Motorcycle accidents are becoming more common, especially in busy cities. With more cars, trucks, and bikes on the road, the chances of accidents go up. Motorcyclists are more exposed than drivers in cars, which means even a small crash can lead to serious injuries.
That’s why having the right help after an accident is so important. A good lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you get the money you need for your recovery. Without one, you could end up with bills you can’t afford or a settlement that doesn’t cover your losses.
If you or someone close to you has been in a motorcycle accident, getting the right legal support is essential to secure the compensation needed to rebuild your life.
Phillips Law Offices specializes in helping motorcycle accident victims by providing skilled legal representation and personalized guidance throughout the process. As one of Illinois’ top personal injury law firms, we serve nearly every city in the state, making it likely that a Phillips Law Offices attorney is available near you to assist with your case.
Here, we’ll walk you through why you need a lawyer, what to look for, and what steps to take after an accident. We’ll also show you how to spot red flags and why choosing the right law firm can make a big difference.
Why Do I Need a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
Understanding the Law
Traffic laws aren’t always simple. There are rules about who has the right of way, how accidents are judged, and what happens if both people share blame. These laws can be hard to understand if you’re not used to them.
A motorcycle accident lawyer knows these rules well. They can explain how the law applies to your case and help protect your rights. They also make sure no one takes advantage of you during the legal process.
Having someone who knows the law means you won’t miss out on something important. A good lawyer will look at every detail and help build a strong case for you.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies don’t always play fair. Their job is to pay as little as possible, even if you’re the one who got hurt. They might delay things, offer low settlements, or try to blame you.
That’s where a lawyer steps in. A motorcycle accident attorneys knows these tactics and won’t fall for them. They’ll talk to the insurance company for you and push for the amount you truly deserve.
This helps take the stress off your shoulders. While you focus on getting better, your lawyer will fight for a fair deal behind the scenes.
Proving Liability
To win your case, you have to prove that the other person caused the crash. That means collecting things like photos, witness statements, and the police report. Sometimes, this also means working with experts who can explain how the accident happened.
Lawyers know what kind of proof is needed and how to get it. They can track down camera footage, talk to experts, and make sure nothing is missed. This gives your case a much better chance.
Without the right evidence, you might lose out—even if the crash wasn’t your fault. A lawyer makes sure everything is backed up with facts.
Maximizing Compensation
You might think your only loss is the hospital bill, but it’s often more than that. You could miss work, need long-term care, or deal with pain and stress for months or years. All of that should be included in your claim.
A lawyer makes sure every cost is counted. They’ll look at your current bills, talk to doctors about future needs, and even factor in emotional stress. That way, you get the full amount you’re owed.
This can mean the difference between just getting by and truly recovering without worry.
What to Look for in a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Medical Expenses
The right lawyer will understand how expensive medical care can be. From emergency treatment to physical therapy, these costs add up fast. Some injuries may even need treatment years down the line.
A lawyer who understands this will make sure your settlement covers all of it—not just your current bills. They’ll work with doctors and experts to estimate future costs too.
This way, you won’t be left paying out of pocket after your case is closed.
Experience in Motorcycle Accident Cases
Motorcycle crashes are different from car accidents. The injuries are often more serious, and the way accidents happen is unique. That’s why a lawyer who focuses on motorcycle cases is usually better than one who handles all types of personal injury.
They understand the specific risks riders face, how to deal with unfair stereotypes, and how to explain the facts clearly. They also know the most common mistakes drivers make around motorcycles.
This experience can help your case move faster and lead to a better outcome.
Local Knowledge
Every city has its own traffic patterns and court systems. A lawyer who knows your area understands which roads are dangerous, which judges are tough, and how local insurance companies operate.
This gives them an edge when building your case. They’ll know which details matter most and how to present your claim in the best way.
Choosing someone local can save time and improve your chances of winning.
Reputation
A lawyer’s reputation says a lot. Look for reviews from past clients, awards they’ve won, or recognition from trusted legal groups. Good lawyers often have strong word-of-mouth in the community.
You can also ask around or check online to see what others say. If lots of people had a good experience, you’re more likely to as well.
A strong reputation means they’ve done right by others—and will probably do the same for you.
Resources
Winning a case takes more than just a good argument. Sometimes, you need experts to analyze how the crash happened or explain how an injury will affect your life. These experts cost money.
A well-equipped law firm will already have access to investigators, medical professionals, and crash experts. They’ll use these resources to make your case stronger.
This support can be a big reason why some cases succeed while others don’t.
Communication Skills
You don’t want to be left in the dark. A good lawyer will keep you updated, answer your questions, and give you honest advice—no sugarcoating, no confusing legal words.
They should explain each step clearly so you feel confident in what’s happening. This makes the process less stressful and more manageable.
If someone is hard to reach or avoids giving straight answers, that’s usually a bad sign.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
After a crash, your health comes first. Call 911 right away and get medical help—even if you think you’re okay. Some injuries show up later, and it’s important to have a doctor check you out.
You’ll also need to report the accident to the police. Their report is a key piece of evidence later on. While you wait, take photos of the scene if you can—bike damage, injuries, road signs, or anything else that might help.
Avoid saying things like “I’m sorry” or taking blame, even if you feel bad. What you say could be used against you. Then, as soon as possible, contact a lawyer who handles motorcycle crashes.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Distracted Driving
Many drivers look at their phones, eat, or talk while behind the wheel. These distractions mean they don’t always see motorcycles in time. Since bikes are smaller, they’re often missed until it’s too late.
Even a quick glance away can cause a serious crash. Motorcyclists usually have little time to react.
This is one of the top reasons for motorcycle accidents.
Speeding
When drivers go too fast, they have less time to stop or change direction. Crashes at high speeds are usually much more dangerous, especially for people on motorcycles.
Speeding makes it harder to judge distance and control the vehicle. For bikers, that can mean more serious injuries, even in what would’ve been a minor accident.
It’s a common problem on highways and even in neighborhoods.
Failure to Yield
Sometimes drivers don’t see a motorcycle or assume they have the right of way when they don’t. This often happens when cars turn left across traffic or merge without checking their blind spots.
These mistakes can cause crashes that are hard for riders to avoid. Even if the biker is doing everything right, they can still get hit.
This kind of accident happens more often than people think.
Drunk Driving
Alcohol affects reaction time, judgment, and coordination. Drunk drivers are a major risk to everyone on the road, especially motorcyclists.
Accidents involving drunk drivers tend to cause more serious injuries or even death. They also often lead to criminal charges.
If you’re hit by a drunk driver, a lawyer can help make sure they’re held fully responsible.
Poor Road Conditions
Motorcycles are more sensitive to road issues like potholes, gravel, or loose pavement. These things might be a small bump to a car, but they can cause a biker to lose control.
City maintenance problems or unclear road signs also lead to crashes. In some cases, the city or road authority may be at fault.
A lawyer can look into this and see if there’s another party who should be held responsible.
Defective Equipment
Sometimes, accidents happen because of problems with the bike itself. This could be a faulty brake, tire blowout, or even something the manufacturer should have fixed.
When that happens, the blame might not fall on another driver—it could fall on a company or mechanic.
Lawyers know how to investigate and find out who’s really at fault.
Types of Compensation Available
Medical Expenses
You can get money for all the medical care related to your accident. That includes hospital stays, surgeries, medication, therapy, and future treatments you might need.
This helps you recover without having to worry about massive bills. If your injuries are long-term, your lawyer can work with doctors to estimate what you’ll need going forward.
All of that should be part of your compensation.
Lost Wages
If you miss work after the accident, you can ask for payment for the money you didn’t earn. If you can’t return to your old job or work at all, that can be included too.
A lawyer will help calculate your current and future income loss. They’ll also include things like missed promotions or training opportunities.
This helps protect your financial future.
Pain and Suffering
Not all damage is physical. Many people deal with stress, anxiety, or depression after a crash. Chronic pain or the loss of enjoyment in life also count.
Lawyers know how to explain this part of your claim so it’s taken seriously. They’ll gather medical notes, therapy records, or expert opinions.
It’s hard to put a price on pain—but it deserves to be recognized.
Property Damage
Your motorcycle and gear might be totaled or badly damaged. You can get money to repair or replace them. This includes your helmet, jacket, and anything else that was damaged in the crash.
Your lawyer will help you get fair value—not just the cheapest offer from insurance.
Punitive Damages
If the person who caused your crash acted in a dangerous or reckless way, like drunk driving or speeding through red lights, you may be able to ask for extra money.
This is called punitive damages, and it’s meant to punish bad behavior. Not all cases qualify, but a lawyer can tell you if yours does.
Where to Start Your Search for a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
The first step is to look online using simple search terms like “motorcycle accident lawyer near me.” Google will show you local options, maps, and reviews, making it easier to find someone close by. Make sure to check if the lawyer has experience specifically with motorcycle cases, not just general personal injury.
Legal directories such as Avvo, FindLaw, and Justia are also useful tools. These websites list lawyers based on their practice areas, reviews, and credentials. You can compare profiles, see how long they’ve been practicing, and read what previous clients have said about their experience.
Don’t forget to visit individual law firm websites. Many firms display their successful case results, lawyer bios, and testimonials. This can help you decide if the firm feels like a good fit for your situation. Look for clear information and experience related to motorcycle crashes.
Another great source is your own community. Ask friends, family, or co-workers if they’ve ever worked with a good motorcycle accident lawyer. Local online forums, neighborhood Facebook groups, or even Reddit can be helpful places to get real recommendations from people nearby.
Questions to Ask a Potential Lawyer
Before choosing a lawyer, it’s smart to ask direct and clear questions. Start by asking, “Do you specialize in motorcycle accident cases?” You want someone who has handled cases like yours before, not just general car crashes or slip-and-fall accidents.
Ask about their track record. A good question is, “What’s your success rate in cases like mine?” A confident and experienced lawyer will be happy to share how many cases they’ve won and how much they’ve helped clients recover.
Next, make sure you understand how they charge. Ask, “What is your fee structure?” Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win. But it’s important to know exactly how much they’ll take and if there are any extra costs.
Communication matters too. Ask, “How often will we talk during my case?” and “Can I speak to past clients?” You need someone who will keep you updated and explain things clearly. Speaking to past clients can give you a real sense of what to expect from the lawyer and their team.
Warning Signs to Watch Out For
Not every lawyer is a good choice. If someone has a confusing or pushy fee structure, that’s a red flag. You should always understand how much you’ll owe and when, without being pressured into signing anything on the spot.
Be careful with lawyers who don’t have specific experience with motorcycle accidents. Just because someone handles injury cases doesn’t mean they know the unique details of motorcycle law. If they can’t explain how they’ve helped similar clients, consider looking elsewhere.
Watch for poor reviews or no reviews at all. A solid lawyer should have feedback from former clients. If there’s a lack of online presence, or the reviews mention bad communication or poor results, take it as a warning.
Lastly, beware of anyone who promises too much. No lawyer can guarantee a big payout or a fast result. Real professionals will give you an honest idea of what’s possible, not make bold claims just to get your case.
Why Choose Phillips Law Offices for Your Motorcycle Accident Case?
If you’re in Chicago and need a trusted motorcycle accident lawyer, Phillips Law Offices is a strong option. We bring more than 75 years of combined legal experience, which means we’ve seen a wide range of cases and know how to handle tough situations.
Our team focuses specifically on motorcycle crash cases. We understand the injuries, know how to investigate these kinds of accidents, and are ready to fight for the full amount you deserve. That kind of deep experience matters when your health and finances are on the line.
Being based in Chicago gives them a local advantage. We’re familiar with the city’s traffic patterns, court system, and even the tactics insurance companies use in the area. That kind of local knowledge can make a big difference in your case.
Finally, We put clients first. You get professional, respectful treatment, and they only get paid if you win. That means we’re motivated to work hard for you. Plus, the first consultation is free, so you can talk to us and decide if we’re the right fit without any pressure.
If you’re looking for a motorcycle accident lawyer nearby, Phillips Law Offices can help. Reach out to us today for a free case evaluation. Our team will look into your case, explain things clearly, and help you understand and go through the legal process.
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