As a motorcycle accident victim, it is wise to seek experienced legal representation if you have suffered injury. A motorcycle accident lawyer will manage every aspect of your case while you get better. Knowing what to expect during the process can give you peace of mind as you heal. Read on to learn what it will be like to work with counsel.
The First Meeting: What to Prepare and Discuss
The first meeting with your attorney, which is typically free, is a chance for your attorney to provide you with a preliminary review of your case. As such, the more information you have, the more information your attorney can give you.
Information in the form of documents is extremely helpful for attorneys. Before your first meeting, you will want to gather and organize as many of the following documents as possible:
- Medical treatment and care paperwork (tests, charts, paperwork, forms)
- Work schedule and income information
- Insurance information
- Personal journal or diary detailing your struggles with your injury
- Police and accident reports
- Driver’s record
Once your attorney reviews your case and determines that you have a valid claim, they will help you understand what comes next and roughly explain what you can expect in terms of payment and timeline.
As a claimant, you are strongly urged to make a list of questions before your meeting. Your attorney will be more than happy to answer any inquiries and clear up any confusing points.
The Role of a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
The main role of a motorcycle accident attorney is as an advocate for their clients’ injuries and losses. Effective attorneys aggressively pursue maximum compensation so their clients can get relief from the pain and losses they have experienced.
Throughout this process, your attorney will act as a protector of your rights as well, ensuring that you are compensated to the full extent of the law.
From the beginning, your motorcycle accident lawyer will take control and pursue compensation on your behalf. They will engage in and accomplish numerous tasks that are essential to the success of your case, including:
- Filing all legal paperwork
- Meeting claim deadlines
- Investigating the accident
- Consulting with expert witnesses
- Calculating damages
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Litigating on your behalf when necessary
Unfortunately, many victims go through the compensation process without a motorcycle accident lawyer and find themselves with far less money than they should.
Knowledge of Texas Motorcycle Laws and Regulations
One of the main reasons to hire a motorcycle accident attorney is for their knowledge of Texas motorcycle laws and regulations. These laws and regulations are strict, detailed, and unforgiving. Running afoul of their provisions could lead to an outright loss of compensation.
Experienced motorcycle accident lawyers possess a legal agility that allows them to confidently navigate the plethora of rules and regulations and win cases on behalf of their clients.
Communication Throughout the Legal Process
Having a motorcycle accident attorney represent you is great if they win. However, if they do not communicate with you throughout the legal process, you might feel alienated and begin to take on some stress. Because of this, experienced attorneys keep their clients in the loop by communicating with them regularly.
Ultimately, you, as the client, are in charge of your case. You decide what legal action to take next or whether to accept or reject an offer. Seasoned attorneys know that having their clients close and informed ensures that the client gets what they need and deserve.
How an Attorney Can Advocate for You
An attorney can advocate for you by aggressively pursuing the damages you have incurred at every stage. From the beginning of the compensation process, your attorney will be doing everything reasonably possible to get you the damages you deserve, including:
- Handling all communications on your behalf
- Consulting with financial and medical experts about your future needs
- Holding insurance companies accountable with hard proof of liability
Your attorney can also advocate for you at trial or during alternative dispute resolution procedures. In every case, you can expect them to do whatever is reasonably necessary to win your case and protect your rights.
FAQ
Is There a Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Cases in Texas?
Yes. Motorcycle accident victims have a two-year statute of limitations to take legal action. The clock starts on the date of the accident. Minors, however, may have until their 20th birthday.
Might My Case Go to Trial?
Likely not. Most traffic accident cases never see the inside of a courtroom. If your case does go to trial, however, your attorney will diligently represent you in pursuit of fair compensation.
Does Texas Have a Motorcycle Helmet Law?
Yes. Texas has a motorcycle helmet law. Riders under the age of 21 must wear helmets. Riders 21 and older must wear helmets as well if they are uninsured or have not taken a qualifying motorcycle safety course.
Riders are strongly encouraged to use a helmet whenever possible to help avoid catastrophic accidents and injuries. Although not wearing a helmet does not bar you from seeking compensation, it can lead to a reduction in the compensation you receive.
Safeguarding Your Right to Compensation and Your Future
Ultimately, a motorcycle accident attorney’s job is to protect your right to compensation so that you have the funds you deserve for the future. If you have been injured while on a motorcycle, you deserve more than the subpar compensation offered by insurance companies.
You deserve full compensation to address your pain and losses. Ramsey Law Group is here to help you get it. Call for a free consultation today.
