So you just got in a motorcycle accident. Ugh, first off—sorry, that sucks. On top of everything hurting, now you’re dodging calls from insurance adjusters and your bike looks like toast. Forget doing this alone, right? You need someone who knows the ropes (and probably rides too).

But here’s the rub: Not every “motorcycle accident lawyer” is actually up to the job. Some are just chasing ambulances for a quick buck. Here’s what actually matters when you’re shopping for a lawyer who’ll fight your corner—not just cash your check.

WHY BOTHER HIRING A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER?

You might think you can handle the paperwork and calls yourself, but insurance companies are basically trained to nickel-and-dime people who don’t have lawyers. Seriously—they’re not your friends, and they’ll lowball you at every turn. A real motorcycle accident attorney knows all these tricks, and they shut it down fast. Plus, every state’s got its own weird set of rules about motorcycle accidents. You need someone who knows their stuff cold. Less stress for you, too. Let them wrangle with the paperwork while you worry about moving your arms again.

HOW DO YOU PICK THE RIGHT LAWYER?

EXPERIENCE, ALL THE WAY

Picture this: You hire some generic personal injury guy who’s never swung a leg over a bike. He’s probably clueless about lane-splitting, helmet laws, or why bikers always get blamed. Bad idea. You want someone who actually specializes in motorcycle crashes—bonus points if they ride! Ask about their wins, cases settled, and check if they actually know the law, not just how to Google things.

WHAT DO OTHER PEOPLE SAY?

Would you eat at a restaurant with zero reviews? No. Same deal here. Check what past clients have to say—Google, Avvo, even lawyer-rating places like Martindale-Hubbell. Ask your biker friends (if you don’t have any… get some, honestly). Find out who’s actually good at their job.

CONTINGENCY FEES: NO WIN? NO BILL.

The decent lawyers work on a “we only get paid if we win” deal. Make sure you’re crystal clear about the percentage they’ll take—usually somewhere between 25-40% (ouch, but better than nothing). Ask about surprise fees too—nobody likes that “Oh by the way, pay us for postage and FAXES” nonsense.

COMMUNICATION MATTERS, DON’T GET GHOSTED

If your lawyer never calls back, run. Honestly, you want someone who actually answers emails, calls, even texts if you’re lucky. Plus—are you getting the real lawyer or just some fresh-outta-law-school intern? Ask upfront.

THEY SHOULD KNOW HOW TO THROW DOWN IN COURT

Sure, most of these cases settle before court, but you want a lawyer who can get nasty if it comes to that. Ask if they’ve ever actually done a trial, or if they just cave every time an insurance company blinks. If they’ve never seen a courtroom? Probably not your person.

ARE THEY HONEST?

A trustworthy lawyer won’t promise you a six-figure payout before they’ve even looked at your case. If they’re talking a big game and won’t explain their process? Red flag. You want someone real and upfront—even if the news isn’t what you want to hear.

THE SHORT LIST: QUESTIONS TO GRILL YOUR POTENTIAL LAWYER

  • How many motorcycle cases have you worked?
  • What’s your win/loss record?
  • Are there any upfront costs to me? (Hint: Look for contingency.)
  • How long do these things usually take?
  • How will you keep me in the loop?

RED FLAGS (AKA “RUN, DON’T WALK”)

  • 🚩 Tons of one-star reviews or weird complaints online
  • 🚩 No court experience, at all
  • 🚩 Fees that are confusing as hell, or dotted with fine print
  • 🚩 If it sounds too good to be true, it definitely is
BOTTOM LINE

Picking the right motorcycle accident lawyer is maybe the most important thing you’ll do if you want to see any money after your crash. Do your research, ask around, and don’t be afraid to have a few meetings before you decide. The right lawyer actually lets you heal—instead of worrying about paperwork hell or getting steamrolled by insurance goons. Just don’t settle for less, okay? You’ve been through enough.