Why Your Choice of Attorney Matters
Not all personal injury attorneys are equal — and not all personal injury attorneys have meaningful experience with motorcycle cases. Choosing the right lawyer can be the single biggest factor in whether you receive fair compensation or leave money on the table. Here's what to look for.
1. Specific Motorcycle Accident Experience
Look for an attorney who has handled motorcycle accident cases specifically — not just general car accidents. Motorcycle cases involve unique factors: bias against riders, helmet laws, lane-splitting legality, and different injury patterns. Ask directly: "How many motorcycle accident cases have you handled in the past two years?"
2. A Contingency Fee Structure
Most reputable motorcycle accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis — meaning they only get paid if you win. This aligns their incentives with yours. Typical contingency fees range from 25%–40% depending on case complexity. Avoid any attorney who demands large upfront retainers for accident cases.
3. A Track Record of Results
Ask about their case outcomes. While no attorney can guarantee results, a history of successful settlements and verdicts in similar cases is a strong indicator of competence. Be cautious of attorneys who can't provide any examples of past case outcomes.
4. Strong Communication Skills
Your attorney should explain complex legal concepts clearly and be responsive to your questions. Warning signs include:
- Taking days to return calls or emails
- Delegating all communication to a paralegal with no attorney involvement
- Pressuring you to settle quickly without full explanation
5. Resources to Fully Investigate Your Case
Strong motorcycle accident cases often require accident reconstruction experts, medical specialists, and investigators. Ask whether the firm has access to — and will actually use — these resources. Solo attorneys with limited staff may struggle with complex, high-value cases.
6. Trial Readiness
Many cases settle, but insurers know which attorneys actually go to trial and which always settle. An attorney with a reputation for litigating cases commands better settlements. Ask: "If the insurer doesn't offer fair compensation, are you prepared to take this to trial?"
7. A Genuine Consultation — Not a Sales Pitch
The initial consultation should feel like an honest assessment of your case, including its strengths and weaknesses. Be wary of any attorney who guarantees an outcome or focuses entirely on how much money you'll win without asking substantive questions about the facts.
Questions to Ask in Your Consultation
- How many motorcycle cases have you handled?
- Who will be my primary point of contact?
- What is your fee structure?
- What do you see as the strengths and challenges of my case?
- What is the likely timeline?
- Have you taken motorcycle accident cases to trial?
The Bottom Line
Take your time selecting an attorney. Most offer free initial consultations, so meet with more than one before deciding. The right attorney will be experienced, communicative, honest about your case, and genuinely committed to fighting for the best possible outcome.