Common Myths About Motorcycle Crash Lawyers

TL;DR – Key Takeaways

If you are hurting and short on time, here is what you need to know right now:

• Not all lawyers are riders. A general personal injury attorney might not understand the physics of a bike crash or the bias against riders. You need a motorcycle crash lawyer who specializes in these cases.
• You can afford high-quality help. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay zero upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.
• Insurance companies are not on your side. Adjusters are trained to save money, not to pay you what your future care actually costs.
• Don't assume you are at fault. Even if the police report looks bad initially, a deeper investigation often proves the driver violated your right-of-way.

You know the feeling. You are out on the road, throttle in hand, mind clear, just enjoying the ride. Then everything changes in a split second. Maybe a driver turned left right in front of you or merged into your lane without looking. Suddenly you are lying on the asphalt and your bike is sliding down the highway.

The physical pain is bad enough, but the headache that follows can be even worse. You have medical bills piling up and missed shifts at work. Then the insurance adjusters start calling. They sound friendly, but you get the feeling they are not really on your side. Friends and family might offer advice, but a lot of it is based on hearsay or bad information.

I have heard it all in my years as a motorcycle injury lawyer at Metier Law Firm. As someone who rides, I know how independent we tend to be. We like to handle things ourselves. But relying on the wrong information after a motorcycle accident can hurt your recovery and your personal injury claim. Let's look at the myths that keep riders from getting the help they deserve.

Myth: Any Lawyer Can Handle a Bike Case

Most people think a lawyer is a lawyer. They assume that if someone handles car wrecks, they can handle a bike wreck just as well. That is a dangerous assumption.

Our team at Metier Motorcycle Lawyers knows that cars and motorcycles operate differently. The physics are different. The injuries are different. A general practice attorney might not know how to explain counter-steering to a jury or how grooved pavement affects a bike's stability.

A motorcycle crash lawyer knows these nuances because we ride. We understand that when a car driver claims they "didn't see you," it is usually a failure of their attention, not your visibility. We know how to counter the bias that many jurors and adjusters have against riders. When you hire a specialist, you get someone who speaks the language of the road.

Myth: Lawyers Are Too Expensive

This is probably the biggest reason injured riders hesitate to call us. You are already worried about money because you are out of work. The idea of paying a massive retainer fee seems impossible.

Here is the reality. Most reputable motorcycle injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay us a dime out of your pocket upfront. We cover the costs of investigating the crash, hiring experts, and filing the paperwork. We only get paid if we win your case and recover money for you.

If we don't win, you don't pay legal fees. This system levels the playing field and allows you to hire top-tier legal talent without putting your own finances at risk.

Myth: The Insurance Company Will Be Fair

We all want to believe that insurance companies are there to help us when things go wrong. Their commercials certainly make it seem that way. But at the end of the day, an insurance company is a business focused on profit.

Adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They might act sympathetic on the phone and tell you they want to "settle this quickly to get you some money." What they are often doing is trying to get you to accept a low offer before you realize how serious your injuries are.

Once you sign a release for a settlement, your personal injury claim is usually over. You cannot go back for more money later if you need surgery or cannot return to work. A motorcycle injury lawyer stands between you and the adjuster to make sure you do not get shortchanged.

Myth: It Was Probably My Fault Anyway

There is a stereotype out there that bikers are reckless daredevils. We weave through traffic. We speed. We take risks. Society pushes this narrative, and sometimes even riders start to believe it.

You might think you are automatically at fault because you were on two wheels. Do not fall for that trap. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a significant number of multi-vehicle motorcycle crashes occur when other drivers violate the rider's right-of-way.

We investigate the facts. We look at skid marks, camera footage, and witness statements. We frequently find that the rider did everything right and the other driver was negligent. Do not admit fault or assume blame until a professional has reviewed your case.

Myth: Simple Accidents Don't Need Lawyers

Maybe you walked away from the crash. You feel a little sore, but you think you are fine. The damage to the bike looks minor. You figure you can handle the claim yourself.

The problem is that adrenaline masks pain. Injuries like whiplash, soft tissue damage, or even traumatic brain injuries might not show symptoms for days or weeks. If you settle your personal injury claim based on how you feel two days after the motorcycle accident, you could be left paying for months of physical therapy on your own.

Even "simple" cases can get complicated quickly. The other driver might change their story. The insurance company might dispute the value of your custom parts or riding gear. Having a motorcycle crash lawyer involved early ensures that you are protected if the situation gets messy.

If you've been hurt in a crash and need answers, call us at 833-4Moto-Law (833-466-8652) or schedule a free consultation at www.metierlaw.com.

Myth: A Quick Settlement Is Always Best

When bills are arriving in the mail and you aren't working, a quick check looks very appealing. The insurance company knows this. They often dangle a fast settlement to desperate families.

Fast is rarely fair. A proper investigation takes time. Understanding the full scope of your medical needs takes time. If you settle too early, you might miss out on compensation for future lost wages or long-term care needs. We help you weigh the immediate benefit of cash against the long-term security of a full settlement.

Myth: Lawyers Guarantee Payouts

If a lawyer promises you a specific dollar amount during your first consultation, walk away. No ethical attorney can guarantee a result. Every case has unique variables.

What we can guarantee is our effort. We can promise to investigate thoroughly, fight aggressively for your rights, and communicate honestly about the strengths and weaknesses of your case. We rely on our track record and our experience to get you the best possible outcome.

According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), being prepared and aware is key to safety on the road. The same applies to your legal protection after a crash.

Myth: You Can Wait to Call a Lawyer

You might think you have plenty of time to decide on legal action. While every state has a statute of limitations, waiting is rarely a good idea. Evidence disappears quickly.

Rain washes away skid marks. Security cameras record over their footage. Witnesses move away or their memories fade. The sooner you get a legal team working on your crash, the better your chances of building a strong case. We can send preservation letters to stop businesses from destroying evidence that proves your innocence.

For more on road safety and statistics, you can visit the Department of Transportation (DOT) resources. Knowledge is your best defense on and off the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I hire a motorcycle crash lawyer instead of a general attorney?

Motorcycle cases involve specific mechanics and biases that general attorneys may not understand. A specialist knows how bikes handle and how to counter the arguments insurance companies use to blame riders. We know the difference between a high-side and a low-side crash and why it matters for your injuries.

What does it cost to hire Metier Motorcycle Lawyers?

We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront. We only receive a fee if we successfully recover compensation for you. If we don't win, you don't owe us legal fees. This allows you to get high-quality representation without financial stress.

How long do I have to file a claim after a motorcycle accident?

The time limit, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state. In Colorado, Washington, Oregon, Wyoming, and Nebraska, the laws differ. It is critical to contact us as soon as possible to ensure you do not miss any deadlines that could bar you from recovering damages.

Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault?

Yes, in many states you can still recover compensation even if you were partially responsible. This is often called comparative negligence. However, your award may be reduced by your percentage of fault. An experienced motorcycle injury lawyer can help minimize the fault attributed to you to maximize your recovery.

Will my case have to go to court?

Not necessarily. Many cases are settled out of court through negotiations with the insurance company. However, we prepare every case as if it is going to trial. This aggressive approach shows the insurance company we are serious and often leads to better settlement offers.

We Know What It's Like Out There

There is a lot of noise out there after a wreck. People tell you that lawyers are greedy or that you don't stand a chance against the insurance giant. These myths serve the insurance companies, not you.

At Metier Motorcycle Lawyers, we ride. We understand the freedom of the open road and the risks that come with it. We have seen how a crash can strip a family of their security and their happiness. We fight to get that back for you. Do not let misinformation stop you from protecting your future. You have rights, and you deserve a team that knows how to defend them.

Call Metier Law Firm at 833-4MOTO-LAW (833-466-8652) or schedule your free consultation today at www.metierlaw.com.

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Disclaimer: Past results discussed should not be considered a guarantee of your results as the factors of every case are individually unique. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney from Metier Law Firm regarding your individual situation for legal advice.

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