Finding the right lawyer after a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. With so many attorneys out there, how do you know who will fight for you and get you the compensation you deserve? A skilled attorney can make a huge difference in your case by negotiating with insurance companies, gathering strong evidence, and representing you in court if necessary.
Here’s what to look for when hiring a lawyer for your motorcycle accident case.
Experience in Motorcycle Accident Cases
Not all personal injury attorneys have experience handling motorcycle accident claims. These cases can be complex, requiring knowledge of motorcycle-specific laws, accident reconstruction, and how insurance companies try to minimize payouts.
Look for a Specialized Attorney
- A lawyer who focuses on motorcycle accidents understands the unique dangers motorcyclists face on the road.
- They know how to challenge the common bias that motorcyclists are reckless, which insurance companies may use to deny or reduce claims.
- They have handled cases involving serious injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering—giving them the expertise to maximize your settlement.
Why Motorcycle Accident Cases Are Different
Motorcycle accidents often involve more severe injuries than car accidents, making settlements larger and insurance companies more resistant to paying full compensation. An attorney with motorcycle case experience will know:
- How to calculate the long-term financial impact of your injuries.
- What evidence is needed to prove liability and maximize your claim.
- How to handle aggressive insurance adjusters who try to shift blame onto the rider.
Reputation and Client Reviews
A lawyer’s reputation can tell you a lot about their success rate and how they treat clients. You want an attorney with a strong track record of winning motorcycle accident cases and a history of satisfied clients.
Check Online Reviews
- Look at Google Reviews, Avvo, and legal directories to see what previous clients have to say.
- Pay attention to comments about communication, responsiveness, and case results.
- Be cautious of lawyers with too many negative reviews or no reviews at all.
Ask for Case Results
- Ask the attorney about previous motorcycle accident settlements and verdicts they’ve secured for clients.
- While no two cases are the same, seeing high-value settlements can indicate a lawyer’s ability to negotiate effectively.
- A good attorney should be transparent about their success rate and experience.
Communication and Fees
Working with a lawyer means putting your trust in someone to handle one of the most important events in your life. You need an attorney who keeps you informed and is upfront about costs.
Initial Consultations
- Many motorcycle accident lawyers offer free case evaluations. Take advantage of this to ask questions and gauge their professionalism.
- Bring details about your accident, including medical records, police reports, and insurance information.
- Pay attention to whether they listen to you and explain your options clearly and honestly.
Fee Structures
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning:
- You don’t pay anything upfront.
- They only get paid if they win your case.
- Their fee is typically a percentage of your settlement or court award.
Be sure to ask:
- What percentage of my settlement will you take?
- Are there any additional fees for case expenses, like expert witnesses or filing costs?
- Will I owe anything if we don’t win?
Questions to Ask a Lawyer Before Hiring
Before making your decision, ask these key questions to ensure you’re choosing the best lawyer for your case:
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| How many motorcycle accident cases have you handled? | Ensures they have the right experience. |
| What is your success rate? | Gives an idea of their ability to win cases. |
| Do you work on a contingency fee basis? | Confirms if you only pay if you win. |
| How often will we communicate? | Helps set expectations for updates on your case. |
| Will you handle my case personally or pass it to another attorney? | Ensures you’re working with the lawyer you hire. |
| Have you taken motorcycle accident cases to trial? | A trial-experienced lawyer can fight if a fair settlement isn’t offered. |
| How long do you think my case will take? | Gives a realistic timeline for settlement or trial. |
Breaking It All Down
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if the other driver’s insurance company contacts me?
Avoid giving a recorded statement or signing anything without speaking to an attorney. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts and may use your statements against you. It’s best to refer them to your lawyer.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Nevada?
Nevada’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation.
Can I still recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Yes, but it may affect your case. Nevada law requires all motorcyclists to wear helmets. If you weren’t wearing one and suffered a head injury, the insurance company might argue that your injuries were worse because of it. However, you can still pursue compensation for other damages.
What if the driver who hit me was uninsured or underinsured?
You may be able to file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if you have it. This coverage can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages if the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance.
How long does a motorcycle accident case take to settle?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case. Some cases settle in a few months, while others take a year or more if they go to trial. Factors like injury severity, insurance negotiations, and legal proceedings can affect how long it takes.
What types of compensation can I recover in a motorcycle accident claim?
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages if you can’t work
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage to your motorcycle
- Rehabilitation costs
- Loss of enjoyment of life
What if the accident was partially my fault?
Nevada follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation if you were less than 51% at fault. However, your settlement will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault, you would receive 80% of your total damages.
Do I have to go to court for my motorcycle accident case?
To get the most out of your consultation, bring:
- Medical records and bills
- Accident reports
- Photos of the accident scene and injuries
- Witness contact information
- Insurance details
- Any communication from insurance companies
What if my accident was caused by poor road conditions?
If the driver fled the scene and cannot be identified, you may still have options. You can file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage if you have it. A lawyer can help investigate the accident and explore additional sources of compensation.
Can I file a claim if my accident was caused by a defective motorcycle part?
Yes. Brain injuries often lead to emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and even PTSD. These are considered non-economic damages, and you can seek compensation for the mental and emotional impact of your injury.
Additional Resources for You from The Rosenblum Allen Law Firm.
If you’re dealing with a no-fault claim, you may also need legal help for related issues. Here are some valuable resources that can guide you through different personal injury cases:
Las Vegas Personal Injury Attorney – Learn more about how our experienced attorneys handle all types of personal injury cases, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Las Vegas Car Accident Attorney – If you’ve been injured in a car accident, this resource covers your legal options and how to protect your rights in an at-fault system.
Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Las Vegas – Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries. Find out how our legal team can help you recover damages.
Wrongful Death Lawyer Las Vegas – If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, our wrongful death attorneys can help you seek justice and compensation.
Truck Accident Attorney Las Vegas – Accidents involving large trucks can be complex. Learn how our attorneys handle these cases to ensure fair settlements.
Las Vegas Drunk Driving Accident Attorney – Drunk driving accidents can be devastating. This resource explains your legal rights and how to hold the responsible party accountable.
Need personalized legal guidance? Contact our team at The Rosenblum Allen Law Firm for a free consultation today. We’re here to help!
Offsite Resources for You
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – https://www.nhtsa.gov
The NHTSA offers important motorcycle safety statistics, crash prevention tips, and information on helmet laws and rider protection.American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) – https://americanmotorcyclist.com
The AMA advocates for motorcyclists’ rights and provides resources on safe riding practices, motorcycle laws, and legal support for riders.Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) – https://www.msf-usa.org
MSF offers rider training courses, safety tips, and educational materials for new and experienced motorcyclists.National Safety Council (NSC) – https://www.nsc.org
The NSC provides general road safety guidelines, including motorcycle accident prevention and injury recovery resources.Ride Smart Nevada – https://ridesmartnv.com
This Nevada-based resource offers motorcycle safety training, licensing information, and tips for safe riding in the state.Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) – https://www.iihs.org
IIHS conducts research on motorcycle safety, helmet effectiveness, and crash statistics to improve rider protection.State Bar of Nevada – https://nvbar.org
If you need additional legal guidance, the State Bar of Nevada provides resources for finding licensed attorneys and understanding personal injury laws.
A Special Message from Our Lead Attorney, Molly Rosenblum Allen, Esq
Thank you for taking the time to read these resources. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, and I hope this information has helped guide you in the right direction.
If you’re ready to take the next step, my team and I are here to help. Call us at (702) 433-2889, and let’s get the ball rolling on your situation. You don’t have to face this alone—we’re ready to stand by your side and fight for the outcome you deserve.
I look forward to speaking with you.
Molly Rosenblum Allen, Esq.
