reviews
A proven track record of big recoveries indicates ability to maximize your compensation.
Ask About Their Resources
Successfully litigating motorcycle injury lawsuits requires substantial resources. Find out:
- How large is your law firm?
- What is the experience level of your legal team?
- Do you use accident reconstructionist and other experts?
Look for an established firm with ample support staff and access to experts.
Gauge Compatibility
Most importantly, choose a motorcycle accident lawyer you feel comfortable with. Ask yourself:
- Did they listen attentively to my story?
- Were they respectful and empathetic?
- Do they seem genuinely driven to help me?
Go with someone you connect with and who you can trust to fight passionately on your behalf.
Interview Several Candidates
Don’t just go with the first lawyer you talk to. Set up free consultations with 4-5 firms to compare credentials and find the best fit. Come prepared with questions.
Understand Fee Structures
The right lawyer for your motorcycle case will represent you on a contingency fee basis, meaning legal fees come out of any settlement or award. Typical fees range from 33% to 40%.
Always verify costs upfront so there are no surprises. Reputable lawyers won’t ask for any money until you receive your compensation.
Check Out Online Reviews
Do a Google search for lawyers you’re considering to see ratings and reviews. This helps gauge their reputation and expertise.
Focus on verified reviews on reputable sites like Avow and Yelp. Beware of fake reviews.
Ask About Associated Costs
Factor in all potential costs:
- Expert witness fees
- Investigation/reconstruction fees
- Court reporter/transcript fees
- Legal research fees
A good lawyer will cover these costs upfront and recover them from any settlement. Just confirm who’s responsible.
Don’t Delay
The statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle injury lawsuit is typically 2-3 years. However, evidence can disappear quickly.
Contact qualified motorcycle accident attorneys right away to preserve your rights. Delaying could jeopardize your claim.
Trust Your Intuition
If a lawyer seems slick or gives off bad vibes, move on. The right attorney will be knowledgeable, supportive and eager to help. Follow your gut.
Choosing the best motorcycle accident lawyer takes research. But finding the right match boosts your chance of a bigger recovery. So interview lawyers wisely. The results are worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
What qualifications should I look for when hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer?
Look for extensive experience litigating motorcycle cases specifically, specialized knowledge of motorcycle accident laws and defenses, a proven track record of big recoveries for clients, ample resources to aggressively pursue your claim, and shared compatibility and trust.
How can I research a motorcycle accident lawyer’s background and credentials?
Search online for client reviews and ratings. Check the lawyer’s website for case results, years in practice, certifications, and sample settlements/verdicts. Call your state bar association to see if they have any disciplinary history.
What questions should I ask during a consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer?
Key questions include: How long have you focused on motorcycle wrecks? What are your biggest case results? What is your success rate at trial? What resources does your firm have? What is your fee structure? What associated costs could I incur? How will you keep me informed? How quickly will you start investigating my case?
What red flags should I watch out for when choosing a lawyer?
Avoid lawyers who won’t provide information on past case results or have mostly settled cases. Beware if they ask for money upfront or guarantee a big payout. Also be wary of aggressive sales tactics or lawyers who don’t carefully evaluate your case specifics.
How can I determine the best lawyer for my particular motorcycle accident case?
Schedule free consultations with several qualified lawyers to compare credentials and who you feel most comfortable with. Ask lots of questions to gauge their experience with cases similar to yours. Research their case results. Go with the lawyer you trust most to fight passionately on your behalf.
How soon after my motorcycle accident should I hire a lawyer?
You only have a few years to file a motorcycle injury claim due to statutes of limitations. So consult with lawyers right away to preserve your rights, start gathering evidence, and send a strong message you won’t settle for pennies on the dollar.
Final Words
Suffering catastrophic injuries in a motorcycle crash can completely change your life. Don’t gamble with your future by retaining an inexperienced lawyer. Do your homework to find an aggressive motorcycle accident attorney with the skills and track record to maximize your injury claim value. Ask smart questions during consultations. Research credentials and case results. Trust your gut instinct too. Taking the time upfront to choose the best lawyer for your case pays off with a bigger recovery down the road. With top-notch legal representation fighting for you, justice and fair compensation are within reach.
