While wanting to know how long it will take to settle your motorcycle crash claim is one of the first questions most clients ask, it is not one that your attorney can give you a precise answer to. However, understanding these three factors that can make a case take longer to resolve can give you a better idea of how long it could take to settle yours.
Your Maximum Medical Recovery
You may be surprised to learn that your recovery from your injuries impacts on the timeframe to settle your case. You do not want to agree to a settlement until you reach your maximum medical recovery. This is the stage where you have fully recovered or recovered as much as you will, and your doctor can give you a prognosis on your future medical treatments.
You need to wait until this point in your recovery to have a better understanding of what your future medical expenses and wage losses will be. This ensures that you receive these amounts in your settlement. If you suffered a serious injury or more than one injury, it could take months or longer to reach this stage in your medical care.
Disputes With the Insurance Company
If the insurance company for the negligent driver disputes who caused the accident or the seriousness of your injuries, it could take your lawyer longer to settle your case. Arguments by the insurance company are more likely if you suffered long-term injuries that increase the value of your claim. Your attorney may have to collect additional evidence or hire an expert witness to refute the insurance company’s claims before they will agree to pay you what you are owed.
Litigation
Many motorcycle accident claims settle without litigation. However, if the insurance company refuses to be reasonable or the deadline to sue, referred to as the statute of limitations, will expire soon, your lawyer will file a lawsuit for you. Your case could still be resolved before a jury trial, but litigating your claim could increase the time it takes to reach a settlement.
Were you injured in a motorcycle collision caused by another driver? Our motorcycle accident legal team is here to fight with the insurance company for the compensation you deserve so that you can focus on recovering from your injuries. Call our Norfolk office to schedule a free consultation to learn more about how we can help you.
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