Despite all the progressive changes in motorcycle insurance over the last few decades, accidents still happen. People continue riding motorcycles even when they are “not feeling well” or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. As a result, the Arizona Department of Transportation reported that about 2,317 motorcycle accidents occurred in 2020, with 70 percent of all crashes occurring during the daytime.
Motorcycle accidents can often cause serious and expensive damages. You should receive medical attention if you have been injured in an accident involving another vehicle or a motorcycle rider. Waiting too long to file your lawsuit could harm your case and jeopardize your settlement.
We advise you to contact the motorcycle accident lawyers at Phillips Law Group as soon as possible.
What is the Statute of Limitations for a Motorcycle Accident in Arizona?
Each state in the country has its own statute of limitations. This is the amount of time that you have to file your case. For motorcycle accidents, this number can vary depending on the jurisdiction and state in which you are filing the claim. In Arizona, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a claim.
Arizona courts are very strict in enforcing statutes of limitations. Accident victims who file a case right after the statute of limitations will probably be denied and unable to file a claim for compensation for their losses.
Avoid making the mistake of handling the case on your own. You might make case-ruining mistakes like giving the insurance company a recorded statement. There is also a chance that your evidence could disappear, which would make it harder to build a strong case.
If you believe you have a claim against a liable party, we encourage you to contact our Arizona motorcycle accident lawyers as soon as possible. Phillips & Associates has extensive expertise in motorcycle personal injury cases. Our attorneys can assess the circumstances of your case and advise on how certain factors might affect the lawsuit.
How Long Does it Take to Settle a Motorcycle Accident Claim?
Settling a motorcycle accident claim can be a long and complicated process. It is essential to understand the factors that can affect how long it takes to settle a claim to ensure that you get the compensation you deserve. Understanding the factors that affect how long it takes to settle a claim, such as filing a lawsuit or hiring an attorney, is essential for getting the best outcome for your case.
Below are some factors that may affect how long it takes to settle your claim or lawsuit.
- The extent of the injuries
The time it can take to recover compensation depends on the extent of your injuries. If your injuries are minor, your attorney may not need as much time to settle as if you had suffered a catastrophic injury. However, if you require extensive medical treatment, it may take some time and collaboration with your healthcare provider to collect that much compensation.
You can be confident with a qualified attorney on your side. Phillips Law Group will work hard to get you the financial relief you require as soon as possible.
- Your economic and non-economic losses
The amount of time it takes to settle your motorcycle accident claim may depend on the losses you have suffered. Motorcycle accident victims may suffer a variety of economic and non-economic losses. If the accident has caused significant financial and emotional hardship, it may take your attorney longer to assess and collect adequate compensation.
Depending on the challenges the collision has caused you, a motorcycle accident lawyer may seek compensation for:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Vehicle repair or replacement expenses
- Lost wages or earning ability
Unlike economic damages, non-economic losses are intangible losses that do not have a concrete monetary value. These losses may include pain and suffering, mental distress, or diminished quality of life. Your lawyer is responsible for assigning monetary value to your non-economic losses and seeking adequate compensation.
- The number of people that were involved in the accident
Motorcycle accident lawsuits and claims involving several drivers may take longer than usual to settle. If there are multiple drivers involved in your case, there will be more contact and collaboration between the various individuals, their attorneys, and insurance companies. The more people involved, the more evidence your attorney will need to collect, which can add a substantial amount of time to the length of your lawsuit.
- The at-fault party was under the influence of drugs or alcohol
If you were a passenger or a pedestrian and were injured in an accident involving an intoxicated motorcycle operator, you can file a claim or lawsuit against the individual responsible. Your attorney must demonstrate the at-fault party failed to use reasonable caution at the time of the incident and that this failure was the direct cause of your injuries.
Gathering the required proof to prove this claim will take more time and resources. As a result, the duration of your case will be lengthened.
- Cooperation from the insurance company
Insurance companies are often reluctant to pay out for motorcycle accidents, which can lead to lengthy claims processes. While you would assume insurance companies would have your best interests at heart, they are notorious for giving lowball settlements. If your insurer is hesitant to pay the amount requested by your attorney, you may be faced with weeks or months of discussions.
- The decision to pursue your claim in court
Motorcycle accidents can be very costly, and it can take a long time to get a settlement. In case an insurer refuses to make a reasonable settlement offer, you may have to go to trial.
A court case will certainly lengthen the time it takes to resolve your motorcycle accident case. However, a skilled personal injury attorney can use his or her courtroom experience to secure a result as soon as possible. A trial can also help protect you and your loved ones from future lawsuits.
Why You Should Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney as Soon as You Are Injured
An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can be a great help in assisting you in obtaining compensation. He or she can walk you through the process, being well-versed in the state’s court procedures and personal injury cases.
Your attorney will also gather as much information as possible to develop your case. A thorough record of what happened at the scene and during the accident will make obtaining a settlement from the other party much easier.
When a claim is filed, the other party will normally respond by either admitting guilt or denying responsibility. After this, the parties involved will attempt to reach an agreement without going to court. Your attorney will facilitate these negotiations and communicate with the other party, their lawyer, and the insurance company on your behalf.
Additionally, an attorney may be able to assist you in other ways, such as helping you receive medical treatment as soon as possible. Hiring an attorney as soon as you are injured can help alleviate the stress and frustration after an accident.
Contact Our Arizona Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Today
As your motorcycle accident attorneys, we understand what you are going through. The Arizona accident attorneys at Phillips Law Group are here to help you in whatever way we can. We are ready to tackle your case and help you get the compensation you need. A qualified lawyer will actively review the details of your case to identify the cause of the accident and hold any parties liable for your injuries.
Whether you have been injured in an accident or you are seeking help for someone you know, we are here to help. We believe this is the best way to protect your rights, and we will work hard to identify the most responsible party and ensure you are protected.
Schedule your free consultation with us today. Fill out the online form or call us today.