Bicycle Accident Lawsuit Timeline: What to Expect

Understanding the timeline of a bicycle accident lawsuit helps you plan financially and emotionally. Most cases settle within 6-18 months, but complex cases can take longer.

Phase 1: Initial Steps (Days 1-30)

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Week 1

• Get medical treatment

• Report accident to police

• Preserve evidence

• Consult with attorney

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Weeks 2-4

• Attorney investigates

• Preservation letters sent

• Medical records gathered

• Insurance claims filed

Phase 2: Treatment & Investigation (Months 1-6)

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Ongoing Medical Care Your attorney will advise when you've reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) before settling.

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Investigation Activities

• Accident reconstruction

• Witness interviews

• Expert consultations

• Record collection

Phase 3: Demand & Negotiation (Months 6-12)

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Demand Package Your attorney sends a comprehensive demand including:

• Liability analysis

• Medical records and bills

• Lost wage documentation

• Pain and suffering narrative

• Settlement demand

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Insurance Response Insurer has 30-60 days to respond.

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Negotiation Back-and-forth until settlement or impasse.

Phase 4: Litigation (If Needed)

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Filing Lawsuit

• Complaint filed

• Defendant has 30 days to answer

• Case management conference scheduled

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Discovery (6-12 months)

• Written questions (interrogatories)

• Document requests

• Depositions

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Mediation Court-ordered or voluntary settlement attempt.

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Trial If no settlement, 2-5 day jury trial.

Factors Affecting Timeline

- Injury severity and treatment length

• Insurance company cooperation

• Liability disputes

• Court backlog

• Number of defendants