How Long After a Motorcycle Accident Should I Wait to File Suit?

Perhaps you or someone you know has recently been in a motorcycle accident, and for that we are sorry if that is the case. With someone injured or killed in an accident, you might not be thinking too heavily about the legal process. Going through a long suit during recovery is a painful process that might be incredibly stressful to you, but we cannot stress the importance enough: go seek an experienced attorney as soon as possible.

The statute of limitations on lawsuits is generally 4 years from the date of the accident. While this seems like a long time, there are other factors to consider about your suit as well. If you need an expert witness or other evidence that needs to be reconstructed, that takes time. Another concern is reviewing all of the details for their accuracy. Calling an experienced attorney immediately is in your favor.

Sweat the Details

People are forgetful creatures. What did you have for lunch last Wednesday? If you can’t remember, then the chances are that the details of your accident that you remember now won’t be fresh after a longer period of time. How fast were you going? Did you use your signal? Did the other party? What was the time of day? What were the conditions? Speaking to an attorney will not only allow for you to get all of these details right as soon as possible, but keep them in a record with someone who wants to get you compensation for your injury. The details matter—don’t lose them!

Don't Slow Your Momentum

As time goes on from the date of your accident, you might be tempted to think that the problems that you have aren’t that bad, or that seeking compensation is too much of a hassle to bother with. If you’re an optimist (or any sane person, really), you’ll want to get back to feeling better as soon as possible. While this is admirable in a way, if you’re entitled to compensation it would be better to seek help and obtain it rather than letting it go for the sake of feeling better. There are medical issues from motorcycle accidents and the injuries you or your loved one have sustained that might not show up immediately. Don’t sell yourself short. In the long run, it’s worth it. If you lose your ability to work, raise your kids, or otherwise enjoy your life, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Seeking the Help Is Free

At most law firms (including our own), consultations regarding your injury are free. Often, these firms don’t even charge you for our services unless we win. While the details are fresh and in your mind and while you are resolved to seek this help, go and take care of the problem. Remember, attorneys are people too: we care about what’s happened to you. We want to see you healthy as much as the next guy, and if there is something that we can do about it to help that process along, we are more than willing to assist. If you have any questions, don’t hesistate to seek that help. It’s low risk and no cost to you in most cases. What do you have to lose?

We know it’s painful to have been involved in an accident, especially a motorcycle accident, and we know that you’d like to get to feeling better—anyone would. Don’t let your injury get to you or keep you from getting the help that you need.