Can You Change Solicitors Halfway Through A Claim?

Yes, is the simple answer.

It is a common misconception that you are stuck with the solicitor your insurance company gives you if you have been involved in a motorcycle accident. What you need to bear in mind is that your motorbike insurer is for your motorbike if it gets damaged or stolen etc., not you personally if you get injured.

If you are using your insurance appointed solicitors, or any other solicitors, to handle your motorcycle claim and you are unhappy with the way your matter is being dealt with or the advice you have been given, you can change solicitors. You cannot be forced to use a particular firm of solicitors, if you want to switch then it is your legal right to do so.

Solicitors at White Dalton are riders themselves so they have experienced the many challenges and risks riders find themselves in on a daily basis and have the knowledge and expertise to handle your motorcycle claim in an efficient and competent manner.

A non-motorbike law firm would not normally have an idea of the physics and behaviour of motorcycles under braking, accelerating, or cornering, for example. You need a solicitor who does understand how your accident happened – why you cannot brake mid corner and steer, why tyres wash out under heavy braking, why damaged kit needs to be replaced etc. so they can present your case in the best possible way.

Second Opinion

What if you are just not sure whether you should change solicitors? 

White Dalton is happy to give you a second opinion on your case and discuss the options available to you so you can make an informed choice.

Even if you just get a second opinion, it does not mean you have to change solicitors.

What is important is that you ensure your solicitor is an expert in the issues relevant to motorcycle accidents, in both liability and the injuries sustained by bikers.

Can White Dalton take over cases?

White Dalton Motorcycle Solicitors have taken over many cases for frustrated clients who have been disappointed by their solicitors lack of expertise, poor communication, unnecessary delays or just isn’t interested in obtaining the maximum and fair level of compensation for injuries caused by a motorbike accident.

The transfer process is usually very easy for you and your new solicitor will handle the process of transferring your file over from the previous firm.

Things to consider/check when changing solicitors

Is the person who has been appointed to act on your behalf actually qualified as a solicitor or are they an unqualified claims handler or administrator? You can check the Law Society database to find out this information. It is illegal to call yourself a solicitor if you are not an admitted solicitor.

Have you received a letter or phone call out of the blue? If so, this solicitor or more likely, an unqualified claims handler is from a panel solicitor who has been passed your case from your insurance company. You may find that there is a commercial agreement in place between your insurance company and the panel solicitor or even that your insurer owns the company.

You will often find that panel solicitors will concentrate on similar types of claims, for example, whiplash claims. You need to ask yourself if you feel they are suitably qualified to take on your case and act in your best interests and obtain the best possible outcome for you.

Communication (or lack of…)

Are you finding getting hold of your solicitor is an impossible task? Do they respond to your emails or phone calls? Has there been a long period of time with no contact?

A breakdown in communication is frustrating and can cause unnecessary delays and even lead to added stress or anxiety on your part in what is an already stressful situation.

Reasons for this could be that your appointed solicitor does not know the answer to your questions, does not like you asking questions, is too busy or just doesn’t care enough about your case.

This is not how your solicitor should be acting for you and you should seek a second opinion. Trust your instincts, if things are not sitting right for you, you need to find a solicitor who will make the time to act in your best interests and achieve the best possible outcome for you.

When looking for a new solicitor – ask them:

• What their experience is in personal injury work and motorcycle accident claims;
• Do they specialise in personal injury cases or are they more of a general practice solicitor; 
• Will the person dealing with your case be qualified?
• Do they ride a motorcycle?

BK

https://www.whitedalton.co.uk/

#real bikers, real lawyers #call us before you call your insurer #motorbike solicitors