Knowing how long you have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit can make or break your ability to recover what you need. Most riders in West Virginia have two years to sue, but some cases involve shorter or longer timeframes depending on the facts. Your Charleston motorcycle accident lawyer with Salango Law can walk you through what applies to your situation and help you protect your right to recover.
Call us today to set up a free case review with a legal professional.
Why Filing Deadlines Are Critical After a Motorcycle Crash
Filing deadlines matter more than most people realize. A statute of limitations sets the legal time limit for starting a lawsuit, and missing it often means your case will not be heard at all. Even if you have strong evidence and serious injuries, waiting too long can close the door on your right to sue.
How Much Time You Typically Have to File in West Virginia
Most riders in West Virginia have two years from the date of the crash to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit. Under West Virginia Code § 55-2-12, this two-year deadline usually begins on the day the injury occurred. In some situations, the clock may start later if the injuries were not immediately clear or if the victim was underage.
What Can Happen If You Wait Too Long to File
If you miss the deadline, the court may automatically dismiss your claim, and insurance companies will have no reason to negotiate. It does not matter how badly you were hurt or how clear the other driver’s fault may be. Only in rare cases, like fraud or medical incapacity, can a late filing still move forward.
Why Choose Salango Law After a Motorcycle Accident
After a motorcycle crash, timing and experience both matter. Our firm helps you take quick, informed steps before the deadline passes. Here is how we support you at every stage of your claim:
- We understand how motorcycle crash claims work from the first phone call through the final resolution.
- We do not let insurance delay tactics derail your timeline or stall your case.
- We have decades of courtroom and negotiation experience on behalf of injured riders.
- We fight for riders and their families every step of the way, whether your case settles or goes to trial.
What Affects How Long You Have to Sue After a Motorcycle Crash
Several outside factors can affect how much time you have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit. Things like insurance complications, delayed treatment, or confusion about fault can shift the timeline more than most people realize. Our firm helps you understand these challenges early, so they do not interfere with your case.
Time Limit Differences When Multiple Vehicles or a Car Accident Are Involved
When more than one vehicle is part of the car accident, filing deadlines can become less predictable. You may have to deal with multiple insurance companies, unclear fault assignments, or parties with different roles in the crash. That can take extra time to figure out, and every delay makes it harder to protect your rights, making contacting our Charleston car accident attorneys so vital to get you the speedy justice you deserve.
Insurance Issues, Medical Delays, and Filing Strategy
Delays in treatment or slow-moving insurance investigations can complicate how your timeline unfolds. Your personal injury case may be affected by how quickly your medical providers submit documentation or how long insurers take to review claims. Under West Virginia Code § 55-7-13d, shared fault may also affect the outcome, especially when several parties point fingers at each other to avoid liability.
Talk to a Lawyer Before Your Motorcycle Crash Timeline Expires
Your motorcycle accident attorney from Salango Law can help you understand how much time you have to file and what steps to take next. We know how delays, paperwork, or insurance issues can get in the way, and we are here to help you avoid missteps that could cost you your claim. If you are ready to take the next step, contact us today before your window to act closes.