Motorcycle accidents are uniquely dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are nearly 28 times more likely to die in crashes compared to car occupants.
Survivors often face life-altering injuries, mounting medical bills, and lengthy recoveries. But the aftermath isn’t just about healing. It’s also about navigating a complex legal process to secure the compensation you deserve.
This is where an experienced personal injury lawyer becomes your most important ally. While you focus on getting better, they handle the legal battle and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, here are 6 reasons why hiring an injury lawyer is a smart choice.
- Motorcycle Accidents Often Cause Severe Injuries
Motorcyclists face significant risks on the road. Unlike cars, motorcycles lack protective features like seatbelts, airbags, or a vehicle’s frame to shield them.
As a result, even minor collisions can lead to devastating injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs, spinal cord injuries, road rash, broken bones or fracture.
Recovering from these injuries can result in overwhelming medical bills. Emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments add up quickly, and many accident victims also face lost wages due to time off work.
This financial strain can make it difficult to focus on healing.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s crucial to seek care from an experienced auto accident doctor. These medical professionals specialize in treating accident-related injuries and can provide the documentation needed to support your legal case.
However, an experienced injury lawyer can make all the difference. They’ll calculate the full cost of your damages and fight to secure compensation for your injuries, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- Insurance Companies May Undervalue Your Claim
Insurance companies might seem cooperative, but their primary goal is to protect their bottom line.
They may claim your injuries are minor or pre-existing to avoid paying for treatment. They might even argue you were partially or entirely at fault, despite evidence to the contrary, to weaken your case.
In cases when they agree to pay, they may push quick settlements that seem appealing at first but fail to cover the full extent of your damages.
An injury lawyer knows these tactics and has the experience to counter them. They’ll handle negotiations and ensure you receive a fair settlement that reflects the true value of your claim.
- Determining Liability Can Be Complex
Establishing fault in a motorcycle accident isn’t always straightforward. Liability can become complicated when:
- Accidents involve more than one driver
- Witness accounts vary, and physical evidence doesn’t clearly show what happened
- Bias against motorcyclists leads to unfair assumptions that they are reckless
A skilled injury lawyer will investigate the accident, gather evidence like police reports and witness statements, and even consult experts if necessary. They’ll work to prove negligence and build a strong case in your favor.
However, it’s important to remember that liability rules vary by state.
For example, in Massachusetts, you must prove the other driver was negligent to hold them liable. This involves demonstrating:
- The other driver had a legal responsibility to drive safely.
- They failed to act as a reasonable driver would.
- Their actions directly caused your injuries.
- You suffered losses, like medical bills or lost income, as a result.
A Boston motorcycle accident lawyer can simplify this process for you. They can gather evidence, handle legal requirements, and build a strong case to prove the other driver’s negligence.
- You Need to Focus on Recovery
Recovering from a motorcycle accident is a physically and emotionally exhausting process. You’ve already been through enough so let a lawyer handle the heavy lifting
An injury lawyer will take the stress off your shoulders by managing medical bills, dealing with insurance companies, and handling the legal details.
With their expertise, you can focus on healing and getting your life back on track.
- You May Be Entitled to More Than You Think
Many accident victims don’t realize the full scope of compensation they’re eligible for. Beyond medical bills and lost wages, you may also qualify for:
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Property damage: Reimbursement for repairing or replacing your motorcycle and other personal belongings.
- Future costs: Coverage for long-term medical care, ongoing rehabilitation, or reduced earning capacity.
An injury lawyer knows how to evaluate these damages and ensure you receive fair compensation for both current and future losses.
- Legal Representation Provides Peace of Mind
Having a lawyer on your side provides the reassurance that someone is fighting for your best interests.
By hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer, you’re not just protecting your rights. You’re also ensuring your case is handled with care and expertise.
Moreover, if a fair settlement can’t be reached, they’ll represent you in court to fight for the compensation you deserve.
This allows you to focus on recovery with peace of mind, knowing that an experienced advocate is working to secure the best outcome for you.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
Most motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything upfront to hire them. Instead, their fee is a percentage of the compensation they recover for you, typically ranging from 33% to 40%.
Lawyers also cover essential expenses like filing fees and expert witness costs upfront, which are later deducted from your settlement.
The contingency fee structure ensures your lawyer is fully invested in winning your case.
When to Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Many lawyers offer free consultations, so you can get in touch with a car accident lawyer ASAP to understand your options and take the first step toward justice.
Timing is critical after a motorcycle accident. Contacting a lawyer early allows them to:
- Collect accident details before they’re lost or forgotten
- Obtain accurate statements while memories are fresh
- Prevent you from making statements that could harm your case
You also need to keep statutes of limitations in mind, as they set strict legal deadlines for filing a claim. These deadlines vary by state.
For example, in Massachusetts, you have three years from the date of the accident to take legal action.
Missing this window can result in losing your right to seek compensation, no matter how strong your case is. Acting quickly can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve.
Conclusion
Hiring an injury lawyer after a motorcycle accident is one of the smartest decisions you can make. They bring the expertise, resources, and determination needed to navigate the legal system and secure the compensation you deserve.
From proving fault to negotiating with insurance companies, their support can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Don’t face the aftermath of a motorcycle accident alone. Consult with an experienced injury lawyer today and take the first step toward protecting your rights and rebuilding your life.
