Fact-Checked: Why Trust Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, one of the first questions you’re likely to have is, “How long will it take to settle the case?”
Unfortunately, there’s no set answer to this question. While some cases can be handled in a few months, others can take a couple of years (or more) to resolve – especially if the case goes to trial.
Understanding the factors that influence your settlement timeline can help you set realistic expectations and make informed decisions as you move forward. It’s important to know, however, that Ohio law gives you only two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. This is called the statute of limitations. If you miss this deadline, you will generally lose your right to seek any compensation for your injuries and losses. With this in mind, it’s wise to seek legal guidance early on – even if you don’t intend to file a lawsuit immediately. That way, you preserve your rights for the future.
What factors affect the timeline of a motorcycle accident case?
Several key issues can speed up or slow down the settlement process after a motorcycle accident:
1. The severity of your injuries
One of the biggest factors affecting the timeline of your case is how seriously you were hurt. If your injuries require long-term treatment, you may need to wait until the full extent of your permanent injuries and future medical needs are known. Settling too early could mean you accept an amount that doesn’t cover your ongoing care or future complications.
2. The need to gather evidence
A strong case depends on solid evidence – such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, accident reconstruction and more. Some of this information can be gathered quickly, while other elements (like expert testimony or video footage) may take more time. The evidence may take even longer to develop if there are several parties involved, which can happen in multi-vehicle wrecks.
3. Disputes over liability
If it’s not clear who caused the accident – or if the other side simply disputes their fault – this can significantly delay the settlement process. Ohio follows a comparative fault system, meaning your settlement could be reduced if you’re found partially at fault. Disagreements over liability often require deeper investigation or even litigation to resolve. Clear-cut liability will make a claim easier to settle, but many people (and their insurers) can be reluctant to accept blame.
4. The insurer’s willingness to cooperate
Some insurance companies are willing to negotiate in good faith and settle quickly. Others may delay, outright deny or offer lowball settlements in the hopes you’ll give up or accept less than you’re owed. You may need to go through multiple rounds of negotiation to get a fair offer. Some insurers may not even take you seriously until a formal lawsuit is filed.
5. Court scheduling and delays
Litigation adds time—often a year or more—but sometimes it’s the only way to recover the compensation you deserve. Once a lawsuit is filed, the court’s calendar becomes a factor. Some counties in Ohio move cases through quickly; others have heavier caseloads and longer wait times for hearings and trials. Post-pandemic backlogs have also affected some local court systems.
Patience is golden – and the payoff can be worth it
It’s only natural to want a quick resolution after a motorcycle accident, but rushing the process can result in an unfair settlement that doesn’t fully account for your injuries, lost wages or pain and suffering. A good attorney will take the time to build the strongest possible case on your behalf and avoid costly mistakes that can come from a hurried process.