Motorcycle accidents are more common than most people think. Each year, thousands of riders are injured or even killed in crashes across the country. In cities like Chicago, where traffic can be heavy and weather unpredictable, riders face even more risks. Because motorcycles offer less protection than cars, even a small accident can lead to serious injuries.
After an accident, riders often face hospital bills, time away from work, and long recovery times. On top of that, dealing with insurance companies can be confusing and stressful. Many people aren’t sure what steps to take next.
Having a lawyer on your side can help take some of the pressure off. A good attorney can explain your rights, deal with the insurance companies, and help you get the money you deserve for your injuries and damage.
Phillips Law Offices is a trusted law firm in Chicago that helps people who have been hurt in accidents. We win most of the cases we take. If you are in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to have someone on your side. No matter if your case is big or small, your Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer will give it the care and respect it needs. Our team will help you get through this tough time and work to make sure you recover as much as possible. We will stand up for you, especially when the insurance company tries to pay you less. To get started call us now at (312) 598-0917.
Understanding the Role of a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
A motorcycle accident attorney helps people who’ve been hurt in a crash. Their main job is to fight for fair compensation for the rider. This can include money for medical bills, bike repairs, lost wages, and pain from the injury.
They also take care of the legal process. This includes filling out paperwork, talking to insurance adjusters, and going to court if needed. Most people don’t know the legal rules or how much their case is worth. That’s where the attorney comes in.
Lawyers also speak for the rider, so they don’t have to deal with pushy insurance companies or confusing legal terms. This gives injured people more time to focus on healing while the attorney handles the rest.
Situations That Require Legal Help
If you’ve been seriously hurt or someone lost their life in a crash, you should call a lawyer. These cases are more complex and often involve bigger settlements. A lawyer can help prove how much damage was done and make sure you’re treated fairly.
If the other driver says you were at fault and you know that’s not true, don’t try to fight it alone. Disputes over who caused the crash can get messy. An attorney knows how to gather proof, like traffic camera footage or witness statements, to help your side.
When more than two vehicles are involved, things get even more complicated. Multiple insurance companies may start pointing fingers at each other. A lawyer can figure out who’s truly responsible and keep your case on track.
Insurance companies often try to offer a small amount of money quickly. If their offer doesn’t seem right, don’t sign anything. Also, if the crash involved a hit-and-run driver or someone without insurance, an attorney can explore other ways to get compensation.
The Right Time to Hire an Attorney
Immediately After Seeking Medical Attention
The best time to contact a lawyer is right after you’ve received medical care. Your health comes first, but don’t wait too long to get legal advice. The sooner you talk to a lawyer, the better your chances are of building a strong case.
Before Giving a Recorded Statement to Insurers
Never give a recorded statement to an insurance company before speaking to an attorney. They may use your words against you later. A lawyer can guide you on what to say and what not to say to protect your claim.
Before Signing Any Settlements
If you’re offered a settlement, it may be tempting to accept it right away. But some injuries don’t show up until days or weeks later. A lawyer can help you understand whether the offer is fair and if it’s the right time to settle.
If injuries Worsen After the Incident
Sometimes an injury that seemed minor gets worse over time. If that happens and you already agreed to a settlement, you can’t go back and ask for more. That’s why it’s smart to talk to a lawyer before making any final decisions.
Benefits of Hiring an Attorney Early
Acting fast means your lawyer can collect important evidence before it disappears. Things like skid marks, damaged helmets, or witness details can all support your case. If you wait too long, that information might be lost.
An experienced attorney knows what your claim is really worth. They’ll consider not just your current bills but also future costs, like rehab or lost income if you can’t work. They’ll make sure no money is left on the table.
Hiring a lawyer early helps protect your rights. Insurance companies might try to take advantage of your lack of experience. With legal help, you’ll have someone looking out for your best interest at every step.
You also avoid common mistakes that could hurt your case. A lawyer knows the legal rules and deadlines. This way, you won’t miss important dates or sign something that limits your ability to get full compensation.
Common Mistakes Riders Make Without Legal Help
One big mistake riders make is accepting the first offer from the insurance company. These offers are usually much lower than what the case is worth. Once you accept it, you can’t ask for more money later.
Another problem is when people say something that sounds like they’re admitting fault, even if they didn’t cause the crash. For example, saying “I’m sorry” might be used against you. A lawyer will guide you on what to say and avoid this.
Missing deadlines is also a big issue. There’s a time limit for filing a claim or lawsuit. If you wait too long, you could lose your chance completely, no matter how strong your case is.
These mistakes can cost you thousands of dollars. But with the right attorney, you can avoid them and give yourself the best chance at a fair outcome.
How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Chicago
Experience With Motorcycle Crash Cases
Look for a lawyer who has worked on motorcycle accident cases before. These cases are different from regular car accidents, and you want someone who understands the risks and injuries riders face.
Reputation and Reviews
Check their reputation. Online reviews from past clients can give you a good idea of how the lawyer treats people and how successful they are. A lawyer with positive feedback is usually someone you can trust.
Success Rate
Success rate matters too. Ask the attorney how many similar cases they’ve won. This can give you confidence that they’ll be able to help you with your case as well.
Contingency Fees Explained
Most lawyers work on a “contingency fee” basis. That means they only get paid if you win. You don’t have to pay anything upfront, which makes it easier to get legal help even if you don’t have money right now.
What if the accident seems minor?
Even if the crash doesn’t seem serious at first, injuries can show up later. What looks like a small bump or bruise might become a bigger problem. Talking to a lawyer can help you understand if your case is worth pursuing.
How much does it cost to hire a lawyer?
Most motorcycle accident lawyers don’t charge anything unless they win your case. Their fee comes from a percentage of the money you receive. This means there’s no risk in getting legal help early.
Can I handle it alone with insurance?
You can try, but insurance companies often offer less when there’s no lawyer involved. They have experts working for them, and without someone on your side, it’s easy to get shortchanged. A lawyer helps even the playing field.
Contact Top Rated Chicago Motorcycle Accident Attorney at Phillips Law Offices
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait to get help. Our team at Phillips Law Offices knows how to handle tough cases and fight for injured riders.
We’ve helped people across Chicago get the compensation they deserve after serious crashes. Whether it’s a minor injury or a life-changing event, we take every case seriously.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your rights, and let you know how we can help. There’s no pressure and no upfront cost — just honest answers and real support.
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