Miami Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
Motorcycle accidents can lead to devastating injuries, so they are a serious concern in Florida. The Florida Department of Highway Safey and Motor Vehicle (FLHSMV) reports that there are more than 9,500 crashes annually statewide, resulting in approximately 630 fatalities and injuries to almost 8,200 victims. If you were hurt in a motorcycle collision, you know that securing fair compensation is a priority, considering the losses you are already experiencing.
Though you realize the important role legal representation plays in maximizing your compensation, you might wonder about the costs. Hiring a Miami motorcycle accident attorney gives you an edge when negotiating settlement and in court. Fortunately, in Florida, motorcycle accident attorneys typically work on a contingency fee basis. You can read on for an explanation of this billing policy, as well as other details about costs.
Contingency Fees
This basis for billing is ideal for families seeking legal assistance without immediate financial burden. With a contingency fee, clients only pay if the case is successful. There are a few points to note:
· Success in a motorcycle accident claim could be a settlement or court verdict.
· Attorneys’ fees for a contingency fee arrangement require the client to pay a percentage of the award.
· The percentage generally ranges from 33 to 40% in Florida, depending on the complexity of the case and whether it proceeds to trial.
For victims seeking justice for their injuries, this fee structure can provide reassurance that the attorney is motivated to achieve the best possible outcome.
Filing Fees and Court Costs
Beyond fees for the attorney’s services, there are additional costs associated with pursuing a motorcycle accident claim in Miami. Filing fees cover submitting the lawsuit to the court, and they can range from a few hundred dollars to more.
Court costs may also include fees for copying, document processing, obtaining medical records, and other administrative expenses necessary to build a strong case. Although these costs are typically advanced by your lawyer initially, they are deducted from the final settlement or verdict.
Expert Witnesses and Other Expenses
In cases involving severe injuries or complicated liability issues, experts may be necessary to strengthen your motorcycle accident claim. These professionals are also essential to counter any experts introduced by the at-fault driver’s insurance company. They may include:
· Medical professionals
· Accident reconstruction specialists
· Actuaries and financial analysts
Expert witnesses come with additional costs, which can vary widely. Most attorneys cover these expenses upfront but will deduct them from the settlement if the case succeeds.
Discuss Legal Remedies With a Miami Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
For families coping with the impact of a motorcycle accident, a breakdown of the legal costs can make the decision process easier. With a contingency fee arrangement and advance on additional expenses, hiring an attorney becomes a manageable step toward recovering compensation for your losses. To learn more, please call Gerson & Schwartz, PA, at (305) 371-6000 or visit us online. We can set up a no-cost case review at our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL.
