Motorcycle accidents account for less than three percent of all traffic accident fatalities. However, motorcycle injuries and deaths result in a much larger share of overall costs. Motorcyclists face greater harm per collision than other road users because they lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle such as a car or truck. A motorcycle attorney can help protect your rights if you are in an accident.
If you ride a motorcycle, here are some ways to find the right attorney for your needs.
Ask Your Fellow Riders
One way to find out about local attorneys specializing in motorcycle accidents is by asking other riders. Many bikers know which attorneys have experience helping bike owners. An ideal motorcycle accident attorney Seattle-based should take on a case even if there is no personal connection.
Search Online and Look at Lawyers’ Advertising
Several online directories can help you narrow down your choices, depending on where you live and what type of attorney you are looking for. The directories include hundreds of attorneys who have experience representing bicyclists in court. You can search by location and legal issue.
Although it is probably not a good idea to base your decision on commercials or billboards touting an attorney’s experience handling motorcycle accidents, you may find such ads helpful when you are looking for an attorney in a specific area.
Talk to Your Insurance Agent
Your insurance agent may be able to recommend a lawyer. After all, the two of you work closely together, and your agent wants your case to end up in good hands. As part of your policy, you might also have coverage that will pay for a portion of your legal fees, so it might be worth asking for a referral to a lawyer who works with that type of payment plan.
If you know an attorney outside the motorcycle world, ask for a referral from them. If you have friends who ride motorcycles and have been involved in accidents, they might be able to recommend a good lawyer.