How much lawyers charge for accident claims depends on a variety of factors. These include whether the accident claim is resolved out of court or goes all the way to trial. In general, personal injury lawyers such as those dealing with motorcycle accidents typically work on a so-called “contingency fee” agreement.
A contingency fee, as the American Bar Association (ABA) explains, is what a lawyer will recover if they handle your claim successfully. This arrangement can work out in a victim’s favor. They typically do not have to pay a dime in attorney’s fees if they lose the case. However, your lawyer will receive a percentage of your final settlement if you win your case. It’s usually around one-third of the payout.
As the exact percentage of what motorcycle accident lawyers charge may vary considerably, you should always discuss any fees with an attorney upfront. Also, bear in mind that not all lawyers work on contingency fee arrangements, and some charge hourly rates or a retainer to work on your case.
Costs Involved With a Personal Injury Claim
Handling a claim on your own can have many pitfalls, especially if you do not know the extent of your damages and how much your claim is worth. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle accident victims can require long and costly treatments for their injuries. You must consider professional legal help to recover medical expenses. In the long run, it can be worth it, despite paying a percentage of your settlement to your attorney.
However, there are not only the attorney’s fees to consider when you are thinking about filing a lawsuit. Other costs that you could be responsible for whether you win or lose a claim can include:
- The court filing fee
- Expert witness fees
- Transcription costs
- Costs for pulling and copying official documents
- Costs of gathering evidence such as police reports
- Deposition costs
- Miscellaneous costs such as postage and admin expenses
Attorneys may agree to pay for these upfront costs. However, if you win your claim or receive an out-of-court settlement, plan on having to reimburse the attorney. If you lose your claim, you may also have to repay these court costs so, in order to avoid any misunderstandings, make sure you discuss all matters pertaining to attorney’s fees and potential other expenses with your attorney.
What a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Do for You
If you suffered serious and potentially life-altering injuries in a motorcycle accident, having the help of a dedicated motorcycle accident lawyer can give you peace of mind and legal protection.
Your lawyer can see a claim through from beginning to end, making sure that insurance companies are not taking advantage of you and preventing you from leaving money on the table. They can help you fight for adequate compensation by:
- Analyzing your case fully and identifying all negligent parties
- Determining your damages and organizing evidence to prove them
- Collecting and organizing evidence detailing proof of negligence
- Communicating with all insurance companies involved in the claim
- Presenting your case strongly at a trial
If you suffered injuries and expenses due to another party’s careless driving or other negligent acts, they should pay for your damages and make you whole again. A motorcycle accident lawyer can work tirelessly to help you receive the settlement you deserve.
We Can Help You Pursue Your Motorcycle Accident Case
Recovering from a motorcycle accident can be emotionally and physically taxing, as well as extremely expensive. However, Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices can help you seek adequate compensation for your accident, which can include medical expenses, income losses, pain and suffering, and many others.
Filing a lawsuit can be stressful, physically, and mentally demanding. It can also become full of pitfalls for those who are trying to represent themselves.
Contact Our Attorneys Today
Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices is committed to helping accident victims recover a settlement that covers all their damages, including past, present, and future expenses. Call us now for a free consultation at (888) 522-6291.