When To Engage a Lawyer Following a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents are never a pleasant experience, whether you're the owner of the motorbike or if someone you care about has been directly involved. There's a whole other side to the aftermath of an accident, from navigating insurance claims to ensuring you get the proper medical attention.
If another driver's carelessness was the reason for the accident, the situation can be stressful, life-changing, and tough to deal with––especially if you're seriously injured. So when should you consult a lawyer? This post aims to shed light on this important question, offering guidance for those unfortunate enough to find themselves in such a situation.
Possibility of a Court Trial
Engaging a lawyer when you suspect a possible court trial is crucial for several reasons. First, the legal system is often complex and filled with intricate subtleties that may be challenging for a layperson to understand and navigate.
Lawyers who understand motorcycle accidents understand the nuances of the legal system, including procedures, protocols, and legal terminologies. They can provide invaluable guidance and counsel, ensuring you get the outcome and compensation you deserve.
In addition, lawyers bring special negotiation skills and experience that can be pivotal in ensuring an equitable resolution. Often, parties to a lawsuit will attempt to settle the matter outside of court to avoid a trial. But sometimes, a trial can resolve a dispute in your favor.
For example, if you feel that the other party's offer is too low, your lawyer can represent you in court and present a compelling legal argument to maximize the amount of compensation you receive. They can objectively assess the value of your claim, factoring in elements like medical expenses, loss of income, long-term disability, and chronic pain.
Based on how well they present the facts of the case, the judge or jury will be more likely to award you the damages you deserve. This is perhaps the most important reason to hire a good lawyer to represent you since the outcome of the case could be much more favorable when you have a qualified legal expert on your side.
Risk of the Settlement Expiring
A looming expiration of a settlement offer is another critical situation where a lawyer's expertise is essential following a motorcycle accident. Insurance companies typically prefer to settle quickly, often offering a sum upfront.
However, they will often add a clause that states the offer is only valid for a certain amount of time. If you don't accept the settlement offer by the designated date, the offer may be rescinded or significantly reduced. In such circumstances, a motorcycle accident lawyer can play an instrumental role.
Sometimes, it's difficult to know if you should accept an offer, as it often takes time for the full impact of a motorcycle accident to become clear. When you consult a lawyer, you can be confident in your decision about accepting the settlement offer before it expires and prevent yourself from accepting a settlement that undervalues your claim.
A lawyer can engage in adept negotiations on your behalf to secure a better offer or advise you on the best course of action if the offer is inadequate, such as proceeding to litigation. This will help you avoid panic decisions and ensure you get the compensation you're rightfully entitled to.
The law is there to protect you and give you some sense of justice. Don't make a motorcycle accident claim without knowing all your rights. Talk to us at the Law Office of Robert P Karwin and get the best possible outcome from your claim. We offer in-depth consultations and case evaluations to help you understand the legal process and ensure you get compensation that reflects your suffering.
This publication is for informational purposes only. It does not establish and attorney-client relationship and should not be taken as legal advice.
