TOP PERSONAL INJURY FIRM IN LOS ANGELES
A good motorcycle accident attorney can be the difference between getting a fair settlement for your accident and walking away with out-of-pocket expenses. Motorcycle accidents can cause severe damage to both the motorcycle rider and any cars involved in the crash. Whether you were the person who was injured or you’re responsible for the accident, it’s always best to hire an attorney to handle your motorcycle accident claim.
In this extensive guide, we will discuss what to look for in a motorcycle accident attorney. The best motorcycle accident lawyers tend to be personal injury lawyers, but there are several things you’ll want to keep in mind before hiring one. We will also discuss the types of motorcycle accident injuries and how insurance companies view motorcycle accidents. Read on to learn more about motorcycle accident injuries and how a motorcycle accident attorney can help.
The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be traumatic for many people. Motorcycle accidents are never expected, and they may lead to injuries that can completely change your life. Injured victims must juggle their physical recovery while also caring for their mental health and this can be more than enough for most people to handle. Additionally, many victims are unsure about meeting with a personal injury lawyer to discuss the accident, either due to their lack of knowledge about the legal system or their already overwhelming post-accident responsibilities.
Anytime you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you should always get a motorcycle accident lawyer. While you don’t always need to call a lawyer the day after a motorcycle accident, it’s a good idea to do it as soon as possible. If you wait too long to contact a lawyer for a motorcycle accident, you could risk losing your legal right to get money for the losses that you endured because of the accident. Contacting an attorney right away after the accident happens ensures that your rights as the victim will be protected and you will have the best chance at receiving compensation.
Although there is no rush to find a lawyer within hours or even days after a motorcycle accident, keep in mind that an experienced lawyer can help you start the process of filing a claim immediately after. Even if you are not sure that you need a claim or if you don’t think you’re injured enough to call a lawyer, it’s a good idea to do so anyway.
An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help you fight for your right as an injured person, and the sooner you call them, the sooner they can help you get your entitlements. For example, a personal injury lawyer will gather evidence about the motorcycle accident and start to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. They will also prepare for trial if the insurance company doesn’t want to pay you what you deserve.
If you are not familiar with the legal term used to describe the statute of limitations, consider it a timeline in which injured people are eligible to take legal action after an accident. This timeline varies depending on the state you live in and the type of claim you follow. For example, in some states, the statute of limitations allows motorcycle accident victims to take legal action up to four years after the day of the accident. You will need to check with your state to see what the statute of limitations is.
There are very few exceptions or circumstances that will allow you to take legal action after the statute of limitations. Therefore, you’ll want to keep in mind that you need to file a claim or speak to an attorney right away after an accident so that you don’t run into problems with your state’s statute of limitations. Otherwise, you might not be able to pursue compensation for accident-related losses after this time expires. The best way to ensure that you’re eligible to speak to an attorney is to contact one as soon as you get hurt.
Also, keep in mind that if you are injured in an accident, you do not need legal representation to file a claim for damages that occurred during a motorcycle accident. If you started the process within your state’s statute of limitations, you have the right to pursue a motorcycle accident claim and gain compensation for your medical losses.
However, filing a motorcycle accident claim yourself without legal help can be tricky. This is because the legal process is hard to navigate. The best way to make sure that your legal rights are protected and increase your chances of winning a large settlement, then it’s a good idea to speak to an attorney right away and allow them to handle this portion of your motorcycle accident for you.
Some people need to make their physical and mental recovery a priority after a motorcycle accident. It might seem like you don’t have time to call a lawyer, but doing so ensures that the legal part of your crash will be handled while you focus on healing. Additionally, an experienced personal injury lawyer can reduce the stress associated with a motorcycle accident.
Hiring a lawyer right away can help ensure that you see the case settle and that you don’t have to drag it out. Some people wait until they make a full recovery, and while that’s OK sometimes, keep in mind that this might mean that you’ve surpassed your state’s statute of limitations. Hiring a lawyer makes it easier for you to obtain the medical documentation and gather evidence early enough to settle your case.
After you get into an accident, you may want to take advantage of free consultations with several lawyers no matter what your legal plans are. This will help you understand what options you have, even if you do not follow up on them. In some cases, finding a lawyer and filing a claim is a pressing matter. There are certain situations in which you will want to find a motorcycle attorney right away. We’ve outlined some situations in which you will want to call a lawyer right as soon as possible if you have been in a motorcycle accident:
Calling a lawyer is one of the first calls you will want to make immediately following a motorcycle accident if you have suffered severe injuries. This is because the more severe your injuries are, the more expensive your case will be. Additionally, severe injuries take a long time to heal, meaning that you may need compensation to account for this longer than usual recovery time frame. These two factors alone can make the legal process complicated after a motorcycle accident and may require you to hire a lawyer immediately.
When you have more severe injuries, you will likely need to pursue more compensation, which can extend your motorcycle injury case. Some cases do not even begin until after the victims have recovered physically. Therefore, the worse your injuries are, the longer your case takes. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help speed up this process so that you get the money you need to pay for ongoing medical treatments while you are healing. It also takes the stress off you so that you can focus on healing while leaving the legal aspects of your case to your lawyer.
You should call a lawyer immediately after sustaining permanent or life-threatening injuries from a motorcycle accident. If you are not physically able to do this, have a family member or loved one do this on your behalf. This is because life-threatening or permanent injuries will require life-changing circumstances, and you will need to be represented by a legal professional to handle daily medical treatment or other expenses that have arisen due to your motorcycle accident. A lawyer can prove to a court that you have sustained life-changing or permanent injuries so that you get the compensation you need to help support your new way of life.
Remember that no one plans for an accident to happen. It’s your right to get help when you are the victim of a motorcycle accident. A lawyer can help you make ends meet while you are setting up medical treatment for your permanent injuries. They can also help make sure you are compensated and that your family won’t suffer if you suddenly cannot work. Call a lawyer (or have a family member call for you if you are injured and unable to make the call) if you suspect you have permanent injuries after a motorcycle accident.
It’s common to miss a few days of work after you were in a motorcycle crash. Many people use this time to see a doctor, file a police report, or handle motorcycle repairs. However, if your accident caused you to miss more than a few days of work, then you should call a lawyer as soon as possible. A motorcycle accident attorney can help you get compensation for lost wages due to your accident if you had to miss work because of an injury. However, contacting an attorney right away is important because they will be with you every step of the day and can ensure that you will get the most money possible. So, don’t wait to call a personal injury lawyer.
Most of the time, it’s obvious who is responsible for a motorcycle accident, such as when a driver pulls out in front of a biker. However, it’s not always obvious in some cases. If you are unsure who is responsible for a motorcycle accident, then it’s in your best interest to call a lawyer. It’s also a good idea to contact a motorcycle attorney if you think multiple people are responsible or there is shared fault.
An experienced motorcycle attorney can help you determine who caused your accident. They can help you prove when someone else is responsible and that you are not at fault. If you are at fault for a motorcycle accident, then getting an attorney can also be beneficial as they can help guide you through the legal process so that you’re not paying money out of pocket.
Insurance companies do not want to pay any money if they do not have to. They rarely offer a fair settlement for survivors of a motorcycle accident, even if you have been seriously injured. If the insurance company you are dealing with gives you any trouble at all or if they are purposely delaying your claim in hopes of forcing you to settle for less, call a lawyer right away. A lawyer can help ensure that the insurance company does not take advantage of you. Lawyers know the law and they know how insurance companies will try to scam you out of money. Don’t let them.
Even if you feel like you already have a good grasp on legal matters, it may all change once you are involved in an accident and need professional guidance. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help provide you with legal advice that allows you to seek the most compensation for your crash. Also, an attorney can explain how the process of filing a legal claim works. Keep in mind that it’s not always easy to file a motorcycle accident claim. While the process isn’t impossible to do by yourself - and there is no law stating that you have to get a lawyer to file a claim - a motorcycle accident attorney can make the process so much easier!
This is because different accidents may require different legal actions. Your attorney might be able to help you determine whether or not your case is likely to settle in court. No matter what path you choose to take after a motorcycle accident, an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you determine your best action plan. You don’t even need to take the attorney’s advice. However, meeting with one after an accident provides you with options you didn’t have before.
For example, a qualified motorcycle accident attorney can answer questions you have about your claim - and many times, they will do this for free. Keep in mind that there is a reason why lawyers have to spend so many years in school! They have a lot to learn about the law and the legal system in America, and this takes time. Most people do not know how to file a legal claim, collect compensation, or other processes that are involved with a motorcycle accident. It’s very common to have questions about the legal system, and lawyers are there to help you. It’s also best to at least console a professional attorney anytime you have questions instead of looking this information up online yourself, which can be wrong and may lead you down the wrong path.
Here are some other ways in which a motorcycle accident attorney can help you:
1. They will investigate and document your motorcycle accident case.
A motorcycle accident attorney’s job (should you hire one) is to gather the facts and evidence pertaining to your individual crash and use this information to provide the truth. A lawyer can help you gather the paperwork, documentation, and information required to strengthen your case and increase your settlement compensation. Lawyers are trained to take several steps to prove their client’s innocence during a motorcycle crash and ensure proper treatment.
Here is what a lawyer should be able to do for you:
2. They will handle the insurance companies for you.
If you’re in a motorcycle accident and sustained serious injuries, the last thing you’ll want to do is deal with the insurance companies. An insurance adjuster's job is to find ways to avoid paying you, even if you are entitled to compensation. Most people don’t realize that a motorcycle accident doesn’t always mean you will go to court. Some people will receive compensation from the insurance company after a motorcycle accident without entering a claim into the legal system at all. While it’s possible to settle a claim with an insurance company after an accident without a lawyer, it’s not always a good idea.
This is because it can be very hard to negotiate with the insurance company by yourself. You may be able to work with your own insurance company since you are paying for their service, but it can be very challenging to work with someone else’s insurer if they are at fault. The opposing insurance agency will likely try everything to get out of paying you, and this is why having a lawyer is handy. It’s very common for insurance agencies to try to lowball motorcycle accident survivors with settlement offers. They will also drag out your settlement so long that you will take anything they offer you. Your lawyer knows the law and will be able to fight the insurance company so that they offer you a fair settlement in a reasonable amount of time.
3. They will be able to file a claim for you.
If your motorcycle accident requires you to file a claim, then it’s imperative to hire a lawyer. While it’s not required by law to get a lawyer to represent you in court, it’s a very good idea. It’s very likely that your motorcycle accident case may need to go to court if you cannot settle with the insurance agency. If hired, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney will stand by you every step of the way if your case goes to court, which can be a long and confusing process. A good lawyer will be able to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit on your behalf. They will also take care of all legal aspects and speak on your behalf in court, ensuring the best possible outcome.
4. They can represent you in court.
If your motorcycle accident claim doesn’t settle out of court, and the insurance company refuses to pay what your claim is worth, then you might have no other choice but to take it to court. Motorcycle accident attorneys don’t just help you file a claim or lawsuit. They will also represent you in court. If you hire a motorcycle accident lawyer, you will not have to go through the trial process alone. In fact, your attorney will help provide you with the legal direction you need to make the most of your case. Keep in mind that it’s rarely ever a good idea to represent yourself in court. Some experienced legal professionals do, but even then - they may work with a lawyer.
5. They can help ensure that you recover properly.
Think of your motorcycle accident as a long-term investment. The best way to ensure you will have time to heal is to focus on yourself while your lawyer deals with the insurance company and other legal aspects of your claim. It’s hard to recover properly if you are always worried about the legal aspects of your claim or accident. Keep in mind that the word “recovery” does not just refer to physical healing either. It refers to your mental and financial recovery as well. The best way to free up your time so that you can concentrate on the healing process is to hire an attorney. This will allow you to focus your energy on getting better.
Some people think that anyone with a law degree can help you with your motorcycle accident case. However, this is not always true. Attorneys that work in fields other than personal injury cases should not be used for your motorcycle accident claim. This is true even if you hired an attorney before and you enjoyed working with them. Just because they were able to help you last time does not mean that they are a suitable pick for your personal injury case. It’s always best to make sure your motorcycle accident attorney is a personal injury lawyer.
A common mistake that many people make when filing a motorcycle accident claim is that they look for help from an attorney that does not specialize in motorcycle accidents or personal injuries. For example, an attorney who specializes in criminal defense is not always qualified to help you with your personal injury case. This is because these are two separate areas of law, and each lawyer is trained in their respective fields. Hiring a personal injury lawyer for your motorcycle accident claim is the best way to ensure that your attorney will have the skill level needed to provide value to your case.
Keep in mind that due to the complexity of the various legal fields, attorneys have to spend years learning the specific processes, rules, and nuances of their field to master them. Some attorneys that work in fields other than personal injury law may think that they know this area of law, but they will not be able to handle your case with the same expertise as a lawyer who was trained specially in personal injury. Think of it this way - you wouldn’t see an eye doctor for a heart condition. So don’t see anyone other than a personal injury attorney for your motorcycle accident! Doing so might cost you a settlement or you may lose your case if it goes to court.
The other thing you’ll want to remember is that you should look for a motorcycle accident attorney - not a car accident attorney. Just because you’ve found a personal injury lawyer doesn’t mean that they are a jack of all trades. It’s best to find someone with experience in taking motorcycle cases. Some personal injury lawyers have experience in car accidents but not motorcycle crashes, and while this can seem like it doesn’t matter, there are several key differences when it comes to knowing how to handle your case properly. An attorney who is trained in motorcycle accident claims will always be able to help you better than someone who has only worked with car accident victims.
Getting in an accident is scary no matter what type of vehicle or motorcycle you’re operating at the time. Injuries that occur due to an accident on the road can cause you to pause your life while you recover and try to figure out how to pay for medical expenses. Many people assume that a motorcycle crash is handled the same way as a car crash, but this is not always true. Additionally, it’s imperative that you find an attorney who specializes in motorcycle accidents and not car accidents as there is a fundamental difference between these two cases, and hiring the wrong attorney could cost you the case.
Here are some reasons why you need to hire an attorney who specializes in motorcycle accident cases and not just any personal injury lawyer:
1. Motorcycle riders are unfairly judged.
It’s unfortunate that motorcyclists are stereotyped and unfairly judged as being reckless when this is simply not true. In fact, the opposite is usually true as motorcyclists are often safer drivers because they do not have access to phones while riding and are constantly looking out for distracted drivers. However, not all accidents are avoidable, especially when you are on a motorcycle.
Keep in mind that if your case goes to court, you may face jurors who have unfair stereotypes against bikers based on past experiences or stereotypes. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help overcome this unfair judgment by exposing biases toward motorcyclists during jury selection to eliminate jurors that may be biased and prove that you are a responsible driver.
2. Jurors do not have a basic understanding of motorcycles.
Many jurors do not have a basic understanding of motorcycles and how they are driven. They also do not know how riders are supposed to react to situations on the road. This means that if your case goes to court, you’ll need a motorcycle accident attorney who can explain to uninformed jurors the basic rules of riding and what happens on the road. A juror needs to fully understand who is at fault during a motorcycle accident and distinguish between the different degrees of responsibility for injury compensation.
Therefore, it’s important to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer who can explain to the jury the fundamental knowledge of safe motorcycle riding practices. For example, your lawyer can explain that speed creates stability on a motorcycle because the jury may think that speed is a form of reckless driving if they are not familiar with motorcycle practices. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can explain this and other rules of the road to the jury to help prove your case.
3. Motorcyclists suffer from more serious injuries.
Motorcycle accidents tend to lead to more severe injuries for the rider because there is limited protection on a bike. For example, a car has doors and airbags to protect the driver during a collision. Motorcyclists are often exposed to the elements of the road and they have no protection if they get into an accident. In many cases, permanent and serious injuries occur as a result of a motorcycle accident. Therefore, hiring a motorcycle accident attorney who specializes in these types of injuries is crucial to have if you get into a crash and need help.
It’s especially important to hire a motorcycle accident attorney if you suffered from road rash because this is a type of injury that is more common in riders. Road rash can lead to broken bones, bruises, sprains, and many other serious conditions as a result of the rider coming in contact with the road while in an accident. A motorcycle accident attorney can properly calculate the money you will need for treatment from road rash and other injuries.
4. Insurance companies are biased against motorcyclists.
Insurance companies tend to have stereotypes against motorcycle riders, just like jurors do. Many people who have been injured in a motorcycle accident seek the help of a motorcycle accident attorney because they realize that the insurance company is not acting fairly and has unfair assumptions against riders. For example, if you are partially at fault for the accident, the insurance company will try to deny your claim. They will do anything they can to NOT pay you, even if you need medical help, and are entitled to compensation. Some states claim that a motorcycle accident victim is entitled to compensation even if they are partially responsible for the accident.
A motorcycle accident attorney can make sure you are being treated fairly by the insurance company. Attorneys are trained to understand the obstacles that occur when it comes to proving fault in a motorcycle accident, and they have the skills to overcome these challenges. The bottom line is that you should not make the mistake of thinking that a car accident attorney can provide the same value as a motorcycle accident attorney if you are in this type of accident.
There are several qualities you will want to look for in a motorcycle accident attorney. The first thing you’ll want to determine is whether or not the attorney has time for you. This might seem like a given. However, some personal injury lawyers may have a lot of clients at the time and may not be able to communicate with you or give you the time you deserve. For example, if you contact your lawyer, how soon should they contact you back? If your lawyer doesn’t have time for your case, then it doesn’t matter how qualified they are.
You will also want to make sure that the lawyer you hire is the one you will be working with. Some large law firms may have you meet with their most experienced lawyer initially, but then they will have interns and other inexperienced lawyers work on your case. Anytime you meet with a lawyer, especially one from a big law firm, always confirm that the lawyer you want will be the only one working your case and that you won't have a team of lawyers working for you - unless that’s what you prefer!
You may also want to ask your lawyer if they have time to represent you in court if it goes that far. The last thing you want is to work with one lawyer and then have a completely new lawyer for your court hearing. There are lots of motorcycle accident attorneys out there, so don’t be afraid to interview a few before finding one you like. Many of them will offer a free consultation or at least chat with you on the phone. This is a good time to ask a few questions before sitting down to meet with them. You’ll want a lawyer with experience, drive and focus, and proven results.
Here are some things to look for in a lawyer:
Keep in mind that many lawyers offer a free consultation to determine if they are a good fit for your case. It’s a good idea to meet with several attorneys to find the right one for you. Be sure to ask specific questions about how they plan to handle your case and what makes them different or more successful than other lawyers. Also, be sure to ask if they have the time to work with you or if they will need a team of lawyers to handle your case. It’s a good idea to make sure your lawyer is on board if your case does not settle out of court and requires a trial. You should treat any free consultation with a lawyer like a job interview. If they talk down to you or make you feel like your case is not a priority to them, then find a new lawyer who treats you better!
Riding a motorcycle can be a very dangerous way to get around. It doesn’t matter if you are very careful riding and have taken every precaution possible. There are some situations in which an accident is unavoidable; even if you have done everything you could to stay safe. Most motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle. It can be hard for many drivers to see you on a motorcycle simply because they are distracted and are not looking or watching the road.
Additionally, many drivers only seem to pay attention to oncoming cars and not necessarily bikes, making you (as the motorcycle rider) even more of a target. Any time you are involved in a motorcycle crash, you should call a lawyer - even if you did not sustain serious injuries. This is because your injuries may become worse over time, as many injuries take a few days to become noticeable. The insurance company may find it suspicious if you did not take legal action right away after being hit by a car. You may even feel fine after an accident only to realize that your back or neck hurts a few days later and you need to take time off work for medical help.
Here are some of the most common types of motorcycle accidents injuries:
When you first speak to a motorcycle accident lawyer, they will want to determine who is at fault. Your lawyer will do this by going over the motorcycle crash in detail to see who is responsible, including going over witness statements, police reports, photos from the scene of the accident, security video footage, and more. The lawyer will also strongly rely on you to recall the exact details of the event. Calling a lawyer while these details are fresh in your mind is the best way to prove that you are not at fault. Contacting a lawyer right away also means that you’ll have a better chance of collecting the evidence you need for your case.
Here are some examples of situations in which your lawyer can help prove that you were not at fault for your motorcycle crash:
Keep in mind that after a motorcycle crash, you (as the motorcyclist) will likely be viewed as the person at fault. This is because insurance companies will look for many reasons to call you a careless or reckless rider. If the insurance company finds that you are at least partially responsible for the accident, they will try to deny you a settlement or compensation for your accident. However, hiring a lawyer is the first step to proving that you were not at fault. A motorcycle accident attorney can also help you stand up to the insurance company when they try to claim that you are at fault or contributed in some way to the accident.
Motorcycle accidents often leave those who have been hit with serious injuries, which means high medical fees as well as weeks, months, or even years of missed work. The thought of hiring an expensive lawyer might seem like something you can’t afford. However, keep in mind that a lawyer can help you get as much money from the insurance company, making them an investment you can’t afford NOT to make. Additionally, lawyers do not cost anything upfront.
This is because motorcycle accident lawyers work on something known as contingency. Working on contingency means that the lawyer only gets paid if they win or settle your case. If your lawyer wins your settlement or a monetary reward from the insurance company, then they will take a percentage of what you win as their fee. This means that you will never have to pay them out of pocket, and the money that a lawyer makes always comes from the settlement offer, which is great motivation for your lawyer to work as hard as they can for you!
If the motorcycle accident attorney does not win your case, then there is no fee for you to pay them. This allows you to focus your efforts on healing and recovering from your accident without having to worry about how you’re going to afford your lawyer. It also ensures that your lawyer will work extra hard because the more money you settle on, the more money your lawyer makes. The contingency fee - or the amount your lawyer takes from your settlement money - may vary depending on the lawyer and law firm they work for. However, most motorcycle accident lawyers will take between 33.3% and 40% of whatever you win.
In some cases, a motorcycle accident attorney will use something called a sliding scale for their contingency fee that may vary depending on what you use your lawyer for. For example, if you only need your lawyer for a small task, such as sending a demand letter, and they settle your claim very early on, then they may only charge a small amount on the lower end of the sliding scale. However, if you file a motorcycle accident lawsuit and your case goes to trial, then your attorney may charge the full amount of 40% as it will take up a lot of their time.
If you’re wondering how much it costs to hire a motorcycle accident attorney, don’t assume anything as each lawyer may have different rates. Be sure to ask about their fees and what they will take from your settlement when you meet with them during your free consultation. Some attorneys may charge for small details that you will need to pay out of pocket even if your lawyer does not win a settlement for you. This is because there are legal fees associated with gathering evidence, such as fees for the following:
Most of the time, your lawyer will cover the costs of these fees as they pop up. Then they will deduct this from your settlement when they win your case. However, some lawyers will charge you for these fees upfront, which is rare - but you’ll want to ask your lawyer how they handle these fees before they pop up. Get a clear understanding of how your lawyer handles fees when you meet with them during your free consultation so that they don’t become a problem later on. Also, you will want to find out how your lawyer will handle these fees if your case is not settled. Will you have to pay them? Does your attorney waive them? Be sure to ask these questions as you could be left paying for them out of pocket.
After a motorcycle accident, there are two types of claims you can file. The first is a personal injury claim. In many states, motorcycle riders are not required to have personal injury protection (PIP) insurance like cars. Therefore, if you get hurt in an accident, you will likely need to file a personal injury claim against the other driver’s insurance company to cover the costs of your medical expenses and time off work. Also, if you have Med Pay coverage, then you can file a claim with your own insurance company to help cover medical expenses.
Personal injury claims are designed to help you collect on damages caused by injuries you sustained during the accident. This may include money to help pay for medical bills, permanent injuries and scarring, lost wages from having to take time off work to see a doctor, physical pain and suffering, emotional and mental distress, and future anticipated losses, such as having to see a doctor several times a week for treatment.
The second type of claim that you can file after getting into a motorcycle accident is a property damage claim. If you have collision insurance, then you can file a claim with your own insurance company to help cover any property damage to your motorcycle. If you do not have collision insurance, then you can file with the other driver’s insurance company. This is why it’s important to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer as working with the other person’s insurance company can be difficult and they will try everything in their power not to pay you.
A property damage claim can help you get compensation for damage sustained to your motorcycle during the accident. You can also file a property damage claim to cover the cost of towing for your bike (from the scene of the accident), rental car expenses if you need to rent a car temporarily, and any damage to personal items that may have been involved in the accident, such as your phone, laptop, or other electronics that may have been damaged during the crash. Keep in mind that sometimes an insurance company will decide that it’s cheaper to replace your motorcycle than to fix it. This decision is made based on the bike’s fair market value.
When you’re ready to file a claim, you’ll want to start by gathering as much information about your case and accident as possible. If you hire a lawyer, then they can do this for you. The information that your lawyer collects will serve as evidence for your claim. It will help demonstrate that you deserve the full amount of compensation. Your lawyer will also communicate with the insurance company and at-fault parties to file a claim on your behalf. Hiring a lawyer is essentially the best way to file a claim because this ensures it will be done properly.
Q: What can a motorcycle accident attorney do for me?
A: You might wonder if hiring a motorcycle accident attorney is worth it. Most people would welcome legal help from a trained professional, but they worry about lawyer fees. However, as we mentioned above, there is no upfront fee associated with hiring a lawyer. In other words, attorneys do not get paid until they win your case.
Hiring a motorcycle accident attorney can help protect you from the insurance company. This is because insurance companies want to make sure that they pay you as little as possible. They will try to blame you for the claim (even if you were not at fault), claim that your injuries are not that bad or did not result from the accident, or offer you a lowball settlement after dragging your case out for so long that you’ll accept anything. However, if you were not at fault, then you should not have to pay for the costs. Insurance companies do not care about this. They are only concerned about making money and they are trained to look for ways to pay you less.
A motorcycle accident attorney is trained to protect you from insurance companies and they can protect you from being taken advantage of or bullied by them. They do this by building a strong case for you by gathering evidence and negotiating with the insurance company when they try to offer you less than what your accident is worth. Hiring a lawyer means that you will have legal help every step of the way and you will not have to pay your attorney until they win your case.
Q: Can I collect damages from a “minor” motorcycle accident?
A: Yes, you can collect damages from a motorcycle accident that did not cause major injuries. This is because most motorcycle accidents involve a “pain and suffering” component. Pain and suffering can be harder to prove than physical injuries like a broken arm, but it doesn’t mean it’s not real. Pain and suffering refers to physical and/or emotional stress caused by an accident. It’s just as important as the physical injuries that go along with it. For example, if a motorcyclist was burned as a result of the accident, they could collect money for the pain and suffering due to the burn itself, the treatment of the burn, the discomfort it caused, and any limitations it imposed on the rider’s life. The motorcyclist would also be able to collect money for the stress endured and any limitations with being permanently scarred or injured as a result of the burn.
Q: How is pain and suffering determined?
A: Because there is no standard rule for calculating pain and suffering, it’s not easy to define a clear method that insurers use. Many insurance companies will calculate pain and suffering by looking at the severity of the injuries in your accident and how permanent they are. For example, you might be entitled to more money for pain and suffering if you break several ribs than if you just bruised your arm. This makes sense as broken ribs would cause you more pain and suffering than a bruised arm. Typically, the more severe your injuries are, the more you’ll get for pain and suffering. Insurance companies usually multiply the sum of medical bills between one and five to determine pain and suffering. Your attorney will need to use their best judgment when estimating your pain and suffering. You may need to have your attorney explain and justify any pain and suffering claims you make in a demand letter to the insurance company.
Q: Why can’t I hire any lawyer for a motorcycle accident crash?
A: Hiring a motorcycle accident attorney - and not just any lawyer - is important because it means that your lawyer has legal training that specifically pertains to motorcycle accidents. Don’t assume that just because someone is a lawyer, they will be able to successfully handle your motorcycle accident claim if they have no experience in this area. Not all personal injury lawyers have experience in motorcycle accident claims, and this could cost you the case. For example, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney knows that speed is stability on a motorcycle, and they can use specific information like this to defend you in court. Remember that just because you had a lawyer in the past doesn’t mean they will be able to represent you this time. If you are in a motorcycle accident, then it’s best to work with an attorney who specializes in this area.
Q: What are the most important qualities to look for in a motorcycle accident attorney?
A: There are several things to look for in a motorcycle accident attorney. First, you will want to find an attorney near you who specializes in motorcycle law. You may see an advertisement or commercial for motorcycle accident attorneys on TV, but some of them may be located out of state or several hours away from where you live. If you hire a firm that lives out of state, they will usually refer your case to another firm near you, meaning that you might be stuck with a lawyer that you know nothing about. Finding a motorcycle attorney in your city or state means that you will be represented by a lawyer who knows the courts and judges in your area, and you’ll have better luck winning your case.
You’ll also want to ask questions to make sure the lawyer you pick specializes in motorcycle accidents. Not all personal injury lawyers handle motorcycle accidents. This is important because there are many differences between a motorcycle accident injury and other injuries - such as injuries from a car crash or work-related injuries - especially if you suffered from road rash. Be sure to ask questions to make sure your lawyer is experienced in motorcycle accident crashes.
Next, make sure your lawyer has time for you and demonstrates a good personality. You can ask around to see if your lawyer has a good reputation, which is an indication of a good work ethic. If the lawyer talks down to you or argues with you during your free consultation, then it’s a good indication that the two of you won’t get along for the legal journey. It’s also a good idea to make sure the lawyer you meet with is the one you’ll be working with for the duration of the claim. Ask questions to make sure that you’ll be working with them and not one of their co-workers. Also, make sure they have time to represent you if your case goes to trial.
Q: How long does it take a motorcycle accident claim to settle?
A: A motorcycle claim can take several weeks or months to settle, depending on several factors. In some cases, the insurance company will settle your claim out of court within a somewhat timely manner, such as a few weeks. However, this is not always the case. Insurance companies do their best not to pay you and they are notorious for dragging out cases until you become so desperate that you settle for less than what your claim is worth. Hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer can help speed up the process so that the insurance company does not try to take advantage of you. A motorcycle accident attorney can also help you if your claim does not settle out of court. Keep in mind that a motorcycle accident is much different than a car accident. There are many factors to consider and this can take longer than usual to settle your claim.
Q: What is the most common motorcycle accident?
A: The single most dangerous situation for a motorcycle rider occurs when a car makes a left-hand turn in front of them and hits them. These collisions make up about 42% of all accidents involving a motorcycle and car. They occur when the car that is turning hits the motorcycle rider when they are going straight through an intersection or passing the car. Left-hand turn accidents are also common among car accidents, but motorcycles are small in size - making them more vulnerable to becoming seriously injured during these accidents. Motorcycle accidents may also occur when the motorcyclist is trying to pass a car and they change lanes without looking. It’s almost always the driver’s fault if they hit a motorcyclist while trying to turn left. However, if the motorcyclist was speeding or was trying to pass a car in the wrong lane, then they may get less compensation for their injuries.
Q: How is a motorcycle accident settlement paid out?
A: Compensation for a motorcycle accident settlement can be paid out as a series of payments or as one large lump sum. The terms and conditions of a structured settlement can be changed to meet the needs of the motorcycle accident victim. However, once these terms are agreed upon, they cannot be changed. For example, if you agree to have your payment all at once, then you can’t change it to a series of payments over time once the terms have been settled.
If you choose a lump sum payment, then you’ll get to choose how you want to invest your money. Keep in mind that your payout is tax-free, but you will be taxed on any money you make if you invest it. Structured settlements don’t allow you to invest the money all at once, but they can be broken down to help meet the present and future needs of your family. Before choosing, you may want to consider your money management skills and long-term goals. If you think that you may misuse the lump sum, then opt to get your money in structured amounts over time. This can also help with budgeting to pay bills as they come up and not having to rely on a lump sum.
Q: Do I have to pay taxes on my motorcycle accident settlement money?
A: You will not have to pay taxes on money that you receive as part of an insurance claim settlement. This is because the IRS only taxes money you make as part of income, which is defined as money that results in you having more wealth than before. The purpose of a motorcycle accident insurance claim is to help you recover from the accident, meaning that you should only get enough money to make you whole again or return you financially to what you were worth before the accident occurred and you had to miss work. For example, if you receive a substantial payment from the insurance company to fix your wrecked motorcycle or pay for medical bills from numerous doctor visits, then it would not be taxable. However, if you invest your money and receive a profit from it, then that money is taxable.
Q: Can you get PTSD from a motorcycle accident?
A: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, is common among motorcyclists who were in a severe accident. This condition is characterized by re-experiencing, flashbacks, nightmares, and thoughts about the accident that may cause the motorcyclist to become afraid of riding or being on the road again. Other symptoms of PTSD may include difficulty remembering the event, emotional numbness, depression, guilt, or avoiding certain actions and events. Motorcyclists with PTSD may become easily startled, have trouble sleeping, and become edgy or extremely angry.
Most of the time, PTDS falls under the category of pain and suffering. If you think you may have suffered PTSD from a motorcycle accident, then talk to a motorcycle accident lawyer about how they might be able to help. You may be eligible for compensation, even if you did not experience any other injuries from your crash. Proving emotional damage is a bit harder than if you have a physical injury. Because of this, you may want to hire a motorcycle accident attorney who knows how to prove in court that you are suffering from PTSD and require compensation for medical treatment, which is just as important as healing from physical injuries.
Q: Does disability cover motorcycle accidents?
A: If you have been in a motorcycle accident, then you should seek immediate medical attention, even if you think that you did not sustain any immediate injuries. Motorcycle accidents can cause trauma that puts you into a state of shock, which can delay the feelings of pain that indicate you have an injury. Many motorcycle accident injuries do not become noticeable until hours, days, or sometimes even weeks after the accident. Brain trauma is an example of a motorcycle accident injury that is not always obvious, and it can only be diagnosed by a doctor. Immediate action is critical to prevent permanent brain injuries due to a motorcycle accident.
Most motorcycle accidents result in some sort of injury, including road rash, internal injuries, fractures, or pain and suffering. No matter how insignificant the injury may seem, proper medical treatment can help you avoid permanent disability after a motorcycle accident. Getting medical help after a motorcycle accident can also ensure you took proper measures after the accident, and - if your case goes to trial - this can be proof that you really are injured and will help you while filing for disability insurance. The first step to filing disability insurance is to make sure you are eligible. Be sure to record any information about the accident as soon as possible after it happens. Then you will need to file an application for disability or social security at the Social Security office, online, or through email. Your personal injury lawyer can help you with this.
