New Jersey’s scenic routes, from the Jersey Shore to the winding roads of the Highlands, make it a favorite destination for motorcyclists. However, despite the thrill of the open road, motorcycle accidents are unfortunately common—and often result in serious injuries.
When a crash happens, choosing the right attorney can make a world of difference in the outcome of your case. The New Jersey motorcycle accident lawyers you hire will determine how effectively your rights are protected, how evidence is handled, and how much compensation you can recover.
Before signing any agreement, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure you’re working with an experienced, trustworthy, and dedicated lawyer. Here are the top five questions to ask before hiring a motorcycle accident attorney in New Jersey.
1. How Much Experience Do You Have Handling Motorcycle Accident Cases?
Motorcycle accidents are different from regular car crashes. They often involve more severe injuries, complex liability issues, and unique insurance challenges. You’ll want a lawyer who has extensive experience specifically in motorcycle accident claims—not just general personal injury cases.
Ask your potential lawyer how long they’ve been practicing, how many motorcycle accident cases they’ve handled, and what kinds of results they’ve achieved. An attorney who has successfully represented riders in New Jersey will be familiar with state traffic laws, helmet regulations, and local court systems, giving you a clear advantage.
2. What Is Your Approach to Investigating and Building a Case?
A strong case depends on a thorough investigation. Your attorney should be ready to gather police reports, interview witnesses, examine medical records, and even consult accident reconstruction experts if needed.
Ask about their process:
- Do they visit the accident scene?
- How do they handle evidence collection and preservation?
- What experts or specialists do they typically work with?
A diligent lawyer will take a proactive approach, ensuring every piece of evidence supports your claim and strengthens your negotiating position against insurers.
3. How Do You Handle Communication and Client Updates?
Clear communication is key during any legal process. After a serious accident, you’ll want to know what’s happening with your case without constantly chasing down your attorney for updates.
Ask how often you can expect to hear from them and whether you’ll communicate directly with the attorney or their support staff. Some law firms provide regular progress reports or offer client portals for updates. The best motorcycle accident lawyers are those who prioritize transparency, respond promptly, and make sure you fully understand every step of your case.
4. What Are Your Fees and Payment Structure?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless they win your case. However, it’s important to confirm this and ask about any additional costs, such as filing fees, expert witness expenses, or administrative charges.
Ask questions like
- What percentage of my settlement or verdict will go toward legal fees?
- Am I responsible for any costs if we don’t win?
- Will these expenses be deducted before or after attorney fees?
An attorney will be upfront about their fee structure and provide a written agreement so there are no surprises later.
5. How Do You Handle Insurance Companies?
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, delay settlements, or even shift blame to the injured rider. Your lawyer should have strong negotiation skills and a reputation for standing firm against insurers.
Ask potential lawyers how they approach insurance negotiations and whether they have experience taking cases to trial if fair settlements aren’t offered. The most effective attorneys are not only skilled negotiators but also fearless litigators who are prepared to fight for your rights in court if necessary.
Bonus Tip: Ask for References or Case Results
It’s always wise to ask for references or examples of past cases similar to yours. A confident attorney will gladly share their success stories and client testimonials, giving you insight into their reputation and reliability.
Key Takeaways:
- The right motorcycle accident lawyers should have specialized experience handling motorcycle-related injury cases.
- Always ask about their investigation methods, communication practices, and track record.
- Understand their fee structure before signing any agreement.
- Choose a lawyer who knows how to handle aggressive insurance companies and is willing to take your case to trial if needed.
- Don’t hesitate to request references or case results to confirm their credibility.
