Been in a motorcycle crash?
Figuring out who you should hire for a lawyer can be stressful if you are dealing with injuries and the insurance company.
The thing is … Choosing the wrong lawyer can cost you thousands of dollars in compensation.
The good news is:
Selecting a good motorcycle accident lawyer is not hard if you do it the right way. You need to know the exact things to look for when hiring a lawyer.
In this guide, I am going to reveal the most important factors that separate good motorcycle lawyers from the bad ones. You will know what to look for, so you can make a smart decision that will protect your rights and get you the highest settlement.
Let’s get started!
Here’s the breakdown:
- Why Experience Matters More Than You Think
- What to Ask During Your First Consultation
- Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Understanding Fee Structures
- How to Verify Credentials
The Importance of a Specialized Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accident cases are unique from normal car accidents.
Here’s why:
Motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than the occupants of passenger vehicles. These claims are also more complicated than other types of accidents and require specific experience and knowledge.
A Louisiana motorcycle accident lawyer who has handled bike cases before knows how to work with insurance companies that always try to place blame on riders for the accident. They also understand the dynamics of motorcycle accidents, common road hazards for bikes, and the kinds of injuries riders typically suffer.
Without the right legal representation, you will usually be lowballed and given less money than you deserve.
Insurance adjusters know most victims do not understand the full value of their claims. A specialized lawyer will even the playing field.
Experience Is Critical
Do you want to know the most significant mistake people make when they are looking for a lawyer?
It’s not doing any research on the attorney’s experience with motorcycle cases.
Experience is critical, and here’s what really matters:
- Years of experience with motorcycle accidents: You want a lawyer with at least 5+ years of experience with motorcycle accident claims specifically and not just general personal injury work.
- Settlement history: You need to know their average settlement and their success rate. You can expect the average motorcycle accident settlement to be somewhere between $66,000 and $185,000 depending on the severity of the injuries and the case facts.
- Trial experience: Most cases settle before going to court, but if you need to go to trial, you need an attorney with experience and the will to go to court.
Do not be shy to ask direct questions about experience. Any good lawyer will be happy to tell you what they have done.
The First Consultation – What You Must Ask
The first consultation is often very telling about whether you have found the right lawyer or not.
Most motorcycle accident lawyers will offer you a free consultation. Use this opportunity to ask all of the following questions:
Question #1: How Many Motorcycle Cases Have You Handled?
Do not settle for vague answers. You want someone who has handled dozens or even hundreds of motorcycle accident cases.
Question #2: What Is Your Success Rate?
The success rate will tell you a lot about a lawyer’s experience and effectiveness. A good success rate should be no less than 80% in motorcycle cases.
Question #3: Will You Handle My Case Personally?
Some lawyers will give your case to one of their junior attorneys. You want the actual lawyer you meet with to work on your case.
Question #4: How Do You Communicate with Clients?
How often will the lawyer contact you? Will it be via email or over the phone? These are essential communication questions that need to be answered.
Signs and Red Flags to Look Out For
Not every lawyer has your best interest in mind.
Here are some things to be on the lookout for:
- Guaranteed results: No ethical motorcycle accident lawyer will ever guarantee results on a settlement amount.
- Pressure to sign immediately: A lawyer should never pressure you to sign immediately. If they do, they are more interested in collecting their fee than helping you.
- Unclear fee structure: The lawyer should tell you exactly how much they charge for their services. No hidden fees.
- Bad reviews: Check Google reviews, state bar complaints, and other legal directories. Multiple complaints are a red flag.
If something is not right, trust your gut instinct.
Fee Structures and Important Fees
Most motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis.
Here’s how it works:
You do not have to pay the lawyer anything upfront. The attorney will only get paid if he or she wins your case.
The fee is usually based on a percentage of your final settlement. This can vary from 33% to 40% of the total settlement amount.
Here are some things to be clear on:
- Case expenses (medical records, expert witnesses, court fees) are typically not part of the contingency fee.
- If you lose the case, the lawyer does not get paid. You should not owe them a dime.
- The percentage can change if the case goes to court.
Always get the fee agreement in writing. This protects both you and the attorney.
Checking and Verifying Credentials
Credentials are important to check when you are looking for a motorcycle accident lawyer.
Check for the following:
- State bar license: Make sure the lawyer has a license to practice law in the state of Louisiana. Check with the state bar association to ensure no disciplinary actions against them.
- Professional memberships: This can include national organizations such as the American Association for Justice or State Trial Lawyers Association.
- Awards and recognition: Peer recognition and awards from industry groups are a good sign of a reputable attorney.
Verify credentials through the state bar association’s website. It takes about five minutes.
Local Knowledge Is Important
Louisiana is a state with many unique laws that can influence a motorcycle accident claim.
The local motorcycle accident lawyer will have knowledge of:
- Traffic laws and regulations in Louisiana
- Local court procedures and the judges
- Common accident locations and road hazards
- The tactics used by insurance companies in the region
All these things can make a significant difference to your case.
The Final Verdict
Choosing the right motorcycle accident lawyer is not about finding the first attorney that comes up on Google.
It is about finding someone who has:
- Specialized motorcycle accident experience
- A proven record of successful settlements
- Good communication and transparency
- Reasonable and understandable fees
Take the time to meet with several lawyers before making a decision. Most offer free consultations.
The right lawyer could mean the difference between a fair settlement and taking home far less than what you deserve.
Time to Wrap It All Up
Choosing the best motorcycle accident lawyer is easier if you do your due diligence.
Focus on experience, transparency, and communication. Verify the lawyer’s credentials, understand the fee structure, and trust your gut feelings during the consultation process.
Always remember… In 64% of motorcycle crashes involving two vehicles, the other driver is at fault. You deserve a strong legal advocate on your side who will fight for your rights and get you the best compensation.
You do not deserve less than what you are owed. The best lawyer is out there – you just need to know how to look for them.
