Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers | January 12, 2026 | Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents can be life-changing. Riders have very little protection compared to drivers in passenger vehicles, which means injuries are often severe, medical bills add up quickly, and time away from work can create serious financial stress. After a crash, many injured motorcyclists ask the same question: “Do I really need a lawyer, or can I handle this myself?”
While every situation is different, understanding what’s at stake can help you decide whether hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer is the right move for you.
Why Motorcycle Accidents Are Different
Motorcycle accident claims are not handled the same way as typical car accident cases. Insurance companies often treat injured riders unfairly, relying on harmful stereotypes that paint motorcyclists as reckless or irresponsible. Even when another driver clearly caused the crash, insurers may try to shift blame to the rider to reduce or deny compensation.
Because of this bias, motorcycle accident victims often face more resistance from insurance companies than other accident victims. Having a lawyer can help level the playing field.
When You Might Be Able to Handle a Claim Alone
In limited situations, you may be able to handle a motorcycle accident claim without legal help.
For example, if:
- Your injuries are minor and required little to no medical treatment
- You missed little or no work
- Fault is clear and undisputed
- The insurance company offers a fair settlement that fully covers your losses
In these cases, pursuing a claim on your own may be possible. However, even seemingly minor injuries can worsen over time, and early settlement offers often fail to account for long-term medical care or future complications.
Signs You Should Strongly Consider Hiring a Lawyer
In most motorcycle accident cases, hiring an experienced attorney is highly beneficial—especially if any of the following apply:
1. You Suffered Serious Injuries
Motorcycle accidents commonly result in broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord damage, road rash, and internal injuries. These injuries often require surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term care. A lawyer can calculate the true value of your claim, including future medical expenses and long-term impacts.
2. Fault Is Disputed
If the other driver or their insurance company claims you were partially or fully at fault, a lawyer can gather evidence, interview witnesses, review police reports, and work with accident reconstruction experts to protect your rights.
3. The Insurance Company Is Pushing You to Settle Quickly
Quick settlement offers are often designed to save the insurance company money—not to fully compensate you. Once you accept a settlement, you usually can’t go back for more, even if new injuries appear later. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf and prevent costly mistakes.
4. You’re Being Blamed for Riding a Motorcycle
Bias against motorcyclists is real. Insurance adjusters may argue that speed, lane positioning, or visibility makes you responsible—even when the evidence says otherwise. An attorney understands these tactics and knows how to counter them.
5. You Missed Work or Can’t Return to Your Job
Lost income, reduced earning capacity, and long-term disability can significantly increase the value of your claim. A lawyer ensures these damages are fully documented and included.
What a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Actually Does
Hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer isn’t just about going to court. Most cases settle without a trial, but strong preparation is what leads to fair settlements.
A lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident and preserve critical evidence
- Handle all communication with insurance companies
- Calculate the full value of your damages
- Negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement
- File a lawsuit if the insurer refuses to act reasonably
- Represent you in court if necessary
This allows you to focus on healing while your legal rights are protected.
How Much Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Cost?
Most motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and the attorney only gets paid if they recover compensation for you. If there’s no recovery, you typically owe nothing for attorney’s fees. This arrangement allows injured riders to access quality legal representation without financial risk.
Contact Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident, hiring a lawyer is often one of the smartest decisions you can make—especially if your injuries are serious or liability is disputed. Insurance companies are focused on minimizing payouts, not protecting your future.
A skilled motorcycle accident lawyer at Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers can help you understand your rights, avoid costly mistakes, and pursue the compensation you need to move forward with your life. Contact us today for a free consultation.
For more information, please contact Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a confidential consultation with a personal injury lawyer. Our team is available to assist clients in Lanham, Frederick, Rockville, Waldorf, Annapolis, and Lexington Park, Maryland.
We proudly serve Charles County, Prince George’s County, and its surrounding areas. Visit our law offices at:
Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers – Waldorf Office
8 Post Office Rd Waldorf, MD 20602
(301) 932-9997
Available 24/7
Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers – Lanham Office
4600 Forbes Blvd Ste #200 Lanham, MD 20706
(301) 936-0011
Available 24/7