Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Virginia Beach: When You Need Legal Help

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Motorcycle accidents can be life-changing events that cause serious injuries and financial hardship for victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in Virginia Beach, you need the help of an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who can fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. Read on to find out everything you need to know about motorcycle accident lawyers in Virginia Beach and how to choose the right attorney for your case.

Introduction: What is a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?

Motorcycle accident lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in handling cases involving motorcycle accidents. They help victims of motorcycle accidents recover compensation for their injuries, lost wages, and other damages caused by the accident, including property damage, pain and suffering, and medical bills.

In Virginia Beach, motorcycle accident lawyers are familiar with the state’s traffic laws and regulations, as well as the local court system. They use their knowledge and experience to negotiate with insurance companies and seek a fair settlement for their clients. If necessary, they can also take cases to court and argue on behalf of their clients in front of a judge and jury.

When you hire a motorcycle accident lawyer, you get the benefit of their expertise and resources, including accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other legal professionals who can help build a strong case on your behalf. They can also help you navigate the complex legal process and avoid common pitfalls that could derail your case.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Virginia Beach, it’s crucial to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your options and start building your case.

What Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Do?

Motorcycle accident lawyers perform a wide range of tasks to help their clients recover compensation after a motorcycle accident. Here are some of the most common things that a motorcycle accident lawyer might do:

Investigate the Accident

The first thing that a motorcycle accident lawyer will do is investigate the accident to determine what happened, who was at fault, and what damages were incurred. This investigation might include interviewing witnesses, analyzing police reports, reviewing medical records, and consulting with accident reconstruction experts to reconstruct the accident scene.

Negotiate with Insurance Companies

After gathering evidence and building a case, a motorcycle accident lawyer will then negotiate with the insurance company representing the at-fault driver to seek a fair settlement for their client. This process may involve back-and-forth negotiations and may take several months to complete.

File a Lawsuit

If negotiations with the insurance company fail to produce a satisfactory settlement, a motorcycle accident lawyer may file a lawsuit on behalf of their client. This involves filing a complaint with the court, serving the defendant with legal papers, and gathering evidence to support their case.

Prepare for Trial

If a lawsuit is filed, the motorcycle accident lawyer will then work to prepare for trial. This may include deposing witnesses, reviewing evidence, and preparing arguments to present in court.

Represent Their Client in Court

If the case does go to trial, the motorcycle accident lawyer will represent their client in court, presenting evidence and arguments to a judge or jury to seek a favorable verdict.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Hiring a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

While there are many benefits to hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer to handle your case, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. Here are some of the pros and cons of working with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Virginia Beach:

Advantages

Expertise and Experience

One of the most significant advantages of working with a motorcycle accident lawyer is their expertise and experience in handling these types of cases. They know the law, the local court system, and the tactics that insurance companies use to avoid paying compensation to victims. They can use this knowledge to build a strong case on your behalf and recover the maximum amount of compensation possible.

Access to Resources

Motorcycle accident lawyers have access to a wide range of resources that can help build a strong case on your behalf. This might include accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other legal professionals who can provide expert testimony or assist with negotiations.

Potential for Higher Compensation

Motorcycle accident lawyers know how to negotiate with insurance companies and seek a fair settlement that covers all of your damages, including lost wages, medical bills, property damage, and pain and suffering. In some cases, this may result in a higher compensation award than you would receive on your own.

Disadvantages

Cost

One of the biggest drawbacks of working with a motorcycle accident lawyer is the cost. Most lawyers charge a percentage of the compensation they recover on your behalf, which can be as high as 40 percent in some cases. This can add up to a significant amount, especially if your case goes to trial.

Lengthy Process

The process of recovering compensation after a motorcycle accident can be lengthy and time-consuming. It may take several months to negotiate a settlement with the insurance company, and if your case goes to trial, it could take even longer. This can be frustrating and stressful for victims who are trying to move on from the accident.

Table: Virginia Beach Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Comparison

Law Firm	Experience	Location	Types of Cases Handled	Fee Structure
Johnson Law	20+ years	Virginia Beach	Motorcycle accidents, car accidents, truck accidents, slip and fall accidents	Contingency fee: 33.3%
Smith and Jones Law	10+ years	Virginia Beach	Motorcycle accidents, car accidents, medical malpractice, wrongful death	Contingency fee: 30%
Davis Law Firm	15+ years	Virginia Beach	Motorcycle accidents, car accidents, truck accidents, dog bites	Contingency fee: 35%

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Virginia Beach

1. What does a motorcycle accident lawyer do?

A motorcycle accident lawyer helps victims of motorcycle accidents recover compensation for their injuries, lost wages, and other damages caused by the accident, including property damage, pain and suffering, and medical bills.

2. How much does a motorcycle accident lawyer cost?

Most motorcycle accident lawyers charge a percentage of the compensation they recover on behalf of their clients, typically between 33.3% and 40%.

3. How much compensation can I expect to receive after a motorcycle accident?

The amount of compensation you can receive after a motorcycle accident depends on a variety of factors, including the severity of your injuries, the circumstances of the accident, and the insurance coverage of the at-fault driver.

4. How long does it take to settle a motorcycle accident case?

The length of time it takes to settle a motorcycle accident case varies depending on the complexity of the case, the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate, and the need for a trial. In general, it can take several months to negotiate a settlement and up to a year or more if the case goes to trial.

5. What should I look for in a motorcycle accident lawyer?

When choosing a motorcycle accident lawyer, you should look for someone with experience handling these types of cases, a good track record of success, and a fee structure that works for you.

6. Should I accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer?

No, you should not accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer without consulting with a motorcycle accident lawyer. Insurance companies often offer low settlement amounts initially to see if the victim will accept them, but a lawyer can help negotiate a better settlement.

7. What if I can’t afford a motorcycle accident lawyer?

Many motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they only get paid if they recover compensation for their clients. If you can’t afford a lawyer upfront, you may be able to find one who will work on a contingency basis.

8. Can I represent myself in a motorcycle accident case?

While it is possible to represent yourself in a motorcycle accident case, it is not recommended. The legal process can be complex and confusing, and insurance companies often take advantage of unrepresented victims. Working with a motorcycle accident lawyer can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation.

9. What if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own insurance policy if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you navigate this process and seek the compensation you deserve.

10. How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Virginia Beach?

In Virginia Beach, the statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident. It’s important to act quickly and contact a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected.

11. What if I was partially at fault for the motorcycle accident?

Even if you were partially at fault for the motorcycle accident, you may still be able to recover compensation for your injuries and damages. Virginia follows the contributory negligence doctrine, which means that if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, you may not be able to recover any compensation. However, a motorcycle accident lawyer can help argue your case and seek a fair settlement or verdict.

12. What if I don’t want to go to court?

Many motorcycle accident cases are settled out of court through negotiations with the insurance company. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may need to go to court. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help prepare your case for trial and represent you in court if necessary.

13. How do I find a good motorcycle accident lawyer in Virginia Beach?

You can find a good motorcycle accident lawyer in Virginia Beach by asking for referrals from friends and family, searching online for reviews and ratings, and contacting the Virginia State Bar Association for a referral to a qualified lawyer in your area.

Conclusion: Get the Legal Help You Need After a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcycle accidents can be devastating events that cause serious injuries and financial hardship for victims and their families. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Virginia Beach, it’s crucial to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your options and start building your case.

A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and seek a fair settlement or verdict on your behalf. With their expertise and resources, you can recover the compensation you need to move on from the accident and start rebuilding your life.

Don’t wait – contact a motorcycle accident lawyer in Virginia Beach today to get the legal help you need.

Closing: Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The contents of this article are not a substitute for the advice of a qualified motorcycle accident lawyer. Action should not be taken based on this article without consulting with a qualified legal professional.