7 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

7 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

About 5,172 motorcyclists died in motorcycle crashes in the span of a single year. If you were in a recent motorcycle accident, it is important to find a motorcycle accident lawyer who can represent you. They can protect your legal interests and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
 
Otherwise, you might lose wages after missing days at work or have to cover property damages alone.
 
Do not choose the first lawyer you speak with, though. Instead, make sure to ask these seven questions before choosing a motorcycle accident lawyer. By asking these questions, you can find the best lawyer to handle your case.
 

1. Do You Specialize in Motorcycle Accident Cases?

 
First, look for a lawyer who specializes in motorcycle accident cases.
 
A personal injury attorney might help cover medical malpractice cases, product liability claims, and other injury-related lawsuits. When choosing a lawyer, make sure to find one whose specialty is relevant to your needs.
 
A lawyer who has experience with motorcycle accidents will have the expertise necessary to win your case. Lawyers who specialize in a branch of law dedicate themselves to their work. They focus on laws, procedures, and lawsuits that are relevant to your specific case. Their specialized experience could give you an advantage.
 
Choosing a lawyer with broader experience, however, might leave gaps in the lawyer’s knowledge base.
 
When interviewing different attorneys, ask how long they have practiced law. Look for someone with plenty of years under their belt. Then, ask how long they have specialized in motorcycle accident lawsuits.
 
A lawyer who has recently started specializing might not have the knowledge of experience you need to win.
 
Instead, take your time to develop a list of motorcycle accident lawyers before using the rest of these tips.
 

2. Do You Have Trial Experience?

 
Is your lawyer prepared if your case goes to trial?
 
Some lawyers feel more comfortable settling cases out of court. If the lawyer you are researching is apprehensive about going to trial, keep looking. You need someone who can navigate courtroom proceedings and speak with confidence.
 
Your case might not go before a judge or jury. However, you will still want the peace of mind that your lawyer can handle themselves if the case does go to court.
 
Look for someone with years of trial experience under the belt. After all, people learn from hands-on experience. Choosing a lawyer who has gone to trial countless times will ensure they know what they are doing.
 
As you interview different lawyers, make a note of their communication skills. Do they answer your questions clearly and concisely? Do they seem to have an air of confidence?
 
Your lawyer will need to speak on your behalf before a judge. If they cannot convince you of their abilities, they likely will not convince a jury of your side of the story, either.
 

3. What is Your Track Record?

 
When choosing a motorcycle accident lawyer, you will want to choose a winner. Otherwise, you might fail to receive the compensation you deserve. As a result, pay for damages and losses out of your own pocket.
 
As you interview different lawyers, ask about their track record. How many cases have they won overall? How many cases have they won recently?
 
Ask how many of those cases involved a motorcycle accident.
 
You might want to ask how often your lawyer settles cases out of court, too. If they prefer to settle a lot of cases, it might indicate they are more interested in their track record than winning.
 
Talk to each lawyer you interview about their recent cases. Were any of those cases similar to yours? What was the outcome of each case?
 
You can also ask each lawyer about the payouts they have acquired in the past.
 
Speaking with each lawyer about their track record will help you determine if they are capable of winning your case.
 

4. Are You Licensed?

 
Before hiring a lawyer, make sure they are licensed to practice law in your state. You can head online to your local bar association website to check. If the lawyer’s license and insurance are not up-to-date, scratch them off your list.
 
Is the lawyer an active member of any law organization? Their membership could indicate they stay up-to-date about recent trial strategies and techniques.
 

5. What is the Most Likely Outcome for My Case?

 
Many lawyers offer a free case consultation before they take you on as a client. When searching for a motorcycle accident attorney, make sure to talk about the specifics of your case. Let them know what happened on the day of the accident.
 
You might want to discuss your injuries and property losses, too.
 
Your lawyer will let you know what steps you need to take next. They can also help you recognize the potential outcome for your case.
 
How much does the lawyer expect to win for your case? Do they feel comfortable representing you in court? Do they think you have enough evidence to win in front of a judge and jury?
 
Discussing the specifics of your case can help you develop realistic expectations about the potential outcome.
 

6. Can I Speak With Previous Clients?

 
Before hiring a lawyer, make sure to ask for references and reviews. A lawyer who feels confident in their abilities will have plenty of happy clients they can refer you to.
 
Make sure to verify that these clients exist. In addition, ask each client about their case and their experience working with the attorney.
 
What was the outcome of their case? Did they regret working with that attorney? Did they experience any issues throughout the duration of their case?
 
Speaking with each lawyer’s previous clients will help you imagine working with that lawyer yourself. You can also find reviews online.
 

7. What is Your Fee Structure?

 
Make sure to speak with each lawyer about their contract. What is included? Do they work on a contingency basis?
 
Some lawyers cost $100 to $400 an hour. Others take a percentage of what you win from the settlement.
 
With a contingency fee structure, you will only pay your lawyer if they win the case. They will receive a percentage of your award as labeled in your contract. Above all, a contingency fee basis will give you peace of mind your attorney dedicated to winning the biggest payout.
 

Ask an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today

 
Start searching! With these seven questions, you can get on the right track and find a motorcycle accident lawyer with your best interests in mind. Work with a qualified lawyer to get the compensation you deserve today.
 
Want to discuss your case with a team of professionals? Contact us today for a free case evaluation.