Do you want to achieve optimal results following a motorcycle accident?
Your case outcome depends heavily on which lawyer you select. When you survive a crash you handle physical injuries along with bike repairs while facing insurance companies that work to reduce your payout.
Here’s the problem:
The search for a qualified motorcycle accident lawyer becomes difficult because you’re already dealing with multiple overwhelming issues. Select an attorney who specializes in motorcycle cases with a proven track record while showing determination to fight for your deserved compensation.
Selecting the wrong lawyer means you won’t receive fair compensation in your case.
This guide has broken down exactly what to look for in a Washington Motorcycle Accident Attorney and how to choose someone who will maximize your settlement.
Let’s dive in!
Key Insights:
- Why Motorcycle Accident Cases Need Specialized Attorneys
- 5 Critical Qualities to Look for in a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
- Red Flags to Avoid When Choosing Your Attorney
- Questions to Ask During Your Initial Consultation
Why Motorcycle Accident Cases Need Specialized Attorneys
The nature of motorcycle accident cases sets them apart from standard car accident situations. When you have experienced a motorcycle accident you need representation from an attorney who specializes in motorcycle law.
Higher Stakes and More Severe Injuries
The injuries from motorcycle accidents tend to be more severe compared to those from car accidents.
Why? The danger for motorcyclists lies in the minimal protection they have relative to car occupants. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that the chance of death in crashes for motorcyclists stands at 27 times higher than for occupants of passenger vehicles.
The serious nature of these injuries results in increased medical expenses along with extended recovery periods that also lead to greater financial losses from missed work and intensified pain and suffering.
Unique Liability Challenges
The resolution of motorcycle accident cases involves distinct liability issues that do not typically occur in other vehicle accident situations.
Here’s the truth:
Jurors and insurance adjusters commonly show prejudice towards motorcyclists. People frequently think motorcycle riders are reckless or responsible for accidents despite evidence proving the opposite.
A skilled motorcycle accident legal professional will possess the expertise needed to challenge these prejudices while safeguarding your legal interests through evidence presentation.
5 Critical Qualities to Look for in a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accident attorneys vary in their abilities and expertise. Every motorcycle accident attorney should display five fundamental qualities that determine their effectiveness.
Experience with Motorcycle Cases
This is non-negotiable. Your attorney needs expertise in motorcycle accident cases rather than general personal injury law.
Potential attorneys should provide information about their experience with motorcycle accident cases and their track records in motorcycle claims.
Proven Track Record of Success
Talk is cheap. Choose an attorney who has proven their ability to win motorcycle accident cases.
Request information on:
- Settlement amounts for cases similar to yours
- Trial verdicts they’ve won for motorcyclists
- Their average settlement for motorcycle cases
Resources to Take On Insurance Companies
Insurance companies possess substantial financial resources and dedicated legal teams. Your attorney must have adequate resources to effectively challenge your case.
Your lawyer should possess a dedicated support team, access to expert witnesses and financial resources to sustain your case.
Trial Experience
Although the majority of motorcycle accident cases settle outside of court you must choose an attorney who can take your case to trial when required.
Insurance companies maintain records of which attorneys routinely take cases to trial. Insurance companies only present their highest settlements to attorneys who demonstrate a willingness to take cases to trial.
Specialized Knowledge of Injury Valuation
Specialized knowledge is essential to accurately determine the value of injuries from a motorcycle accident.
Your lawyer needs to comprehend both the long-term effects of motorcycle injuries and how to project future financial costs.
Red Flags to Avoid When Choosing Your Attorney
These warning signs might show you’ve chosen the wrong lawyer for your motorcycle accident case.
Guaranteed Results
An ethical attorney will never provide guarantees about the final result or settlement amount of your case. Any lawyer who promises you victory or guarantees you a specific financial settlement amount should be considered a significant warning sign.
An honest lawyer provides a truthful evaluation of both the strong and weak aspects of your case.
Pressure to Sign Immediately
Avoid lawyers who insist you sign a representation agreement immediately during your first meeting.
Selecting a lawyer requires serious thought because it is an important decision.
Unclear Fee Structure
Your potential attorney needs to explain their service fees clearly.
Motorcycle accident lawyers typically work under a contingency fee arrangement where their payment depends on winning your case. The percentage that lawyers charge as their fee can vary greatly from one attorney to another.
No Motorcycle Case Experience
General personal injury experience is not enough. Lawyers without specific experience in motorcycle accidents may lack understanding of the distinct challenges these cases involve.
Questions to Ask During Your Initial Consultation
A majority of attorneys who specialize in motorcycle accidents provide free initial consultations. Utilize this chance to ask these essential questions and ensure you maximize the opportunity.
“Who Will Handle My Case?”
Senior partners handle initial consultations at many firms before passing cases to junior associates or paralegals.
Determine who will serve as your primary contact and confirm if the attorney you meet with will personally manage your case.
“What Challenges Do You See in My Case?”
An effective attorney will show you the possible challenges your case may face instead of only offering what you wish to hear.
Request that they point out any liability concerns and evidence-related obstacles.
“What Is Your Communication Policy?”
Client dissatisfaction often stems from communication issues. Ask your lawyer about their information sharing policy to ensure that you stay updated.
“Have You Taken Motorcycle Cases to Trial?”
Although most cases settle, you need legal representation capable of taking your case to trial if settlement efforts fail.
Insurance companies increase settlement offers when they recognize that your attorney is ready to take your case to court.
How to Compare Fee Structures
It is essential to understand attorney fees before deciding.
Contingency Fee Basics
Motorcycle accident attorneys who operate on a contingency fee basis earn payment only after winning clients’ cases.
The standard arrangement: The lawyer receives a percentage of your settlement but does not charge any fees upfront if you fail to recover any money.
Case Costs vs. Attorney Fees
The distinction between attorney fees and case costs matters because the management of these fees influences your ultimate recovery.
Case costs generally consist of filing fees alongside expert witness fees and medical record retrieval expenses.
Wrapping It All Up
Selecting an appropriate motorcycle accident lawyer stands as one of your crucial decisions following an accident. The attorney you choose will significantly affect your final settlement amount.
The escalating trend of motorcycle accident deaths rising by 4% yearly from 2013 to 2021 and reaching a 33% total increase makes expert legal representation essential.
When you select your attorney make sure to keep these important points in mind:
- Choose a lawyer with specific motorcycle accident experience
- Look for a proven track record of successful cases
- Ensure they have the resources to take on insurance companies
- Verify they have trial experience if settlement negotiations fail
- Understand their fee structure before signing
With this information you can locate a motorcycle accident lawyer who will pursue your rightful compensation so you can concentrate on getting better.
