Most motorcycle accident lawyers who represent plaintiffs handle cases on a contingency fee basis. Under a contingency fee arrangement, the injured plaintiff does not pay the attorney anything unless and until the attorney recovers compensation for the client.

The attorney will typically cover the costs of the case, such as court filing fees or hiring expert witnesses. If the attorney successfully recovers compensation, he or she will deduct his or her fee (usually a percentage of the total recovery) as well as any expenses. The balance of the settlement or judgment is paid to the client.