Motorcycle Lawyer Jared Richards recently shared some golden nuggets of wisdom on the Full Throttle Law TikTok about picking the perfect motorcycle accident lawyer. As fellow riders AND lawyers, we know how crucial this info is. So, let’s break it down and see why his tips are so important for anyone who’s had the misfortune of a motorcycle accident.
@fullthrottlelaw
Look for Experience in Motorcycle Accident Law
Jared’s first piece of advice? Don’t settle for a newbie when it comes to motorcycle accident cases. While every lawyer has to start somewhere, motorcycle accidents are a whole different beast compared to your average fender bender.
Why does experience matter so much? Well, motorcycle accident cases come with their own set of challenges. An experienced lawyer will understand:
- The unique dynamics of motorcycle accidents
- Common biases against motorcyclists
- Specific injuries often seen in motorcycle crashes
- How to deal with insurance companies that might try to lowball motorcyclists
A lawyer who’s been handling motorcycle cases for years has likely seen it all – from minor scrapes to, unfortunately, catastrophic injuries. They’ll know the ins and outs of medical jargon related to common motorcycle injuries, the nitty-gritty of insurance policies for bikes, and all the legal twists and turns that might pop up in your case.
Find a Lawyer Focused on Motorcycle Accidents
Next up, Jared suggests looking for a lawyer who’s all about motorcycle accident law. Some lawyers try to be jacks-of-all-trades, handling everything from divorces to criminal cases. But when it comes to motorcycle accidents, you want someone who lives and breathes this stuff.
A lawyer who focuses on motorcycle accidents is more likely to:
- Stay up-to-date with the latest motorcycle safety regulations
- Understand the technical aspects of different types of motorcycles
- Have connections with accident reconstruction experts who understand motorcycle dynamics
- Know how to effectively counter common arguments used against motorcyclists
Think about it this way: If you needed heart surgery, would you go to a general practitioner or a heart surgeon? The same principle applies here. A lawyer who’s 100% focused on motorcycle accidents is more likely to know all the latest developments in this area of law and how to get you the best outcome possible.
Make Sure They’re Ready for the Road… and the Courtroom
Here’s a big one: make sure your lawyer isn’t afraid to take your case all the way. Jared points out that not all cases end with a nice, tidy settlement. Sometimes, you’ve got to take it to trial to get what you deserve. You need a lawyer who’s as comfortable in front of a judge and jury as they are on a bike.
Why is this so important for motorcycle cases? Well, unfortunately, there’s often a bias against motorcyclists. Some people (including potential jurors) might assume that all bikers are reckless. A good motorcycle accident lawyer knows how to combat these prejudices effectively in court.
Look for a lawyer who:
- Has a track record of successful trials, not just settlements
- Can explain complex motorcycle dynamics to a jury
- Isn’t afraid to go up against big insurance companies
- Has experience with motorcycle-specific evidence, like knowing how scrape marks from motorcycles sliding can be used to figure out speed.
Remember, a lawyer who’s willing and able to go to trial often gets better settlement offers too. Insurance companies are more likely to play fair when they know your lawyer isn’t afraid of the courtroom.
@fullthrottlelaw You need a large enough law firm to cover the cost of litigation. #lawyer #lasvegas
Check Their Financial Horsepower
Jared brings up a point that might not cross your mind at first: money. Taking a motorcycle accident case to court can be expensive. We’re talking expert witnesses, accident reconstruction, medical evidence, depositions – the costs can add up faster than a sport bike hitting the highway.
You want a law firm that can handle these expenses without breaking a sweat. It’s not just about deep pockets; it’s about having the resources to fight for you all the way to the finish line. A well-resourced firm can:
- Hire the best motorcycle accident reconstruction experts
- Bring in medical specialists to testify about your injuries
- Invest in high-quality visual aids to explain complex accident scenarios to a jury
- Take on big insurance companies without flinching at the cost of a prolonged legal battle
Remember, many motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win. Make sure your lawyer has the financial stability to see your case through, no matter how long it takes.
Look at Their Track Record with Big Bike Cases
Last but not least, Jared suggests checking out how a lawyer handles high-value motorcycle accident cases. If you’re dealing with a serious injury from a motorcycle crash, your case might be worth big bucks. You need a lawyer who knows how to handle the pressure and complexity that comes with these high-stakes situations.
A lawyer experienced with high-value motorcycle cases will:
- Understand the long-term impacts of common motorcycle injuries
- Know how to calculate future medical costs and lost earnings
- Be able to value non-economic damages like pain and suffering accurately
- Have experience dealing with life-altering injuries or wrongful death cases
They should be able to see the big picture, understanding how your motorcycle accident might affect you years down the road. This is crucial for making sure you get compensation that truly reflects the impact of the accident on your life.
Gearing Up for Success
Choosing a motorcycle accident lawyer isn’t something to take lightly. It’s a decision that could seriously impact your future, your finances, and your ability to get back on the road. By following Jared’s advice, you’re setting yourself up for success. Look for experience with motorcycle cases, a focus on this area of law, courtroom chops, financial stability, and a track record of handling big bike accident cases.
Remember, at Full Throttle Law, we’re always here to talk if you have questions. We know motorcycles, we know the law, and we know what it takes to fight for riders’ rights. We’ve been down this road many times, and we’re ready to put our experience to work for you.
Stay safe out there, always wear your gear, and remember – if you ever need us after a motorcycle accident, we’ve got your back. We’re riders too, and we’ll fight for you like one of our own. Keep the rubber side down, and the shiny side up!
