Motorcycle accidents and the injuries that result can cause a great deal of financial strain for an accident victim and their family. If you got hurt in an accident and are wondering how much it will cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer, it may surprise you to learn that a lawyer does not always charge upfront fees. A motorcycle accident lawyer can work for you on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if they win your case and you receive a settlement. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) confirms that in most cases, the lawyer will take a percentage of your settlement as their fee—but this fee is always negotiable.
While lawyers do not charge any upfront attorney’s fees, you may still have to pay other costs such as the court fee, the fee for an expert witness to testify in your case, or the cost of requesting certain documents you may need for your claim. While some attorneys may charge you for these services, others will take them from your settlement along with their attorney’s fees. To find out more about attorney’s fees and other charges, you should speak to a motorcycle accident lawyer who can advise you regarding your case.
The Benefits of Hiring a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you got into a serious motorcycle accident and are left with medical bills, property damage, and other costs as a result, it can be tricky to hold the negligent driver accountable without legal help. A lawyer can protect you and act in your best interests. USA Today reports that while you do have the right to represent yourself in a court case, missing simple steps in the court process can easily trip up those who self-represent—ultimately leading to them leaving money on the table.
A motorcycle accident lawyer can take charge of your entire case and give you peace of mind, especially if proving negligence of the other driver turns out to be tough. It is one thing to “know” that the other driver is at fault, but you will have to prove their fault and negligence with hard evidence.
A lawyer can help:
Build Your Case
A motorcycle accident lawyer can analyze your case thoroughly and gather the evidence necessary for your claim. They can also supply any expert witnesses if required for your case.
Negotiate Settlements
Sometimes, the at-fault party’s insurance company will approach you to try and settle out of court. While an out-of-court settlement can work out in your favor, do not agree to anything without discussing the offer with your attorney first. In most instances, the insurance company is trying to get you to accept a low-ball offer and sign away your rights to legal action. Your motorcycle lawyer can negotiate with your best interests at heart.
Fight Your Case in Court
If the parties are unable to agree on an out-of-court settlement, a motorcycle accident lawyer can fight for your rights and compensation in court.
Having a lawyer on your side also leaves you free to recover from your injuries while the lawyer works on building your case and fights for justice on your behalf.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Many motorcycle crashes are the fault of car drivers who either overlook the motorcyclist or misjudge speed. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about one-third of all crashes occur due to a car driver turning into the path of the motorcycle. Other reasons for motorcycle crashes include:
- Speeding
- Driving while intoxicated
- Improperly passing
- Distracted driving
- Following too closely
- Driving recklessly
In any serious accident with a car, the motorcyclist is usually worse off because they lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle. Injuries can be catastrophic and have an impact on the motorcyclist for the rest of their lives. If someone else is at-fault for causing your injuries—due to breaking traffic laws, for example—they should pay for your damages.
A motorcycle lawyer may be able help you recover compensation that can cover any medical costs now and in the future. A settlement can also include amounts for lost wages and other costs related to the accident. Depending on your injuries, you could also recover awards for loss of life enjoyment, physical suffering, and emotional distress, among others.
Ben Crump Law, PLLC Can Work for You
When you have suffered financial damages and injuries due to the fault of another, it is natural to wonder how much it will cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer to help with your claim. At Ben Crump Law, PLLC, we work on a contingency basis, so you do not have to worry about any upfront attorney’s fees. We only get paid if and when we win your case.
If someone else caused your accident and injuries, they should make you whole again. To learn how we can help, call Ben Crump Law, PLLC today at (800) 959-1444.
