No matter what kind of vehicle you are driving, getting in a crash is both regrettable and dangerous. Injuries sustained from collisions on the road can put your life on hold as your body recovers and you scramble to pay for the medical expenses caused by the injury.
Motorcycle and car accidents are two of the most common road accidents resulting in severe injuries and significant property damage. When involved in such accidents, seeking legal representation is essential to protecting your rights, thereby ensuring you receive fair compensation for your losses.
However, it's essential to understand the differences between motorcycle accident attorneys and car accident attorneys to decide which legal expert to choose.
Is hiring the best car accident lawyer after a motorcycle accident good? Of course, a lawyer for a car accident can represent a motorist involved in a crash, but there could be a few things they may not know.
Many people wrongfully assume that a motorcycle accident is handled the same way as a car accident when seeking compensation for injuries. However, a motorcycle accident differs from a car accident and should be handled differently.
This article explores the critical distinctions between the two and highlights what you need to know when facing such unfortunate events.
Specialisation and Expertise
Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Motorcycle accident attorneys specialise in handling cases that involve motorcycle accidents. Due to the unique nature of motorcycle collisions, attorneys in this field have a deep understanding of the challenges faced by motorcyclists on the road, such as their vulnerability to severe injuries, bias from insurance companies, and the potential for other drivers not to notice them. These attorneys are well-versed in every motorcycle accident law and safety regulation, enabling them to build strong cases for their clients.
Car Accident Attorneys
On the other hand, car accident attorneys primarily focus on handling cases related to car crashes and other accidents involving passenger vehicles. They are knowledgeable about traffic laws and insurance regulations concerning automobiles. A car accident lawyer can represent drivers, passengers, and pedestrians who have been injured or suffered property damage due to car accidents.
Understanding of Accident Dynamics
Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Motorcycle accidents tend to be more complex than car accidents due to the inherent risks motorcyclists face. Attorneys specialising in motorcycle accidents thoroughly understand motorcycle accident causes and the unique dynamics involved in these cases, including the role of road conditions, visibility issues, and the impact of protective gear on injuries. Their expertise allows them to identify the liable parties accurately and pursue fair compensation for their clients.
Car Accident Attorneys
While car accidents can also be complex, car accident attorneys may not possess the same insight into motorcyclists' specific challenges. However, they are well-equipped to handle cases involving multiple vehicles, assess liability, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement.
Severity of Injuries
Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Motorcycle accidents naturally result in more severe injuries and damages due to the lack of protection for riders compared to car occupants. A top motorcycle accident lawyer is experienced in dealing with catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and road rash, and understands the long-term implications these injuries can have on a victim's life.
Car Accident Attorneys
Car accident attorneys are familiar with common injuries from car crashes, such as whiplash, fractures, and soft tissue injuries. While they can handle severe cases, their expertise might not be as focused on the specific complexities of motorcycle accident injuries.
Insurance Company Tactics
Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Insurance companies may be more skeptical when dealing with motorcycle accident claims, often assuming higher risks for motorcycle riders. Motorcycle accident attorneys are well informed of the biased tactics used by insurers and are prepared to counter them with solid evidence and persuasive arguments.
Car Accident Attorneys
Insurance companies handling car accident claims may also employ tactics to minimise payouts, which may differ from those used in motorcycle cases. A top car accident attorney is familiar with these strategies and can effectively negotiate to protect their client's interests.
Unfair Prejudice to Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists often face stigmatisation due to the "reckless" behaviour of a few. Many people unfairly consider motorcycles dangerous, and all motorcyclists daredevils who risk their lives for the sheer sake of an adrenaline rush. While this may be true for a few riders, "reckless" motorcyclists are the minority, but the stereotype is often applied to safe riders too.
These unfair prejudices may affect jurors, which is why an experienced motorcycle accident attorney is crucial in a motorcycle accident case. An experienced lawyer handles this bias in two ways:
- They expose biases toward motorcyclists during jury selection to eliminate jurors who may be prejudiced; and
- They show in court that their defendant is a responsible driver
Jurors Require a Basic Understanding of Motorcycles
Most jurors will not have experience with how motorcycles are driven and how riders are supposed to react in situations on the road. To fully understand who is at fault in an accident and discern the degree of responsibility for injury compensation, the jury must have a fundamental knowledge of safe motorcycle driving practices.
For example, a rider knows that speed creates stability on a motorcycle, but the jury may consider speed reckless driving if they are unfamiliar with motorcycling. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney (rather than a car accident attorney) can educate the jury, which may help prove your case.
Conclusion
When faced with the aftermath of a motorcycle or car accident, enlisting the help of an experienced attorney is crucial to secure fair compensation for your losses. Motorcycle and car accident attorneys each bring unique expertise, and your choice of legal representation should align with the specifics of your case. Ultimately, the key is to find a knowledgeable and skilled attorney who can best advocate for your rights and help you navigate the complexities of the legal system.
FAQ
Q: How much does a lawyer cost for a car accident?
A: The cost of hiring a car accident attorney varies depending on several factors, including the attorney's experience, reputation, location, and the case's complexity. Attorneys typically use different fee structures, and the cost can be determined based on one of the following arrangements:
Hourly Rate: Some car accident attorneys charge an hourly rate for their services. The hourly rate can vary significantly depending on factors such as the attorney's experience and the region where they practice law. Hourly rates can go from $100 to $500 per hour.
Contingency Fee: Several car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only receive payment if they successfully recover compensation for their client through a settlement or court award. The attorney's fee is usually a percentage of the total amount recovered, ranging from 25% to 40% of the payment or judgment amount. The specific rate may vary depending on the agreement with the attorney and the complexity of the case.
Discussing the fee structure with the attorney during the initial consultation or before signing any agreements is important. Other expenses related to the case, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, and investigative costs, may also be involved. It's essential to clarify these expenses and any additional costs that may arise during the legal process.
Keep in mind that some car accident attorneys may offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case and discuss their fees. This initial consultation can be an opportunity to inquire about the attorney's fees and better understand the potential costs involved.
Overall, the cost of a car accident attorney will depend on the circumstances of your case and the attorney you choose to hire. It's crucial to find an attorney experienced in handling car accident cases who offers reasonable fees and is transparent about their pricing structure.
Q: Is it worth getting an attorney for a car accident?
A: car accident cases can be complex, and insurance companies often attempt to minimise payouts to accident victims. A car accident attorney can fight to protect your rights, navigate the legal process, gather and compile pieces of evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests to ensure fair compensation for your injuries and other damages, medical expenses and lost wages.
Q: What does a car accident lawyer do?
A: A car accident lawyer is a Personal injury lawyer who handles cases related to car accidents. These attorneys have extensive understanding and specialised skills in the legal framework and regulations of car accidents.
They offer legal assistance to individuals asserting claims of physical or psychological harm from car accidents caused by the negligence of individuals, companies, government agencies, or other entities.
The primary objective of car accident attorneys is to safeguard their client's rights and assist them in obtaining rightful compensation following a car accident. They provide legal expertise, advocacy, and support throughout the legal process, allowing accident victims to focus on their recovery while their case is handled professionally.