Should I Get a Lawyer for a Motorcycle Accident?

The freedom and exhilaration of riding a motorcycle come with inherent risks. Even the most cautious riders can find themselves involved in a serious accident due to the negligence of other motorists, hazardous road conditions, or defective equipment.

In the blink of an eye, a motorcyclist’s life can forever change in a devastating crash that results in severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and the inability to work or enjoy life as they once did.

Following a motorcycle accident, victims and their families are often left feeling overwhelmed, confused, and unsure of where to turn for help. The physical, emotional, and financial toll of a serious crash can be immense, and the road to recovery can be long and challenging.

One of the most critical decisions a motorcycle accident victim can make is whether to hire a lawyer to represent their interests and fight for the compensation they deserve. The guidance and advocacy of an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of a case.

Here are some of the many reasons why you need legal representation after a motorcycle accident.

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The Complexity of Motorcycle Accident Cases

Motorcycle accident cases are often more complex than car accident cases for several reasons:

• Severity of injuries: Motorcycle riders are more vulnerable to severe injuries due to the lack of protection compared to occupants of passenger vehicles.
• Bias against motorcyclists: Insurance companies and juries may have a bias against motorcyclists, assuming they are reckless or at fault for the accident.
• Multiple parties involved: Motorcycle accidents may involve multiple vehicles, making it challenging to determine liability and negotiate with multiple insurance companies.
• Complex laws and regulations: Motorcycle accidents are subject to specific laws and regulations that may vary by state, requiring an understanding of these laws to effectively navigate the legal system.

Given these complexities, you need an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer on your side to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

When to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Hire a motorcycle accident lawyer in cases involving:

• Severe injuries: If you’ve suffered severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation or result in permanent disability, a lawyer can help you recover the compensation needed to cover your current and future expenses.
• Disputed liability: If there is a dispute regarding who was at fault for the accident, a lawyer can gather evidence, consult with experts, and build a strong case to demonstrate the other party’s liability.
• Low settlement offers: If the insurance company offers a low settlement that doesn’t adequately cover your losses, a lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement or take your case to trial if necessary.
• Complex cases: If your case involves multiple parties, complex legal issues, or significant damages, a lawyer can provide the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the legal system effectively.

When in doubt, consult a lawyer who can assess your case and offer recommendations for moving forward.

What to Look for in a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Of course, you can choose from plenty of personal injury lawyers, which can make it difficult for you to decide who to hire.

When choosing a motorcycle accident lawyer, consider these important factors:

• Record of success: Look for a lawyer with extensive experience handling motorcycle accident cases and a track record of success.
• Experience in your practice area: Choose a lawyer who handles personal injury cases and has specific experience with motorcycle accident cases.
• Resources: Ensure that the lawyer has the resources necessary to investigate your case thoroughly, consult with experts, and take your case to trial if needed.
• Communication: Select a lawyer who communicates clearly, keeps you informed throughout the process, and is responsive to your questions and concerns.
• Reputation: Research the lawyer’s reputation by reading reviews and testimonials and checking their standing with local bar associations.

The Role of a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

How can a lawyer help with your motorcycle accident claim?

Your lawyer will navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.

Some of the key responsibilities of a motorcycle accident lawyer include:

• Investigating the accident: Your lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and interview witnesses to build a strong case on your behalf.
• Identifying liable parties: In some cases, multiple parties may be liable for your injuries, such as the other driver, a vehicle manufacturer, or a government entity responsible for road maintenance. Your lawyer will identify all liable parties and pursue compensation from each.
• Calculating damages: Your lawyer will calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future costs, to ensure that you receive fair compensation.
• Negotiating with insurance companies: Insurance companies often minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to secure a fair settlement.
• Representing you in court: If the other side refuses a fair settlement, your lawyer will represent you in court, present evidence, and argue your case before a judge and jury.

Damages Available in a Motorcycle Accident Case

Your compensation after a motorcycle accident depends on the damages you suffered. In a motorcycle accident case, several types of damages may compensate you for your losses. These damages divide into two main categories: economic damages and non-economic damages.

Here’s a closer look at each type:

Economic Damages

Economic damages compensate you for your financial losses from the accident. These may include:

• Medical expenses: This includes the cost of emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and any other medical expenses related to your injuries.
• Future medical costs: If your injuries require ongoing treatment or will result in future medical expenses, you may recover compensation for these anticipated costs.
• Lost wages: If your injuries prevented you from working, you may recover the wages or income you’ve lost as a result of the accident.
• Lost earning capacity: If your injuries have diminished your ability to earn a living in the future, you may recover compensation for the reduction in your earning capacity.
• Property damage: If the accident damaged your motorcycle or other personal property, you may recover the cost of repairs or replacement.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate you for the intangible losses you suffered in the accident. These may include:

• Pain and suffering: This includes compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you experienced because of your injuries.
• Emotional distress: If the accident has caused you to suffer from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other emotional or psychological issues, you may recover compensation.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries prevented you from participating in activities you once enjoyed or have diminished your quality of life, you may recover damages for this loss.
• Loss of consortium: If your injuries damaged your relationship with your spouse or family, you may recover compensation for this loss.

Factors Affecting the Value of Your Claim

The value of your motorcycle accident claim will depend on:

• The severity of your injuries
• The extent of your financial losses
• The strength of the evidence supporting your claim
• The skill and experience of your motorcycle accident lawyer
• The insurance coverage available

An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can assess the value of your claim and fight for the full compensation you deserve. By thoroughly investigating your case, gathering evidence, and negotiating with the insurance company, your lawyer can maximize your recovery and obtain the resources you need to move forward after a devastating accident.

Should I Accept the First Offer from the Insurance Company Before Talking with a Lawyer?

No, you should not accept the first offer from the insurance company without first consulting a motorcycle accident lawyer.

Here are several reasons why:

• Lowball offers: Insurance companies often make initial offers for much less than the actual value of your claim. They want to settle the case quickly and for as little money as possible.
• Incomplete assessment of damages: The first offer from the insurance company may not take into account the full extent of your damages, including future medical expenses, lost earning capacity, pain and suffering, and other non-economic losses.
• Lack of legal knowledge: Without the guidance of an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer, you may not be aware of the true value of your claim or the legal strategies available to maximize your compensation.
• Waiving your rights: Accepting an offer from the insurance company may require you to sign a release that waives your right to pursue further compensation, even if your injuries turn out to cost more severe than initially thought.
• Pressure tactics: Insurance adjusters may use pressure tactics to convince you to accept a low offer, such as suggesting that you caused the accident or that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.

Remember, insurance companies primarily want to protect their own profits, not pay fair compensation for your losses. By working with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer, you can level the playing field and maximize your chances of securing a favorable outcome for your case.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer from Rothenberg Law Firm LLP Today

After a motorcycle accident, hire a lawyer to protect your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny complex motorcycle accident claims altogether.

An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can investigate your case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.

By working with a skilled lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while your legal team fights for the compensation you deserve.

The legal team at the Rothenberg Law Firm has over five decades of experience fighting for the rights of personal injury victims. We have won and collected billions of dollars for our clients. The Rothenberg Law Firm is not just any personal injury law firm- we are a firm with a proven track record of success. Contact New York city personal injury lawyers at the Rothenberg Law Firm LLP today at (800) 624-8888 or through our online form for a free consultation to discuss your case and legal options with a member of our legal team.