Even responsible people who take the required precautions to stay safe while on the road can find themselves involved in a crash. Two-wheelers are more likely to sustain serious injuries in these situations. Motorcycles don't have the same features as cars, for example, and expose riders to many hazards.
Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents happen all too often. In New York City alone, thousands of people are injured in these incidents, and many of them lose their lives. The fatality rate is 89 deaths per 100,000 registered motorcyclists.
With such alarming numbers, it's important to know what to do in those scenarios. Motorcycle accident victims have the right to take legal action against car drivers and other parties if they're injured due to someone else's negligence or wrongdoing. However, that's something they shouldn't do alone but with a professional attorney by their side. They can also provide insight on how to hire the best truck accident lawyer in NY.
New York is home to many motorcycle accident lawyers, so it isn't difficult to find one. What is crucial in these cases is to hire a reliable, knowledgeable, and passionate attorney. This is what this article is all about.
When to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
It isn't uncommon to hear about someone who decides to handle a personal injury claim on their own. Many people simply have to negotiate with an insurance company and secure a fair settlement to resolve the case, even out of court. However, a legal proceeding for a motorcycle crash can be more complex.
Motorcycle accident cases can easily escalate, especially when victims sustain serious injuries or insurance companies refuse to pay what claimants truly deserve. In this scenario, it's a good idea to work with a reliable attorney.
A reputable and experienced motorcycle accident lawyer knows how the legal system works and can guide victims through the entire process, protecting their rights and handling tasks that are usually intricate for individuals.
If required, an attorney can also handle negotiations with insurance companies to ensure victims get a fair settlement for their motorcycle accident claims or persuasively present the case to a jury if it must be resolved in court.
In this regard, a trusted attorney can be a great ally for motorcycle crash victims. People who get professional legal representation in these situations often secure better outcomes for themselves and their families.
What a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Do
Experienced motorcycle accident lawyers specialize in personal injury law and can help people who have been harmed or sustained losses in these incidents with the following tasks:
Research the traffic laws that motor vehicle operators, including motorcycle riders, must follow while on the road to help victims understand their legal rights.
Gather evidence, such as accident reports and medical bills, to prove that the other party was responsible for the victims' injuries, damages, and monetary losses.
Handle settlement negotiations with insurance companies to ensure victims receive fair compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, property repairs, and other damages.
Interview potential witnesses to collect valuable testimony that can help build a strong motorcycle accident case.
Deliver notices, file complaints, and handle all the required paperwork while injured people receive medical treatment and focus on their recovery.
Help their clients calculate the current value of their motorcycle accident cases.
Provide legal representation and prove liability before a jury if the case must be resolved through litigation.
How to Hire the Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
As mentioned, there are many motorcycle accident attorneys in New York. To find an experienced and trustworthy one, victims should consider the following:
Finding a Personal Injury Lawyer Who Will Personally Handle The Case
When someone is involved in a motorcycle accident, it's crucial to have an experienced and dedicated attorney by their side. While many law firms advertise personal injury services, many fail to deliver what they promise. Therefore, it's essential to ensure that the lawyer chosen will personally handle the case.
Some of the best motorcycle accident lawyers in Long Island may delegate motorcycle accident cases to paralegals or junior associates. While these professionals can be helpful, they may lack the experience and expertise to handle complex legal matters.
A seasoned attorney, on the other hand, can provide the personalized attention and strategic guidance needed to maximize a client's recovery.
Finding Out If the Lawyer Is Willing to Calculate Damages
It's important for affected individuals to receive guidance from an expert attorney to calculate how much money they can receive as compensation for their motorcycle accident injuries.
Calculating damages in a motorcycle accident case can be complex and time-consuming. It involves assessing medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other factors.
Fortunately, a skilled motorcycle accident attorney can help victims understand the potential value of their claims and fight for the maximum compensation they deserve.
When discussing damages with an attorney, potential clients should ask the following questions:
How will the attorney calculate their medical expenses?
How will the attorney determine their lost wages?
How will the attorney assess their pain and suffering damages?
What factors will the attorney consider when calculating property damage?
Will the attorney work with economic experts to determine the full extent of their client's financial losses?
A lawyer who understands the factors that contribute to damage calculations can help motorcycle accident victims make informed decisions about their cases and maximize the chances of a favorable outcome.
Scheduling a Free Consultation to Assess Communication Skills
Before hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer, it's essential to schedule a free consultation. This initial meeting allows a potential client to assess the attorney's communication skills and determine if they're a good fit for their needs.
During the consultation, victims should pay attention to the following:
Active listening:Â A good lawyer will actively listen to their client's concerns and ask clarifying questions.
Clear explanations:Â Seasoned attorneys should be able to explain complex legal concepts in a way that is easy to understand.
Responsiveness:Â Experienced lawyers should be prompt in responding to their client's questions and concerns.
Empathy and compassion:Â A compassionate attorney will show genuine concern for their client's well-being and offer emotional support.
By evaluating these factors, victims can choose an attorney who will effectively communicate with them throughout the legal process, which is crucial for their peace of mind during such a hard time.
Evaluating the Attorney's Experience in Motorcycle Accident Cases
Experience is a crucial factor when selecting a motorcycle accident lawyer. An attorney with a proven track record in handling motorcycle cases will have a deep understanding of the unique legal challenges involved.
Questions to Ask
When considering an attorney's experience, victims should ask the following questions:
How many motorcycle accident cases has the attorney handled?
What is the attorney's success rate in motorcycle accident cases?
Does the attorney have experience dealing with specific motorcycle accident injuries, such as road rash or traumatic brain injuries?
Is the attorney familiar with the relevant state and federal laws that apply to motorcycle accidents?
Does the attorney have experience working with motorcycle accident reconstruction experts?
Choosing an Attorney Who Is Both Aggressive and Compassionate
A successful motorcycle accident lawyer should possess a balance of aggression and compassion. These professionals should be willing to fight for their client's rights and pursue a favorable outcome while also providing empathy and support throughout the legal process.
Key Qualities in an Attorney
Lawyers are typically seen as cold people, but the truth is that they're willing to fight for people's rights and really care about victims' emotions. When choosing an attorney, a potential client should consider the following:
Aggressive representation:Â A strong advocate will be willing to go to trial if necessary to protect their client's interests.
Effective negotiation skills:Â A skilled negotiator can secure a fair settlement without the need for litigation.
Empathy and understanding:Â A compassionate attorney will listen to their client's concerns and provide emotional support during a difficult time.
Clear communication:Â A dedicated professional will keep their client informed about the progress of their case and answer their questions in a timely manner.
If the attorney they work with possesses these qualities, victims can feel confident that their case is in good hands.
Final Thoughts
Although there are many motorcycle accident attorneys, not all of them have the knowledge and experience necessary to help victims win their cases.
A good attorney should be aggressive but compassionate, understand the legal system, provide comprehensive assistance from day one, and closely work with injured people to protect their best interests.
Find an Experienced New York Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at The Law Office of Carl Maltese!
A motorcycle accident can have terrible consequences on the lives of both victims and their families, but there's an opportunity to seek justice and hold at-fault parties accountable for their negligent or careless actions.
Personal injury law gives motorcycle victims the right to pursue compensation for their injuries, emotional damages, and financial losses. To succeed in the legal process, affected individuals just have to seek professional legal representation.
Is that what you need? If you plan to file a motorcycle accident claim, The Law Office of Carl Maltese is at your service. Our compassionate and experienced team of attorneys is ready to help you build a winning case.
You can schedule a free consultation, speak with one of our New York motorcycle accident attorneys, and get your case reviewed. Contact us today!