Malvern Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Rider holding motorcycle helmet

Motorcyclists are vulnerable on the road, and accidents can result in severe injuries. If a negligent driver caused your crash, Kingbird Legal is here to fight for you. Our Malvern motorcycle accident lawyer will pursue full compensation for your medical costs, lost income, and suffering. Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Call 484-289-4880 today for a free consultation, and let us help you recover.

Understanding the Timeline for Settling a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Pennsylvania

Motorcycle accidents often lead to severe injuries and complex legal claims. If you were injured in a crash, you may be wondering how long it will take to settle your case. The answer depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the insurance company’s response, and whether liability is disputed. While some claims are resolved in a few months, others take much longer.

Knowing what to expect can help you make informed decisions about your case. Here is a closer look at the key factors that determine how long a motorcycle accident claim may take to settle in Pennsylvania.

The Role of Medical Treatment

One of the biggest factors affecting settlement time is medical treatment. If your injuries are minor and heal quickly, the process may move faster. However, serious injuries often require ongoing treatment, and it is important to wait until you reach maximum medical improvement before settling.

Maximum medical improvement (MMI) is the point at which your condition has stabilized, and your doctors can determine whether you will need future care. Settling before reaching MMI could leave you without enough compensation for long-term medical expenses or lost wages.

If your injuries require surgery, rehabilitation, or long-term care, your claim may take longer to resolve. The insurance company will want a complete picture of your medical costs before making an offer.

Determining Liability and Gathering Evidence

Liability plays a major role in how long a claim takes to settle. In some cases, fault is clear, and the insurance company accepts responsibility quickly. Other times, the insurer may dispute liability, leading to delays.

If fault is contested, additional evidence may be needed to support your case. This could include police reports, witness statements, accident reconstruction, or video footage. The more evidence required, the longer the process may take.

Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the accident. If the insurance company tries to shift blame onto you, settlement discussions may take longer.

The Insurance Company’s Response

Insurance companies do not always settle claims quickly. Some adjusters respond promptly, while others delay the process in hopes that you will accept a lower offer.

In Pennsylvania, insurers are required to acknowledge claims within a reasonable time and make a decision within 30 days after receiving proof of loss. However, this does not mean they will offer a fair settlement immediately.

If the insurance company disputes medical bills, questions liability, or requests additional documentation, it can slow down negotiations. Having an attorney handle communications with the insurer can help prevent unnecessary delays.

The Impact of Negotiations

Many motorcycle accident claims involve negotiations between the injured party and the insurance company. The first offer is often lower than what the claim is worth. If you reject the initial offer, your lawyer will negotiate for a higher settlement.

Negotiations can take weeks or months, depending on the insurance company’s willingness to settle. If both sides reach an agreement quickly, the claim may resolve within a few months. However, if negotiations drag on, it could take longer.

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, filing a lawsuit may be necessary. This does not mean your case will go to trial, but it can extend the timeline.

What Happens if a Lawsuit Is Filed

If negotiations do not lead to a fair settlement, filing a lawsuit may be the next step. This adds time to the process, but it can also pressure the insurance company to settle.

Once a lawsuit is filed, both sides go through a legal process known as discovery. This includes gathering evidence, taking depositions, and exchanging documents. Discovery can take several months to a year, depending on the complexity of the case.

Most motorcycle accident lawsuits settle before reaching trial, but if a trial becomes necessary, it can add more time. Court schedules, motions, and other legal procedures can extend the process by months or even years.

How Long a Typical Motorcycle Accident Claim Takes

There is no fixed timeline for settling a motorcycle accident claim, but here is a general estimate based on different scenarios:

  • Minor injuries with clear liability – Settlement may take a few months if medical treatment is completed quickly and the insurance company does not dispute the claim.
  • Moderate injuries requiring ongoing care – The process may take six months to a year, depending on the length of treatment and negotiations.
  • Severe injuries with long-term effects – Cases involving permanent disability or extensive medical care may take a year or more, especially if future expenses must be considered.
  • Lawsuits and disputed liability – If the insurance company refuses to settle fairly and a lawsuit is filed, it could take one to three years to reach a resolution.

Every case is different, and the time frame will depend on the details of your claim.

Steps You Can Take to Speed Up the Process

While some factors are beyond your control, there are steps you can take to help move your case forward.

  • Seek medical attention immediately – Getting treatment right away not only helps your recovery but also provides documentation for your claim.
  • Follow your doctor’s recommendations – Completing treatment as prescribed prevents delays in determining medical costs.
  • Gather evidence early – Photos, witness statements, and accident reports should be collected as soon as possible.
  • Avoid delays in communication – Responding promptly to your lawyer and providing requested documents can keep the process on track.
  • Work with an experienced attorney – A lawyer can handle negotiations, push back against delays, and take legal action if necessary.

Getting the Compensation You Deserve

Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries, and settling a claim takes time. While you may want to resolve your case quickly, rushing the process could lead to a lower payout. It is important to ensure that any settlement covers your medical bills, lost wages, and future expenses.

Understanding the factors that influence settlement timelines can help you stay prepared and make informed decisions about your claim. If you have questions about your case, speaking with a lawyer can help you determine the best course of action.

Malvern Motorcycle Accident Attorney 

Motorcycle accidents can be life-changing, but you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Kingbird Legal is dedicated to helping injured motorcyclists get the compensation they deserve. Our Malvern motorcycle accident attorney will fight for your rights and financial recovery. Call 484-289-4880 today for a free consultation, and let us stand by your side every step of the way.