When a motorcycle accident causes injury and financial devastation, your focus must be on healing and full recovery of your physical and mental health. Yet, these accidents are complex from a legal standpoint as insurance companies deny claims and delay settlements. Hiring the right New Jersey motorcycle accident lawyer is critical to recovering fair compensation as soon as possible.
Not All Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Approach Your Case the Same
At the core of every motorcycle accident is demonstrating the other driver was responsible for the physical, emotional, and financial losses you have and then holding their insurance company accountable to the fullest possible level under the law. However, the ability to achieve these objectives is dependent on who you hire, how much time and effort they put into your case and their experience.
The following are some of the most important factors to consider when hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer in New Jersey.
A Trial-Experienced Attorney
Some motorcycle accidents end up at trial. If your case is complex, or the insurance company wants to blame you for it, you need a fierce, experienced trial attorney. This ensures you will know your rights and what to expect if your case goes to trial. It also ensures insurance companies take you seriously to avoid a trial. Having a trusted, experienced, and known trial attorney on your case may encourage them to settle instead.
Success in Cases Like Your Own
Choose a motorcycle accident attorney in NJ with experience in cases like your own, including:
- The city and roadways that you operate on so they understand the terrain
- The type of accident you have, such as a rear-ending or head-on collision
- The contributing factors in your case, such as intoxication or commercial trucks
Most importantly, select an attorney who understands your medical complexities. Motorcycle accidents cause life-changing injuries, often requiring months, if not years, of recovery and rehabilitation. It impacts every facet of your life. You need an attorney who recognizes the implications to your life from this accident and how it will determine your future quality of life and even how long you live.
No Fee If You Lose
Choose a motorcycle accident lawyer who operates on a contingency basis, meaning they do not charge you any upfront fees. This is critical.
If an attorney is charging you a retainer, they may not believe in the success of your case (in personal injury matters). When you select an attorney who is paid only if they win your case, that works in your favor and shows they are going to work hard to prove your right to fair compensation.
Compassionate and Fierce Legal Advocacy
Select an attorney capable of providing exceptional legal service to you. What does that mean, though?
- They should be your fierce advocate. That includes handling questions from insurance companies on your behalf, handling the legal process, and pursuing legal action to protect your rights.
- A reputation for success. You want the court to know that you are serious about your claims. Having an attorney by your side with a strong, local reputation for getting results ensures they take your case seriously.
- Compassionate in their support for you. Most victims benefit from an attorney who takes the time to listen to them and truly understand their case, claims, injuries, and impacts. Select an attorney who cares about your outcome.
It may seem that these are factors that are less important when filing a claim against an insurance company. Yet, large firms often miss key opportunities to support the individual needs of their clients. Smaller firms may not have the resources to support you. Choose an attorney that offers a balanced approach to be sure your case is a priority.
The Key Questions to Ask a Motorcycle Accident Attorney During Your Free Consultation
A free consultation is the ideal way to get to know the motorcycle accident attorney. You should ask every question you have about your specific case. However, there are also some questions to ask about the attorney that could be eye-opening to you.
- What type of cases have they encountered like your own in the past? What did they do, and what was the outcome?
- How much time will the attorneys themselves work on your case? How many additional people will handle your case, if any?
- What is your case worth? Your attorney cannot promise a specific figure, but they should be willing to discuss what you can expect based on the details of your situation.
- What type of reputation does the lawyer have in the local courts? Ask for examples of trial experience.
- How many cases does the attorney have at one time? How do you know your case will get the necessary attention?
Choosing the right New Jersey motorcycle accident lawyer should give you peace of mind. You should feel as if you have an experienced professional by your side. At Kwartler Manus, our legal team is ready to fight for you. Call us today for a free consultation.