How Long Does a Motorcycle Accident Claim Take to Settle?
Did you suffer injuries in a South Carolina motorcycle accident? You could be entitled to compensation if another party is to blame. Compensation can include money for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses. But how long does it take to reach a motorcycle accident settlement?
Unfortunately, no quick calculation will tell you precisely how long your South Carolina motorcycle accident case will take. But “it depends” is never a satisfying answer when your health and finances are on the line. Here, the experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Wilson Law Group, LLC explain the timeline for motorcycle injury claims.
The Motorcycle Accident Claim Timeline
You can break down motorcycle accident claims into five phases:
- Finding an attorney – Your first step in any motorcycle accident claim should be to hire a personal injury lawyer. Your lawyer can immediately get started on your case to ensure critical evidence is not altered or lost.
- Investigating the crash – Your attorney will conduct a detailed investigation to identify who is at fault for the motorcycle crash. They can also gather proof of your physical injuries, financial losses, and emotional distress to build your claim. After the initial investigation is complete, your lawyer will submit a demand letter to the other driver and their insurance company.
- Participating in discovery – Discovery is the legal term for the phase of a motorcycle accident claim in which both sides exchange evidence. Let your lawyer handle all communication with the insurance company so you do not accidentally say something to jeopardize your case.
- Negotiating a settlement – Once the discovery process is complete, your attorney and the insurance company will begin settlement negotiations. Your lawyer will place an appropriate value on your case and work toward a settlement that meets your needs and accounts for your losses. If you reach a fair settlement, your case ends here.
- Going to trial – If the insurance company refuses to offer you a reasonable settlement, you might need to pursue compensation through a motorcycle accident lawsuit. Most injury claims settle long before you need to consider filing suit. However, a lawyer might advise going to trial if they believe that’s the best way to seek the money you deserve.
Factors That Affect the Timeline of a Motorcycle Accident Claim
Here are a few of the factors that could impact the length of your motorcycle accident claim:
- The severity of your injuries
- Strength of the evidence
- How much compensation you are seeking
- Disputes over fault
- Whether you take your case to trial
Compensation in a South Carolina Motorcycle Accident Claim
Compensation after a South Carolina motorcycle wreck can include money for:
- Medical bills
- Incidental costs, such as mileage expenses from travel to medical appointments
- Lost wages or benefits
- Projected losses in your future earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Lost enjoyment of life
- Lost quality of life
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you or someone you love was injured in a motorcycle accident in South Carolina, contact Wilson Law Group, LLC today. Our team of talented motorcycle accident attorneys can review your case and discuss your rights to compensation in a free consultation. Call us now.