Motorcycle wrecks can be catastrophic and even deadly. The damages incurred from these types of crashes are typically significant. If you were struck by a careless driver while out riding your motorcycle, you may be eligible for financial compensation.
Our seasoned attorneys will explain how motorcycle accident settlements in Columbus work and assess the potential value of your damages. Before you talk with the insurance company, we strongly encourage you to see advice from an experienced motorcycle accident attorney with our firm. We will protect your rights and negotiate for the settlement you deserve.
Does the Statute of Limitations Apply to Settlement Claims?
There are strict time restrictions that apply to any personal injury claim filed with an Ohio court, including those involving motorcycle accident injuries. It is essential to adhere to these filing deadlines if you wish to recover compensation. According to Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10, a two year filing period starts on the day of the crash. In most cases, if a claim is filed against the responsible party after the legal deadline has expired, the injured motorcyclist no longer has the right to sue for damages.
Settlement Value for a Motorcycle Crash
A multitude of factors ultimately determine the value of someone’s settlement after a Columbus motorcycle collision. One of the most common situations in which a wreck occurs is when a negligent driver hits a motorcyclist. In this situation, the driver would be liable for damages, and the injured motorcyclist can file a claim with their insurance company seeking compensation. However, insurance policies have certain limits, which will ultimately impact the amount of payment the motorcyclist can recover if they settle the claim.
The value of an injury settlement is directly tied to the losses the motorcyclist sustains as the result of the crash. If an injured motorcyclist hires one of our attorneys to handle their case, we will assess the full breadth of their economic and non-economic damages to determine the amount to request in a settlement demand. Economic damages include monetary losses like property damage, hospital bills, and lost income, while non-economic damages include pain, suffering, and mental anguish.
All of these damages would be added up and included in the insurance settlement demand. While economic damages have a fixed dollar amount attached to them, non-economic damages are more difficult to determine. Therefore, it is usually best to work with an experienced attorney from our firm who can help determine the value of these damages.
Is Settling Faster Than Going to Trial in Columbus?
Since each case differs, there is no specific length of time in which a motorcycle wreck settlement in Columbus may be reached. The duration of time the injured motorcyclist requires medical treatment and the ability for the two parties to reach a settlement agreement are two factors that could impact the length of the case. A case settled out of court may take up to a year or longer to conclude. If a claim proceeds to litigation, this could take a few years before a settlement is reached.
If someone agrees to a settlement for their motorcycle accident claim, they will sign a release stating that the insurance company is no longer liable to them. They would then receive their compensation, either in a lump sum or in structured payments. In most cases, once someone consents to settle the case they no longer have the ability to sue for damages. Therefore it is important to speak to an experienced attorney to make sure that you do not settle without getting the full compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Call a Columbus Lawyer About Your Motorcycle Accident Settlement
It is highly advisable to consult with a well-practiced attorney about your legal options if you were recently involved in an accident while riding your motorcycle. Motorcycle accident settlements in Columbus require an experienced hand to ensure the injured party is properly compensated. Our team can help you bring a claim for damages if someone else caused your motorcycle accident. Call today to book a free consultation.
