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CategoriesHow to Find a Good Motorcycle Lawyer in St. Louis
Motorcycle accidents take a heavy toll on Missouri riders. In 2023, 172 motorcyclists lost their lives, accounting for 17% of all traffic fatalities statewide.
After a crash, legal representation matters. Insurers often have an unfair bias, blaming motorcyclists for risk-taking or claiming reckless riding even when the other driver was at fault. A strong legal advocate can push back against these tactics and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Need help finding a qualified St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyer for your claim? The following tips help you know what to look for and where to start your search.
What to Look for in a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Not all personal injury lawyers are qualified to handle motorcycle accident cases. When searching for an attorney, consider the following qualifications:
Qualification | What to Assess | How It Helps You |
Specialization in Motorcycle Accidents | – Experience with motorcycle cases – Knowledge of lane-splitting laws, helmet rules, and rider bias | A lawyer who understands motorcycle-specific issues can build a stronger case by collecting the right evidence and anticipating common challenges. |
Strong Track Record of Verdicts and Settlements | – History of winning motorcycle cases – Positive client testimonials | A strong track record shows the firm’s success with past clients and ability to win motorcycle claims. |
Connections to Motorcycle Advocacy Groups | – Ties to local motorcycle clubs – Involvement in rider safety initiatives | These connections can provide expert resources and insight into rider challenges. |
Local Experience and Knowledge of St. Louis Courts | – Familiarity with Missouri motorcycle laws – Knowledge of local judges and insurers | Local attorneys understand court procedures and how St. Louis insurers handle claims, helping you avoid delays and get fair compensation. |
Clear Communication and Compassionate Approach | – Easy-to-understand legal guidance and frequent updates on your case – Genuine concern for your recovery | A lawyer who listens and offers reliable support can put you at ease and help you make the best decisions for your case. |
Understanding what makes a lawyer effective in motorcycle accident cases will help you narrow your options before scheduling a free case evaluation.
5 Tips for Researching Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Once you know what qualifications to look for, follow these steps to research potential lawyers and find the best fit for your case:
1. Check Online Reviews and Testimonials
Search for “St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyers” and review client feedback on platforms like Google and the Better Business Bureau. Notice any patterns from past clients to assess their strengths and potential red flags that could affect your claim.
What to look for:
- Patterns of positive feedback from motorcycle accident clients
- Mentions of fair settlements or aggressive insurance negotiations
- Consistent high ratings across multiple review platforms
2. Ask for Referrals from Other Riders
Ask for referrals from other riders you and your friends might know. Riders who have experienced a legal battle can provide firsthand insight into an attorney’s effectiveness and communication style.
What to ask:
- How well did the attorney understand motorcycle-specific issues?
- Did they keep clients informed throughout the case?
- Did they stand up effectively to insurers?
3. Consult Local Motorcycle Clubs and Associations
Organizations such as the Missouri Motorcycle Safety Program or local motorcycle clubs may have a list of attorneys who specialize in motorcycle accidents. They can also share experiences from members who have worked with different lawyers.
Where to check:
- Websites or member forums of local motorcycle groups
- Safety events or legal workshops hosted by motorcycle associations
- Recommendations from club leaders or experienced riders
4. Review Lawyer Directories and Bar Associations
Resources like the Missouri Bar Association and Martindale-Hubbell may provide attorney ratings, peer reviews, and details about their experience in handling motorcycle accident cases.
How to use them:
- Search for attorneys with high ratings in personal injury law
- Check for disciplinary actions or complaints
- Read peer and client reviews to gauge reputation
5. Schedule Free Consultations
Most personal injury lawyers offer free initial consultations. Take advantage of this to assess their expertise, communication style, and how they plan to approach your case.
What to ask:
- How many motorcycle accident cases have they handled?
- What are their typical settlement amounts?
- How does their contingency fee structure work?
Get the Legal Help You Deserve
Choosing the right attorney means working with someone who understands the unique challenges motorcyclists face on Missouri roads. At Cofman Townsley, our team has secured significant settlements for our clients, including a $15.8 million award for a catastrophic motorcycle and tractor trailer award.
Don’t let insurance companies undervalue your claim. If you were injured in a motorcycle crash, contact us for a free consultation.