What Affects Motorcycle Injury Settlements in Pittsburgh?
The phone call from the insurance adjuster often comes quickly after an accident. They might sound friendly and concerned, but it’s crucial to remember their job is to protect their company’s bottom line. This means paying you as little as possible. They know you’re dealing with pain, stress, and mounting bills, and they often use that pressure to push for a quick, low settlement. To protect yourself, you need to understand the process from the inside. This article will walk you through the realities of motorcycle injury settlements in Pittsburgh, explaining the insurance company tactics to watch for and how to build a strong case.
Key Takeaways
- Forget the “Average” Settlement Amount: Your case’s value is unique and depends on the severity of your injuries, who was at fault, and the available insurance coverage, not a generic formula.
- Fault Isn’t an All-or-Nothing Game: Pennsylvania’s shared fault law means you can still receive compensation even if you’re partially responsible, as long as your fault is 50% or less. Your final award is simply reduced by your percentage of blame.
- Take Control to Strengthen Your Claim: The actions you take matter. Document everything from medical bills to lost wages, gather evidence from the scene, and never accept the first insurance offer without speaking to an attorney.
What Factors Determine Your Motorcycle Injury Settlement?
After a motorcycle accident, one of the first questions people ask is, “How much is my case worth?” It’s a fair question, but there’s no simple calculator for injury settlements. The final amount depends on the unique details of your accident. Several key factors come together to determine what a fair settlement looks like for you. Understanding these elements can give you a clearer picture of what to expect and why having an experienced attorney is so important. We look at everything from the crash report to your medical records to build a case that reflects the true impact the accident has had on your life.
The Severity of Your Injuries
The nature and severity of your injuries are the foundation of your settlement value. A minor case of road rash will result in a much different settlement than a traumatic brain injury. More serious injuries mean higher medical bills, more time off work, and a greater impact on your daily life. We consider the full extent of your physical harm, including the pain and suffering you’ve endured and any long-term or permanent disabilities. The goal is to secure compensation that covers not just your immediate medical needs but also any future care you might require to recover as fully as possible. Your health is the priority, and your settlement should reflect that.
Who Was at Fault?
Pennsylvania law looks at who is responsible for the accident. If the other driver was clearly at fault, your path to compensation is more straightforward. However, insurance companies often try to shift blame onto the motorcyclist. They might argue you were speeding or weaving through traffic. If you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your settlement amount can be reduced by your percentage of fault. This is why a thorough investigation is critical. We work to gather evidence like police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage to establish the other party’s negligence and protect your claim from unfair blame.
Available Insurance Coverage
A major factor that can limit your settlement is the amount of insurance coverage the at-fault driver carries. Every driver in Pennsylvania is required to have insurance, but many only carry the state minimum. If your damages exceed the at-fault driver’s policy limits, it can be difficult to recover the full amount you deserve. For example, if your medical bills are $100,000 but the driver only has a $25,000 policy, that’s all their insurance company will pay. This is where your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage can become incredibly important.
Your Medical Costs and Future Care
Your settlement should cover all medical expenses related to the accident. This includes everything from the initial ambulance ride and emergency room visit to surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and any necessary medical equipment. It’s not just about the bills you have today. We also account for the cost of future medical care your doctors anticipate you’ll need. Beyond medical bills, we calculate the income you’ve lost from being unable to work. If your injuries prevent you from returning to your job or limit your earning capacity in the future, that is also factored into your total injury law settlement.
What Is an Average Motorcycle Accident Settlement in Pittsburgh?
If you’re recovering from a motorcycle accident, one of the first questions you probably have is about the value of your claim. While it’s natural to want a specific number, the truth is there’s no single “average” settlement. Every accident is unique, and the final amount depends entirely on the details of your case. In Pennsylvania, settlements can range from $30,000 to over $200,000, but this is just a broad estimate.
The final value of your settlement is calculated based on several key factors, including how severe your injuries are, who was at fault for the crash, and the amount of insurance coverage available. Understanding these elements is the first step toward figuring out what your claim might be worth. An experienced Pittsburgh injury lawyer can help you assess the specifics of your situation and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Settlement Ranges by Injury Type
The most significant factor influencing your settlement amount is the severity of your injuries. For minor to moderate injuries, like road rash or a broken bone that heals within a few months, settlements typically fall into a smaller range, often up to about $50,000. These amounts are meant to cover your immediate medical bills, lost wages, and some pain and suffering.
For serious injuries that require surgery, long-term physical therapy, or ongoing medical care, settlements are much larger. These cases can range from $50,000 to several hundred thousand dollars or more. The goal of a larger settlement is to cover not just current expenses but also future medical needs, permanent disability, and the profound impact the injury has on your quality of life.
What Can Increase Your Settlement Value?
Several factors can increase the value of your settlement. Unsurprisingly, more serious injuries almost always lead to higher compensation because they involve greater medical costs and more significant pain and suffering. The total amount of your medical bills, both past and future, is a cornerstone of your claim.
Another critical element is fault. If the other driver was clearly and completely responsible for the accident, your case is much stronger. Pennsylvania follows a comparative negligence rule, which means if you are found partially at fault, your settlement could be reduced. Proving the other party’s liability is key to securing the maximum possible compensation for your injuries and other losses.
Why Every Settlement is Different
It’s impossible to use a simple calculator to determine a settlement amount because every case is a unique combination of circumstances. The final value is a result of many moving parts. The worth of a motorcycle crash claim depends on the specific nature of your injuries, the total economic and non-economic damages you’ve suffered, and the limits of the available insurance policies.
For example, two riders could suffer the same type of fracture, but if one requires surgery and extensive physical therapy while the other heals quickly, their settlement values will be very different. This is why it’s so important to have your case evaluated by a legal professional who can analyze every detail and build a claim that reflects your personal experience.
What Damages Can You Claim in a Settlement?
After a motorcycle accident, the term “damages” refers to the total losses you’ve suffered. It’s the legal system’s way of quantifying the physical, emotional, and financial impact of the crash. Your settlement is meant to compensate you for these damages, helping you get back on your feet. These losses are typically grouped into three main categories: economic, non-economic, and in some rare cases, punitive damages.
Understanding what you can claim is the first step toward securing a fair settlement. It’s not just about the immediate hospital bills; it’s about the full scope of how the accident has affected your life. This includes everything from lost wages while you were recovering to the long-term physical pain you might endure. An experienced injury law attorney can help you identify and calculate all of your damages to ensure nothing is overlooked when negotiating with the insurance company.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are the most straightforward part of your claim because they represent tangible financial losses with a clear paper trail. Think of these as any out-of-pocket costs you’ve had because of the accident. This includes all your medical bills, from the initial ambulance ride and emergency room visit to surgery, medication, and ongoing physical therapy. It also covers any future medical care you might need.
Beyond medical expenses, economic damages include lost income. If your injuries kept you from working, you can claim the wages, salary, or commissions you missed out on. This also applies to lost benefits or self-employment income. It’s essential to keep detailed records of all these expenses to build a strong foundation for your settlement claim.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages cover the intangible losses that don’t come with a receipt but are just as real. This category compensates you for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced since the accident. It acknowledges the human cost of your injuries. Examples include pain and suffering, mental anguish, and the loss of enjoyment of life if you can no longer participate in hobbies or activities you once loved.
Because these damages are subjective, they are much harder to calculate. Insurance companies often try to downplay their value. This is where having a skilled attorney becomes critical. We can help articulate the true impact the accident has had on your quality of life and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you have questions about your specific situation, you can always contact us for guidance.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are in a class of their own. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, which are designed to compensate you for your losses, punitive damages are intended to punish the at-fault party for their actions. They are only awarded in rare cases where the defendant’s behavior was especially reckless, malicious, or intentional. The goal is to deter them and others from engaging in similar conduct in the future.
For example, a court might award punitive damages if the other driver was excessively speeding in a school zone or caused the accident while driving under the influence. Because Pennsylvania law sets a high bar for proving this level of misconduct, punitive damages are not a factor in most motorcycle accident settlements.
How Pennsylvania’s Negligence Law Affects Your Settlement
When you’re in a motorcycle accident, it’s easy to think of fault as an all-or-nothing situation. Either the other driver was to blame, or you were. In reality, Pennsylvania law sees things a bit differently. The state operates under a legal principle that can assign a percentage of fault to everyone involved in an accident. This concept is called negligence, and understanding how it works is critical because it directly impacts the amount of money you can recover in a settlement.
Insurance companies are very aware of these rules and often use them to their advantage. They might try to argue that you were partially responsible for the crash, even if the other driver was clearly more reckless. Their goal is to reduce the amount they have to pay you. This is why proving the other party’s degree of fault, and minimizing your own, is a key part of any successful injury law claim. The final percentage assigned to you can make a huge difference in your financial recovery.
What is Shared Fault?
In Pennsylvania, the law recognizes that sometimes more than one person is responsible for an accident. This is known as “shared fault” or “comparative negligence.” The rule states that you can still recover money for your injuries as long as you are found to be less than 51% at fault for the accident. If your share of the blame is 50% or less, you can get a settlement, but the amount will be adjusted based on your percentage of fault. For example, an insurance adjuster might argue you were 10% at fault for not braking quickly enough, even if the other driver made an illegal turn.
How Shared Fault Impacts Your Compensation
The percentage of fault assigned to you directly reduces your final settlement amount. It’s a straightforward calculation. If you are awarded a $100,000 settlement but are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your final compensation will be reduced by 20%. This means you would receive $80,000 instead of the full amount. Because this rule can save them thousands of dollars, insurance companies will work hard to shift as much blame as possible onto you. An experienced attorney can fight back against these tactics and work to prove the other driver holds the majority of the responsibility.
Can You Still Recover Damages if Partially at Fault?
Yes, you absolutely can recover damages even if you were partially at fault, but there’s a strict cutoff. As long as your percentage of fault is determined to be 50% or less, you are eligible for compensation. However, the moment you are found to be 51% or more responsible for the crash, you are barred from recovering any money at all. This 51% bar is a critical line in Pennsylvania law. This is why having a strong legal advocate is so important. We can help you gather the evidence needed to protect your right to compensation. If you have questions, it’s best to contact an attorney to discuss your case.
Common Injuries That Impact Settlement Value
The nature and severity of your injuries are the most significant factors in determining your settlement amount. A motorcycle accident can cause a wide range of physical harm, from minor scrapes to life-altering conditions. Insurance companies and courts look at the immediate medical costs, the need for future care, and how the injury affects your ability to work and enjoy life. Understanding how different injuries are valued is a key step in knowing what to expect from your claim. An experienced injury law attorney can help you document the full extent of your injuries to ensure you seek the compensation you deserve.
Head and Brain Injuries
Because motorcycles offer so little protection, head and brain injuries are tragically common and incredibly serious. A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can change your life forever, potentially requiring lifelong medical care, rehabilitation, and assistance with daily tasks. The settlement value for these injuries is often substantial because it must account for extensive medical bills, lost earning capacity, and the profound impact on your quality of life. These cases consider not just the physical recovery but also the cognitive and emotional challenges that follow, such as memory loss, personality changes, and chronic pain. The goal is to secure a settlement that provides for your needs long into the future.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are among the most catastrophic outcomes of a motorcycle crash. Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring a total life adjustment. The financial costs associated with these injuries are immense, covering everything from surgeries and mobility devices to home modifications and round-the-clock attendant care. Settlements for spinal cord injuries are typically very high because they must reflect these enormous lifelong expenses. Beyond the financial aspect, the compensation also addresses the immense pain and suffering and the permanent loss of physical function, which fundamentally alters a person’s life and independence.
Broken Bones and Fractures
While not as severe as brain or spinal damage, broken bones and fractures are painful injuries that can seriously disrupt your life. A motorcycle accident can easily cause multiple fractures to legs, arms, ribs, and hips. Your settlement should cover all medical treatment, including emergency room visits, surgery, casting, and physical therapy. It also accounts for your lost wages while you are unable to work during your recovery. While these cases may result in smaller settlements compared to catastrophic injuries, the value still depends on the severity of the break, the length of your recovery, and whether you experience any long-term complications like chronic pain or limited mobility.
Road Rash and Scarring
Road rash is a frequent injury for motorcyclists, occurring when skin is scraped away after sliding across the pavement. While it might sound minor, severe road rash can be incredibly painful, require skin grafts, and lead to permanent scarring and disfigurement. The settlement value for these injuries considers the cost of medical treatment to prevent infection and manage pain. It also includes compensation for the emotional distress caused by visible and permanent scarring. The location and severity of the scars play a big role; prominent scarring on the face or arms, for example, can have a significant psychological impact and may result in a higher settlement value.
The Role of Insurance in Your Settlement Amount
When you’re recovering from a motorcycle accident, the last thing you want to deal with is insurance. But the reality is, insurance coverage is one of the biggest factors that will shape your final settlement amount. The policies held by both you and the at-fault driver create the financial boundaries for what you can recover. Think of the available insurance as the total pool of money available to compensate you for your injuries, lost income, and other damages. Understanding these limits and how insurance companies operate is the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.
An experienced injury law attorney can handle the complex negotiations with insurance adjusters, making sure your claim is valued correctly from the start. It’s important to know what you’re up against, because the available coverage can sometimes be less than what you truly need to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Your lawyer will investigate all possible sources of coverage to maximize the funds available for your settlement.
Pennsylvania’s Minimum Insurance Requirements
In Pennsylvania, all drivers must carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. This includes $15,000 in bodily injury liability coverage for one person, $30,000 per accident if multiple people are hurt, and $5,000 in property damage liability. While this is the legal minimum, it’s often not enough to cover the serious injuries common in motorcycle accidents. A single trip to the emergency room and a few follow-up appointments can easily exhaust the at-fault driver’s $15,000 limit. This can leave you with significant out-of-pocket expenses unless other options are available, which is why identifying all applicable insurance policies is one of the first things your attorney will do.
What is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage?
This is where your own insurance policy can become your most valuable asset. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is an optional protection you can add to your policy. It’s designed to cover your damages if you’re hit by a driver who has no insurance (uninsured) or not enough insurance to cover your bills (underinsured). Given Pennsylvania’s low minimum requirements, carrying UM/UIM coverage is one of the best ways to protect yourself financially. If the at-fault driver’s policy is exhausted, you can file a claim against your own UM/UIM coverage to help make up the difference and get the compensation you need to recover fully.
How Insurance Companies Value Your Claim
It’s crucial to remember that insurance companies are for-profit businesses. Their primary goal is to protect their bottom line, which often means paying out as little as possible on claims. Adjusters may start with a low settlement offer, hoping you’re stressed about mounting bills and will accept a quick payment. They will look at the severity of your injuries, the details of the crash, and all available insurance coverage to determine a value. An attorney can build a strong case that demonstrates the true cost of your injuries, forcing the insurance company to negotiate fairly. If you’ve received a low offer, it’s time to contact a lawyer to protect your rights.
How Long Does a Settlement Take?
One of the first questions on everyone’s mind after an accident is, “How long will this take?” It’s a completely valid question. You’re dealing with injuries, medical bills, and the stress of recovery, so you want to know when you can expect a resolution. While there’s no magic number, understanding the settlement process can help set clear expectations. The timeline depends on several factors, from the complexity of your case to the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate fairly. An experienced attorney can help you manage the process and fight for a timely and just outcome.
A Realistic Settlement Timeline
Most motorcycle accident cases settle within six months to a year. However, this is just an average, and cases with severe injuries or complicated fault disputes can take longer. The initial phase involves gathering evidence, documenting your medical treatment, and calculating your total damages. Once your lawyer sends a demand letter to the insurance company, a period of negotiation begins. This back and forth can take weeks or months. The goal is to reach a fair agreement without needing to go to court, but we never sacrifice a fair settlement for a quick one.
What Can Delay Your Settlement?
Several factors can slow down the settlement process. Insurance companies are not in a hurry to pay out claims and may use delay tactics to pressure you into accepting a lower offer. Delays can also happen if there are disputes over who was at fault or if you need extensive medical treatment. Even after you agree on a settlement amount, it can take several weeks for the insurance company to process the paperwork and issue the payment. An attorney can manage these hurdles and keep the pressure on the insurance company to handle your injury law claim efficiently.
When Does Your Case Go to Court?
The vast majority of personal injury claims settle out of court. Filing a lawsuit is typically a last resort, used when the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement. If a lawsuit is necessary, the timeline can extend significantly, often taking a year and a half or more to resolve in Pennsylvania. The court process involves formal discovery, depositions, and potentially a trial. While going to court takes longer, sometimes it’s the only way to get the full compensation you deserve. If you have questions about your specific situation, it’s best to contact us for a clear assessment.
Common Myths About Motorcycle Injury Settlements
After a motorcycle accident, you’ll hear a lot of advice. Unfortunately, much of it is based on common myths that can hurt your chances of getting the compensation you deserve. Separating fact from fiction is the first step toward protecting your rights and securing a fair settlement. Let’s clear up some of the biggest myths about motorcycle injury claims.
Myth: There’s a “Standard” Settlement Amount
One of the most frequent questions we hear is, “What’s the average settlement for a motorcycle accident?” The truth is, there’s no such thing as a standard amount. Because every case is different, settlement values can vary dramatically. While some sources suggest a typical range in Pennsylvania, this is only a rough estimate. The final amount depends entirely on the unique details of your accident, including the severity of your injuries, the total of your medical bills and lost wages, and the amount of available insurance coverage. Your settlement is calculated based on your specific losses, not a predetermined average.
Insurance Company Tactics to Watch For
It’s important to remember that insurance companies are businesses. Their primary goal is to protect their profits, which often means paying out as little as possible on claims. Adjusters may contact you shortly after the accident with a quick, low settlement offer, hoping you’ll accept it before you know the full extent of your injuries and expenses. They might even claim their offer is “final” to pressure you into a decision. These are common tactics. A reasonable settlement offer should cover all your damages, and you should never feel rushed into accepting a deal without legal advice.
How to Know What Your Claim is Really Worth
Determining the true value of your claim requires a careful look at several key factors. To get paid, you must first show that the other driver was at fault and that their actions directly caused your accident and injuries. From there, the value is built by calculating all your losses. This includes economic damages like medical bills, lost income, and future care costs, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Because so many variables affect how much money you might get, working with an experienced attorney is the best way to understand what your claim is truly worth and build a strong case.
How to Maximize Your Motorcycle Accident Settlement
After a motorcycle accident, your focus should be on recovery. But the steps you take in the days and weeks that follow can have a huge impact on your financial future. Securing a fair settlement isn’t about luck; it’s about being prepared and strategic. By taking control of the process, you can build a strong case that reflects the true cost of your accident and ensures you get the compensation you deserve. It starts with knowing what information to collect, what mistakes to avoid, and when to ask for help.
Gather the Right Evidence
To get paid, you need to show that the other driver was at fault, their actions caused your crash, and you suffered injuries and financial losses because of it. This requires solid proof. Start by taking photos and videos at the accident scene, capturing everything from vehicle damage and road conditions to your injuries. If there were any witnesses, get their names and phone numbers. Their statements can be incredibly valuable. Also, make sure to get a copy of the official police report. This collection of evidence forms the foundation of your injury law claim and is your best tool for proving what happened.
Document Your Medical Treatment
Your health is the priority, and every doctor’s visit is a critical piece of your settlement puzzle. Keep detailed records of all medical bills, lost income, and other costs related to the accident. This includes everything from ambulance rides and hospital stays to prescription medications and physical therapy appointments. It’s also wise to get an independent medical assessment. This report helps determine the full extent of your injuries and how much compensation you should get. Meticulous documentation makes it much harder for an insurance company to downplay the severity of your injuries or the financial toll they’ve taken on your life.
Avoid Costly Mistakes
Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to pay out as little as possible. That’s why you should never accept the first settlement offer; it’s usually too low and doesn’t account for your future needs. Be very careful about what you say to an insurance adjuster, as they can use your words against you. Most importantly, don’t sign any papers or accept any checks from the insurance company without a lawyer looking at them first. Signing the wrong document could mean giving up your right to fair compensation. An experienced attorney can protect you from these tactics and fight for the settlement you truly deserve.
Why You Need a Pittsburgh Motorcycle Accident Attorney
After a motorcycle accident, you’re dealing with physical pain, emotional stress, and mounting medical bills. The last thing you need is the added burden of fighting a legal battle alone. This is where a dedicated motorcycle accident attorney becomes your most important ally. While you focus on recovery, your lawyer focuses on building a strong case to get you the compensation you deserve. They handle the complex paperwork, gather crucial evidence, and stand up to insurance companies that are trained to pay out as little as possible.
Hiring an attorney isn’t just about having legal representation; it’s about leveling the playing field. Insurance adjusters have teams of lawyers working to protect their bottom line. An experienced Pittsburgh attorney works for you, ensuring your story is heard and your losses are fully accounted for. From investigating the crash scene to interviewing witnesses and consulting with experts, they manage every detail of your claim. This comprehensive support allows you to move forward with confidence, knowing a professional is fighting for your best interests every step of the way and working to secure the financial stability you need for your future.
Knows Pennsylvania Motorcycle Law
Pennsylvania’s motorcycle laws have specific details that can significantly affect your case. An experienced attorney understands these rules inside and out, from helmet regulations to the complexities of shared fault. Many factors influence how much money you might receive, including the severity of your injuries, the details of the crash, and the available insurance coverage. A lawyer who specializes in injury law knows how to apply these state-specific laws to your situation, building a case that accurately reflects the value of your claim and maximizes your potential for a fair settlement. This expertise is critical for a successful outcome.
Handles the Insurance Companies for You
Dealing with insurance companies after an accident can be incredibly frustrating. Their goal is often to settle your claim quickly and for the lowest amount possible. A skilled lawyer completely changes this dynamic. They take over all communication with the insurance adjusters, preventing you from saying something that could be used against you. Your attorney will gather all the necessary evidence, calculate your total losses including future medical care and lost wages, and negotiate aggressively on your behalf. This ensures your claim is taken seriously and you don’t accept an offer that falls short of what you truly need to recover.
Protects Your Rights
Above all, an attorney is there to protect your rights. It is essential to hire an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who can help you understand your case, manage the insurance companies, and fight for fair compensation. Without legal guidance, you might miss critical deadlines for filing a claim or unknowingly accept a settlement that waives your right to future compensation. Sean Logue and his team ensure your interests are protected from start to finish, advocating for you at every turn and making sure you are treated fairly throughout the entire legal process.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if the other driver’s insurance company calls me? It’s best to be polite but brief. You can confirm your name and contact information, but you should not give a recorded statement or discuss the details of the accident. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that might get you to say something that could weaken your claim. The safest move is to tell them you will have your attorney contact them, and then call a lawyer to handle all future communications.
Will I have to go to court to get my settlement? Most motorcycle accident cases are settled through negotiations with the insurance company and never see the inside of a courtroom. The goal is always to reach a fair agreement without the time and expense of a trial. However, if the insurance company refuses to make a reasonable offer, filing a lawsuit is sometimes the only way to get the full compensation you deserve.
What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet? Can I still get a settlement? Yes, you can still pursue a settlement even if you were not wearing a helmet. While Pennsylvania law requires helmets, not wearing one does not automatically bar you from compensation. The insurance company will likely argue that your injuries are more severe because you weren’t wearing one to try and reduce your settlement. An experienced attorney can fight back against these claims and work to show the other driver’s actions were the primary cause of your injuries.
How is “pain and suffering” actually calculated? There is no simple calculator for pain and suffering. This part of your settlement is meant to compensate you for the physical pain and emotional distress the accident has caused. Its value is determined by factors like the severity of your injuries, the length of your recovery, and the long-term impact on your quality of life. A skilled attorney knows how to build a compelling case that demonstrates the true human cost of your injuries to an insurance company.
I’m worried about legal fees. How much does it cost to hire an attorney? Most personal injury attorneys work on what is called a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay any legal fees upfront. The attorney’s fee is a percentage of the final settlement or award they secure for you. If you do not win your case, you do not owe any attorney fees. This arrangement allows you to get expert legal help without any financial risk.