Motorcycle accidents are often severe, complex, and life-altering. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash, finding the right attorney is one of the most important steps you can take toward securing fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering.
But how do you know if a lawyer is the right fit? The answer lies in the questions you ask during your first meeting.
Whether you’re meeting in person or via video conference, your consultation is an opportunity to evaluate the attorney’s experience, communication style, and strategy for handling your case. In this blog, our top-rated Naperville personal injury lawyers outline the most important questions to ask and explains what to listen for in their answers.
Why It’s So Important to Choose the Right Naperville Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Motorcycle crashes differ from regular car accidents in several ways. Riders often face more serious injuries, and there’s a persistent bias among juries and insurance adjusters that bikers are reckless—even when the motorcyclist is not at fault. Your attorney must understand the unique legal and medical aspects of motorcycle crash cases and be prepared to push back against unfair assumptions.
In Illinois alone, there were 2,544 motorcyclist injuries and 152 fatalities reported in 2022, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). With so much at stake, selecting an experienced injury attorney is critical.
Key Questions to Ask During Your First Consultation
- How Much Experience Do You Have with Motorcycle Accident Cases?
Not all personal injury lawyers are experienced with motorcycle accidents. This distinction matters. A lawyer who regularly handles motorcycle crash claims will be better equipped to:
- Reconstruct accident scenes
- Work with medical experts on injury documentation
- Anticipate insurance company tactics
- Handle bias against riders
What to look for in the answer:
Look for specific case examples, years of experience, and whether motorcycle crashes are a major part of their practice—not just an occasional case.
- Have You Handled Cases Similar to Mine?
Every motorcycle crash is different. If your case involves a drunk driver, a hit-and-run, or serious injuries like a traumatic brain injury or spinal damage, ask whether the attorney has dealt with similar fact patterns.
What to look for in the answer:
You want an attorney who not only says “yes,” but also explains the outcome of similar cases and how those experiences might apply to your situation.
- What Is Your Strategy for Handling My Case?
Understanding how the attorney plans to pursue your claim will help you evaluate their preparedness and commitment.
Ask about:
- Their investigative process
- Whether they will hire accident reconstruction experts
- Whether they attempt settlement first or prepare for trial from the start
- Whether they’ll pursue all liable parties (e.g., driver, vehicle manufacturer, or government entity)
What to look for in the answer:
A clear, confident plan that includes investigating the scene, collecting medical records, working with experts, and staying ahead of insurance company tactics.
- What Damages Can I Recover?
You should know what types of compensation may be available to you, such as:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Future care costs
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage (bike repair/replacement)
- Loss of enjoyment of life
What to look for in the answer:
The attorney should explain the full scope of potential damages and help you understand what kinds of evidence are needed to prove them.
- What Is My Case Worth?
While no attorney can guarantee a specific outcome, they should be able to give you a reasonable estimate based on similar cases and their experience.
What to look for in the answer:
Avoid lawyers who promise high-dollar outcomes without evidence. A trustworthy attorney will offer a range and explain the factors that influence your potential settlement or award.
- What Are Your Fees? Do You Work on Contingency?
Most personal injury attorneys—including motorcycle accident lawyers—work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they recover money for you.
Ask:
- What percentage of the recovery they charge
- Whether you’re responsible for out-of-pocket costs (like court fees or expert witnesses)
- If they offer a written fee agreement
What to look for in the answer:
Transparency. The attorney should explain the fee structure clearly, including what happens if you lose the case.
- Who Will Handle My Case Day-to-Day?
Some large firms pass cases off to junior associates or paralegals. Make sure you know who will be managing your case, communicating with you, and representing you in negotiations or court.
What to look for in the answer:
Reassurance that your case won’t be handed off without your knowledge. Ask for the name of your primary contact.
- How Will You Keep Me Updated?
Communication is key in personal injury cases that may last several months—or even years. Ask:
- How often will you hear from the attorney or their office?
- Will updates be by phone, email, or text?
- How long does it typically take to return client calls?
What to look for in the answer:
Look for an attorney who prioritizes communication and has a process for keeping you informed about your case status.
- What Challenges Do You See in My Case?
A good lawyer won’t just tell you what you want to hear. They should also be honest about any weaknesses or obstacles—such as limited insurance coverage, lack of witnesses, or contributory negligence claims.
What to look for in the answer:
Honesty and strategic thinking. An experienced attorney will explain how they plan to overcome any potential problems.
- Will You Take My Case to Trial If Necessary?
Some attorneys settle nearly every case. While settlement is common, sometimes it takes a courtroom trial to get fair compensation.
What to look for in the answer:
Experience with litigation. Your lawyer should be willing and prepared to go to trial if that’s what’s needed to secure justice.
Bonus Questions: Other Topics You May Want to Ask
- How long will my case take?
Most cases take several months to over a year depending on complexity, injuries, and court scheduling. - Can I recover damages if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
In Illinois, helmet use is not required by law. However, the defense may still argue comparative negligence. Your lawyer should be prepared to address this. - Will you help with insurance claims and bike replacement?
A good lawyer will assist not only with injury claims but also with negotiating your property damage settlement.
What You Should Bring to the Meeting
To get the most out of your first meeting, bring the following:
- Police accident report
- Medical records or hospital discharge papers
- Photos of the crash, your bike, and your injuries
- Contact information for any witnesses
- Insurance details (yours and the driver’s)
- Pay stubs or employment documentation (for lost wages)
Why Choose John J. Malm & Associates for Your Naperville Motorcycle Accident Case?
At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand how devastating a motorcycle accident can be. With decades of combined experience handling motorcycle crash claims throughout Illinois, our firm is equipped to build strong cases for injured riders.
We know the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts. We push back—armed with facts, medical evidence, and a deep understanding of Illinois personal injury law. Whether your crash involved a distracted driver, poor road conditions, or defective motorcycle parts, we will fight for the compensation you deserve.
Our clients value our communication, transparency, and trial-readiness. We offer personalized legal strategies tailored to your injury, your goals, and your future. Contact us today for a free consultation.