Numerous motorcycle accidents are reported in Georgia each month. Unfortunately, not many victims manage to recover a settlement. Georgia has a standard fault-based system, and if you were hurt while riding your motorcycle because of another driver’s reckless driving, you could file a claim with their insurer. The legal maze is more complex than you think. Firstly, you have two years to file a lawsuit, but the deadline is not for insurance claims. That means you have to act immediately. Critical evidence may go missing after some time, and unless there is clarity on fault, you cannot expect to get compensated. Meet Lawbike Motorcycle Injury Lawyers immediately for an assessment. Before you hire an attorney, here are five facts worth your attention.
You don’t need to pay for a consultation
Many injured motorcyclists fail to meet an attorney because they are worried about the consultation fee. Usually, lawyers do demand money for reviewing cases, and the list includes family attorneys, general lawyers, and criminal lawyers. However, personal injury cases are different. Your motorcycle accident attorney will not ask for a case evaluation fee. The first meeting is always FREE, and you get to ask questions and interview the lawyer.
Not all lawyers specialize in motorcycle accident claims
Personal injury lawyers deal with a wide range of cases, starting with medical malpractice and nursing home abuse to slip & fall accidents and dog bites. However, not many can claim to have extensive expertise in handling motorcycle accident cases. You need to find a law firm that specializes in the field and has helped injured motorcyclists. When you meet an attorney, you can ask questions related to their work and discuss some of their biggest settlements and cases.
Your lawyer will communicate on your behalf
A motorcycle accident attorney will ensure you don’t feel pressure from the insurance company. Insurance claims adjusters are smart and know the exact ways to push claimants for recorded statements and settlements. Once you engage an attorney, they will communicate on your behalf. You can refuse to give a statement, and your lawyer will handle the paperwork and related things. They will negotiate the settlement unless the offer is fair and covers your losses.
Your lawyer has resources
One of the better reasons to hire an injury lawyer is their access to resources. A competent and experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will have the contacts you need. For instance, if you were seriously hurt, they may hire expert medical witnesses to prove the extent of your injuries. Similarly, if there is no clarity on fault, your lawyer may engage accident reconstruction specialists to recreate the accident and prove the liability of the other party. Their investigative skills can help resolve complex cases.
Your lawyer will charge a contingency fee
Unlike criminal lawyers, who often ask for a fixed hourly rate and a retainer to take up new cases, injury lawyers work on contingency. They don’t get paid for their work unless their client recovers money. The contingency arrangement allows victims to get legal help in time. The percentage may vary, but you can find motorcycle accident lawyers in Atlanta who would work for as low as 25%. A lot also depends on the variables and complexities of the case.
Final word
Hiring an attorney allows you to take the time to heal from your injuries. If you win a higher settlement for your motorcycle accident claim, they also make more money, and therefore, you don’t have to settle immediately. At the least, consult an expert to know whether your case is strong enough and how to proceed with your claim.