Did you know motorcycle accidents dropped by 5% nationwide? This statistic is great news; unfortunately, the fatality rates for motorcyclists are still too high.
Motorcyclists are vulnerable to accidents with cars, bicycles, buses, and pedestrians. One accident can throw your job, finances, and long-term health off-track.
If you’re not at fault, you shouldn’t have to pay for another party’s mistake. Insurance companies are supposed to compensate the no-fault party, but what if the settlement isn’t enough?
You may need a motorcycle accident lawyer to fight for a greater settlement, but where do you begin?
Start with this 5-minute guide to discovering and hiring the right attorney for your case.
Motorcycle Accident Lawyer vs. Insurance
Learn everything you need to know about post-accident protocol first. Motorcyclists hire attorneys when insurance settlements fall short, but it doesn’t hurt to contact a lawyer right away.
If the other party is at fault, their insurance company is responsible for covering your injury costs. If insurance adequately covers your needs, you don’t have to hire a lawyer. However, some injuries rear their ugly heads weeks down the line, which may render the initial settlement inadequate.
While insurance companies are supposed to assess and compensate damages accurately, they’re notorious for paying the bare minimum. This process may be sufficient for minor injuries but not severe injuries.
Another issue is recovery. Insurance companies may not factor recovery time into the settlement. Going back to work when you’re not ready can worsen injuries, leading to long-term health issues.
While insurance companies are there to help, don’t expect them to have your back entirely. Motorcycle accident lawyers document every detail, including witness accounts, property damages, injuries, and the scene of the accident.
If you don’t hire a lawyer, you must gather these details yourself. This process is difficult when you’re recovering or working full-time.
Do You Even Have a Case?
Before you spend a few paychecks on a lawyer, step back a bit. Your first step is to figure out if you have a case.
Many lawyers offer free consultations beforehand. At no charge, you can learn more about the logistics and nuances of the law.
As an alternative, you could try free legal services through your college, city, or non-profit. Low-income individuals are at a disadvantage when it comes to legal representation. Explore complimentary legal help first.
It’s okay to seek out several free consultations. It’s a good way to gauge experience, professionalism, and the likelihood of a settlement.
Ultimately, you want to win your case. You need an attorney who will fight for you, not take your money and run.
Listen to Fellow Motorcyclists
You want a lawyer with a demonstrated track record of success. Talk to your fellow motorcyclists about their experiences and preferred law firms.
Always check reviews! Look for a healthy combination of four and five-star ratings. Start with Google reviews and local service comparison websites.
Ride Off into the Sunset
All you want to do is get back on your bike. Follow this guide to find a motorcycle accident lawyer who fights for motorcyclists.
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