Autor: Shelby Benavidez 

TL;DR: Key Takeaways 

  • A motorcycle crash lawsuit follows a series of steps, typically beginning with an investigation and ending in a settlement or verdict 
  • Most cases settle before trial, often during negotiations or mediation 
  • Liability (fault) and damages in motorcycle accident lawsuits are the foundation of every case 
  • Motorcycle cases can be more complex due to bias against riders and severe injuries 
  • Settlement timelines vary, but rushing to finalize your case typically leads to money left on the table 
  • An experienced attorney can guide you through the motorcycle accident legal process steps and maximize your recovery 

After a motorcycle accident, most people aren’t immediately thinking about filing a lawsuit. Their only concern is likely to get through the day. Doctor visits, missed work, dealing with pain… that all comes first. 

But at some point, the question shifts from “Am I okay?” to “What happens next?” 

Insurance adjusters will start sending offers, medical bills will continue to mount up, and you may quickly realize the offer you’re getting isn’t going to cover those bills. The motorcycle crash lawsuit process isn’t something most people are familiar with, and there’s a lot of mixed information out there about timelines, settlements, and what to expect. 

Here’s what every motorcyclist needs to know about how a motorcycle crash lawsuit works, so you can better understand what to expect and how to protect yourself moving forward. 

Understanding Motorcycle Crashes and Risks 

Motorcycle Crash and Safety Statistics 

Motorcycle riders face significantly higher risks on the road compared to drivers of passenger vehicles. According to national data, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to be seriously injured or killed in a crash. 

Motorcycles can be dangerous in a crash because they offer less protection. There’s no steel frame, no airbags – just you, your gear, and the road. What might be considered a minor accident between two cars can quickly become much more serious for a motorcyclist. Even a small bump from another vehicle can cause a bike to lose balance, tip over, and throw the rider onto the road. 

This is why many motorcyclists need a motorcycle accident attorney after a crash. Insurance companies may try to downplay what happened, suggesting the impact was minor, so injuries can’t really be that serious. But as we’ve discussed, it doesn’t take much force to cause significant harm on a motorcycle. 

What is the #1 Cause of Motorcycle Accidents? 

One of the leading causes of motorcycle crashes is driver error, which is true for most types of accidents. Many motorcycle accidents happen when a driver turns left in front of an oncoming rider, misjudging their speed or just failing to see them altogether.  

Other common scenarios include drivers changing lanes without checking their blind spots, following too closely, or simply not noticing a motorcycle in traffic. Motorcycles are smaller and easier to overlook, but that doesn’t excuse careless driving. Drivers have a responsibility to double-check for motorcycles before making a move. 

What is the Most Common Injury in a Motorcycle Accident? 

Motorcycle crashes frequently result in life-altering injuries such as full-body road rash, multiple broken bones, and spinal cord damage. However, the most common injury in a motorcycle accident is head and brain injuries – even while wearing a helmet. Helmets are proven to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries, yet in 2023, 64% of riders involved in fatal crashes were wearing helmets. 

Motorcycle Crash Lawsuit Timeline 

Motorcycle Accident Claim Process 

In a perfect scenario, an attorney would be your second call after 911. Once an attorney is signed to your case, the motorcycle accident claim process can begin. 

1. Medical Treatment

    After any crash, especially on a motorcycle, you should always seek medical treatment. Even if you think you’re fine, some internal injuries take time to start showing symptoms. Getting medical care as soon as possible will help protect your health and your claim. In fact, medical treatment is the main driver of your claim – it can’t go anywhere until you start treatment. A motorcycle accident attorney needs to understand the full extent of your injuries before they can determine what “full value” really is in your case. 

    2. Investigation

    While you continue with treatment, the motorcycle accident investigation process begins. Your attorney will start gathering police reports, witness statements, photos, and possibly expert analysis. An experienced and qualified attorney may hire private investigators to help collect evidence that isn’t immediately available. 

    3. Insurance Demand

    Once your doctor has conducted a thorough analysis of your injuries and develops a treatment plan, your attorney will compile your medical records and all evidence to draft a demand. This is a letter to the at-fault driver’s insurance company outlining your injuries, damages, and a specific dollar amount that would make you whole. 

    4. Negotiation 

      Unfortunately, not all insurance companies offer full value right away. More likely than not, they will send a counteroffer. In this stage, there will probably be a lot of back-and-forth between the insurance company and your attorney. 

      5. Filing a Lawsuit (if needed) 

        If negotiations are unproductive or have completely stalled, your attorney should formally file a motorcycle crash lawsuit. If your attorney is unwilling to file a lawsuit, this may be a red flag. Any confident attorney will be trial ready, even if your case doesn’t make it all the way to trial. 

        6. Discovery Phase

        During the discovery phase, both sides exchange evidence and information they may use if the case goes to trial. This can include documents, medical records, and witness details. It also often involves depositions, which are sworn, out-of-court testimonies from the rider, drivers, and other witnesses. These depositions give attorneys the opportunity to gather more information, evaluate credibility, and refine their strategy moving forward. 

        7. Mediation 

          Even after a lawsuit is filed, negotiations will continue up until your actual trial date. Mediation is a last-ditch effort to reach a settlement before taking your case in front of a judge or jury. Both sides will meet (usually in separate locations), while a neutral third-party mediator goes back and forth between them, helping facilitate discussions and work toward a resolution. 

          The mediator doesn’t make a decision or force either side to agree. Instead, they help both parties better understand the strengths and weaknesses of the case, clarify any misunderstandings, and explore whether a fair settlement can be reached. Many cases are resolved during mediation. 

          8. Trial 

            If mediation and negotiations are unsuccessful, your case will go to trial. There are two types of trials: a bench trial, where a judge decides the final verdict, and a jury trial, where a jury of 12 volunteers decides the final verdict. While a trial may sound scary, it’s sometimes necessary to make sure you are getting every penny that you deserve for your injuries. 

            Understanding these motorcycle accident legal process steps can make the experience feel far less intimidating. 

            How Long Do Motorcycle Accident Settlements Take? 

            We’re asked this question a lot, but the unfortunate truth is that it’s impossible to say. No reputable attorney will make a promise to have your case resolved within a certain time frame because that would mean leaving money on the table.  

            Some cases settle in a few months, while others take a year or more. It all depends on the severity of your injuries, your treatment plan, whether fault is disputed, and whether the insurance company is willing to cooperate. 

            In general, cases take longer when they’re more complex, but those are often the cases where patience can lead to a much higher motorcycle accident lawsuit settlement. It may feel tempting to accept a lowball offer to just put the case behind you, but doing so may cost you thousands in the long run. Once you accept a settlement offer – that’s it. Your case is closed forever. You can’t go back and ask for more money if your injuries continue to worsen. 

            At What Stage Do Most Lawsuits Settle? 

            In general, almost all personal injury lawsuits reach a settlement. Only about 4% of cases make it to trial. Again, this is due to the fact that trials are risky for insurance companies. They spend more time and resources taking a case to trial, and juries are unpredictable. Trials are typically a last resort. 

            Compensation in Motorcycle Crash Lawsuits 

            How Much Are Most Motorcycle Accident Settlements? 

            Unfortunately, there isn’t a universal amount for motorcycle accident lawsuit settlements. Every case is different, and the value of a motorcycle accident settlement can vary depending on medical expenses, lost wages, long-term treatment or disability, the overall impact on your life, and how much coverage is available. Some cases resolve for thousands, while others reach millions. It really just depends on each unique case. 

            What is a Good Settlement Figure? 

            We can’t put a dollar amount to what you should expect from a motorcycle accident settlement. However, a “good” settlement figure would make you whole again. It should account for the full impact of your injuries, future medical care if necessary, and how your life has changed because of someone else’s negligence. 

            Insurance companies may offer quick settlements, but those offers are often lower than what your case is truly worth. Taking the time to fully understand your damages in motorcycle accident lawsuits is key to avoiding a shortchanged result. 

            Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney 

            If you were injured in a motorcycle crash, we highly encourage you to reach out to a qualified motorcycle accident attorney. Trying to get your life back on track should be your top priority – let an attorney handle the rest. 

            An experienced attorney can handle the motorcycle accident claim process from start to finish. They will gather strong evidence during the motorcycle accident investigation process, negotiate aggressively with insurance companies on your behalf, and help you pursue the maximum compensation available. Most motorcycle accident attorneys offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless you win your case. You never have to pull out your checkbook, so don’t let the fear of cost hold you back from getting the help you deserve. 

            Final Thoughts: Filing a Motorcycle Crash Lawsuit 

            A motorcycle crash can redefine your entire life. And the legal process that follows isn’t just about paperwork or timelines. It’s about rebuilding, recovering, and making sure you’re not left carrying the financial burden of someone else’s mistake. 

            The truth is, the motorcycle accident legal process steps are easier to handle when you understand what’s happening and why. Clarity brings confidence, and confidence helps you make better decisions at every stage. 

            If you or someone you love has been injured, don’t wait to explore your options. A knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney can walk you through your case, answer your questions, and help you move forward with a clear plan. 

            Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Crash Lawsuits 

            What is the time limit for a motorcycle accident claim? 

            The time limit to file a claim, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state. However, it’s typically two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue a motorcycle crash lawsuit entirely. 

            What evidence is used in motorcycle accident cases? 

            Common evidence includes police reports, medical records, photos, witness statements, and expert testimony gathered during the motorcycle accident investigation process. 

            Do all motorcycle accident cases go to court? 

            No. Most cases settle before trial, often during negotiation or mediation. 

            How are damages calculated in motorcycle accident lawsuit settlements? 

            Damages typically include medical expenses, lost income, and the full impact the injury had on your life. While the insurance company uses a formula to calculate a settlement offer, a qualified attorney won’t stop until you get the full value you deserve. 

            How long does the motorcycle accident claim process take? 

            It varies. Some cases resolve in months, while more complex cases can take a year or longer. 

            Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault? 

            In many states, yes. However, compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault, depending on local laws.