A motorcycle accident can turn your life upside down in seconds; suddenly, you’re expected to make decisions that could impact your future. You might consider hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer to handle it, but is it worth it? In most serious cases, yes.

For example, insurance companies often move quickly to control the situation—requesting recorded statements, questioning fault, and pushing early settlement offers that may not reflect the true cost of your injuries. What seems straightforward at first can become complicated fast.

At Laborde Earles, we have witnessed this situation firsthand. With over $1 billion recovered for injured clients throughout Louisiana, our team understands how insurance companies operate and what it takes to effectively push back and win. If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash, having the right legal strategy can significantly impact how your case is valued, negotiated, and resolved.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

• What a motorcycle accident lawyer actually does
• How contingency fees work (and what you really pay)
• When hiring a lawyer makes sense
• What happens after you hire one
• Answers to common questions riders have after a crash

What a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Really Does (And Why It Matters)

After a crash, your case is only as strong as the evidence behind it, and how it’s presented. Your motorcycle accident attorney will:

• Gather police reports, medical records, and witness statements
• Work with experts when needed
• Document long-term medical needs and financial losses

This matters because motorcycle injuries are often severe. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists face a significantly higher risk of serious injury in crashes.

In terms of dealing with insurance companies and their insurance adjusters, your lawyer:

• Handles all communication
• Pushes back against lowball offers
• Protects you from saying something that could be used against your claim

And to maximize compensation, your lawyer will craft a properly handled claim which accounts for:

• Medical expenses (now and in the future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning ability
• Pain and suffering

How Contingency Fees Work

One of the biggest concerns people have is cost, but in reality, you don’t pay anything upfront; most motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if your case is successful. The goal is to make legal representation accessible to those who otherwise couldn’t afford it.

Typical Fee Breakdown

Settlement	Attonery Fee (33%)	You Receive (Before Expenses)
$30,000	$10,000	$20,000
$100,000	$33,000	$67,000
$500,000	$165,000	$335,000

What About Case Costs?

Additional expenses may include:

• Expert witnesses
• Medical record retrieval
• Filing fees

These are typically advanced by the firm and only reimbursed if the case is successful. In many cases, clients still walk away with more compensation—even after fees—than they would on their own.

When You Should (and Shouldn’t) Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Not every case requires an attorney. However, you should strongly consider hiring a lawyer if:

• You suffered serious or long-term injuries
• Fault is disputed
• Multiple parties are involved
• The insurance company denies or delays your claim
• You’re offered a fast, low settlement
• The accident involves a fatality or wrongful death

You may not need a lawyer if:

• Injuries are minor and fully resolved
• Liability is clear and uncontested
• The insurer offers full and fair compensation immediately

Even then, it’s smart to get a second opinion before accepting any settlement.

What Happens After You Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Step 1: Case Review and Strategy

Your legal team reviews your case and outlines a plan to move forward.

Step 2: Investigation

Evidence is gathered, organized, and strengthened with expert support if needed.

Step 3: Demand Package

Your lawyer presents a detailed claim to the insurance company outlining damages.

Step 4: Negotiation

Most cases are resolved here—but only after strong negotiation.

Step 5: Lawsuit (If Necessary)

If a fair settlement isn’t offered, your attorney files suit and prepares for trial.

Step 6: Resolution

Once resolved:

• Expenses are handled
• You receive your compensation
• You can move forward

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need a lawyer for a motorcycle accident?
If your injuries are serious or the case is disputed, legal representation can significantly impact your outcome.

How long do I have to file a claim in Louisiana?
Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 3492, you generally have one year to file a personal injury claim.

What if I can’t afford a lawyer?
You don’t pay anything up front. You only pay if your case is successful.

Will my case go to court?
Most cases settle before trial, but having a lawyer ready to go to court strengthens your position.

Can a lawyer actually increase my settlement?
In many cases, yes, especially when serious injuries or disputed liability are involved.

When You’re Dealing With A Motorcycle Accident, The Question Isn’t Whether You Can Handle The Claim On Your Own, But Whether You Should.

Laborde Earles has been here since 1995. In that time, we’ve seen the significant difference the right legal strategy can make. From a $1.2 million recovery for a motorcycle accident victim to multi-million-dollar results across catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases, outcomes change when experienced attorneys step in early and build the case the right way.

If you’re unsure about your next step, that’s exactly where we come in. Schedule your free case evaluation today. No upfront cost and no fee unless we win.