Most motorcycle accident lawyers in Illinois work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay any money up front. Instead, your attorney is paid a percentage of your settlement or verdict only if they successfully recover compensation for you. The typical contingency fee ranges from 33% to 40% of the total recovery, depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial.
This arrangement allows injured victims to hire an experienced lawyer without worrying about out-of-pocket costs. You can focus on recovering from your injuries while your attorney handles the legal process and fights for fair compensation on your behalf.
How Do Contingency Fees Work in a Motorcycle Accident Case?
A contingency fee means the lawyer’s payment is directly tied to the success of your case. If they don’t win, you owe nothing for attorney’s fees. When they do win, their payment is deducted from the total amount of your settlement or court award.
For example, if your lawyer charges a 33% contingency fee and secures a $90,000 settlement, they would receive $30,000 as their fee.
This model ensures that your lawyer has a strong incentive to pursue the highest possible settlement. It also gives you peace of mind that your attorney’s interests are fully aligned with yours.
Additional Expenses and Case Costs
In addition to contingency fees, there may be other case-related expenses that arise during your claim. These can include:
- Filing fees for court documents
- Costs for expert witnesses and accident reconstruction specialists
- Charges for medical record retrieval and copying
- Deposition and transcript expenses
Some law firms cover these costs as the case progresses and are reimbursed once the claim is resolved. However, others may handle them differently. Always ask during your free consultation how these fees are handled so you know what to expect.
While these costs can add up, they’re typically small compared to the overall value of your case. A reputable motorcycle accident lawyer will be transparent about all fees and provide a written agreement outlining their policies.
Why Contingency Fees Benefit Motorcycle Accident Victims
Contingency-based representation makes it possible for anyone, regardless of income, to pursue justice after a crash. You don’t have to risk your own savings or worry about paying hourly legal fees. This arrangement also motivates your lawyer to work efficiently and aggressively to secure the best outcome.
Since motorcycle accident claims can involve serious injuries and powerful insurance companies, having an attorney who only gets paid if you win ensures that your case receives the time and effort it deserves.
Schedule a Free Consultation With an Illinois Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Hiring a Chicago personal injury lawyer in Illinois doesn’t have to be expensive or stressful. In most cases, you can work with a top-rated attorney at no upfront cost and only pay after your case is successfully resolved.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, schedule a free consultation with a trusted personal injury lawyer with Meyers & Flowers today by calling (630) 232-6333.