A motorcycle crash in Columbia Heights can change a life in seconds. Riders face unique exposure on busy stretches like Central Avenue NE and 37th Avenue, where visibility issues, sudden lane changes, and distracted driving often collide. Medical bills, missed work, and insurance pressure can arrive almost as fast as the ambulance. Metro Law Offices helps riders and families navigate the legal steps that follow a collision in Anoka County and throughout Minnesota. We focus on building clear, persuasive claims grounded in evidence, local knowledge, and steady communication, so you can focus on healing while we handle insurers and paperwork.
Our motorcycle accident representation centers on practical guidance, careful investigation, and respectful service. We explain your rights in plain language, outline the timeline, and keep you updated, start to finish. Whether the crash involved a left‑turn driver, a rideshare vehicle, or a hazardous roadway, we work to uncover fault and pursue the full measure of compensation the law allows. If you were injured in Columbia Heights or the surrounding communities, we invite you to reach out for a free case review at 651-615-3322. There is no obligation, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
Motorcycle claims require careful attention to visibility, stopping distances, road design, and the way protective gear affects injury patterns. Insurance companies often dispute lane position, speed, and evasive actions, which can reduce or delay a fair settlement. Having a team that understands these rider‑specific issues helps level the field. We collect key evidence early, preserve witness statements, and consult appropriate resources to present a clear story of what happened and why. Our approach aims to reduce your stress, protect your rights, and pursue compensation for medical care, wage loss, pain and suffering, and future needs tied to the crash.
Metro Law Offices is a Minnesota personal injury firm serving riders in Columbia Heights and across Anoka County. Our team has spent years advocating for injured people following collisions involving cars, trucks, and unsafe roads. We bring steady negotiation skills, thorough case preparation, and respectful client service to every matter. You will receive timely updates, direct answers, and guidance tailored to your goals. We handle the paperwork and insurer communications so you can focus on recovery. Initial consultations are free, and there are no fees unless we recover compensation. Call 651-615-3322 to discuss your situation and learn your options.
Minnesota law allows injured riders to pursue compensation when another party’s careless conduct causes harm. Motorcycle cases often differ from standard auto claims because coverage types, medical payments, and no‑fault rules can work differently for riders. The process typically begins with a claim against the at‑fault driver’s liability insurer and may involve your own coverage, including uninsured or underinsured motorist protection. Building a persuasive claim requires medical documentation, proof of lost income, repair or total loss valuations, and statements that clarify how the crash occurred. Timelines can vary, but prompt attention to evidence can make a meaningful difference.
Columbia Heights claims may involve local police reports, nearby cameras, intersection timing data, and witness accounts from commuters who know the corridors well. Insurance adjusters will review photos, damage patterns, and medical records, often searching for statements to limit payment. We help you understand what to say, when to provide documents, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Along the way, we coordinate with your healthcare providers to track treatment and connect injuries to the collision. Our aim is to present a clear, evidence‑based claim that reflects your day‑to‑day losses and the longer‑term impact the crash has had on your life.
A motorcycle injury claim is a request for compensation from the party responsible for causing your injuries, typically through their insurance company. Minnesota negligence law requires showing a duty of care, a breach of that duty, and that the breach caused your damages. Riders may seek payment for medical treatment, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, repair or replacement of the bike, and pain and suffering. Minnesota treats motorcycles differently than passenger vehicles under certain insurance rules, so your available benefits can vary. We evaluate coverage, fault, and damages, then assemble evidence to support a fair settlement or prepare for litigation if needed.
Every strong motorcycle claim rests on timely evidence and clear documentation. We look for photographs, dash or security video, witness statements, police narratives, and accurate injury records. We also examine intersections, traffic controls, and road maintenance history when relevant. From there, we communicate with insurers, prepare a demand package summarizing liability and damages, and pursue settlement. If negotiations stall, we consider filing suit within the legal deadline and continue building your case. Throughout, we keep you informed on timelines, options, and potential outcomes so you can choose the path that best fits your recovery and financial needs.
Clear language helps you make confident choices. Understanding common insurance and legal terms can reduce confusion and prevent costly mistakes. When we explain coverage, liability, and damages, we aim to connect definitions to your day‑to‑day concerns, like paying medical bills or repairing your bike. The following terms regularly appear in Columbia Heights motorcycle claims and provide a helpful foundation for discussing strategy, settlement, or the decision to file a lawsuit when negotiations do not lead to a fair result.
Negligence is the legal concept at the core of most motorcycle claims. It means a person failed to use reasonable care and, as a result, caused harm. In riding cases, negligence can involve unsafe left turns, lane changes without checking mirrors, speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield. To prove negligence, we connect a driver’s conduct to the crash mechanism and then to your injuries and losses. Evidence like photos, skid marks, impact points, and medical records helps tell this story. Establishing negligence is essential for recovering compensation from the at‑fault party’s insurance company in Minnesota.
The statute of limitations is the legal deadline for filing a lawsuit. If this deadline passes, you can lose the right to pursue your claim in court. In Minnesota, timelines can vary based on the claim type, parties involved, and coverage issues, which makes early evaluation important. While many cases settle without litigation, negotiations sometimes take time, and evidence can be harder to gather as months go by. Prompt action allows for proper investigation, preserves witness memories, and keeps your options open if reasonable settlement talks break down. We track deadlines and keep your case moving forward.
Comparative fault addresses how responsibility is divided when more than one party contributes to a crash. In Minnesota, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your share of fault, and recovery is generally allowed if you are not more at fault than the other party or parties combined. Insurers sometimes overstate a rider’s percentage based on visibility arguments or speculation about speed. We push back with evidence such as sight‑line analysis, vehicle damage patterns, and credible witness accounts. Understanding comparative fault helps set realistic expectations and guides strategy during negotiation or, if necessary, in court.
Damages are the harms and losses you can claim after a motorcycle crash. They include medical expenses, future care needs, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and property damage. Non‑economic damages cover pain, emotional distress, and the way injuries limit daily activities and enjoyment of life. In severe cases, long‑term rehabilitation or adaptive equipment may be part of the claim. Clear documentation connects each category of damages to the collision and your recovery journey. We gather bills, records, employer statements, and photographs to present a complete picture, then advocate for a resolution that reflects both present and future needs.
After a Columbia Heights motorcycle accident, you can handle the claim on your own, seek limited help, or hire full legal representation. Self‑representation may feel faster, but insurers often control the pace and can pressure you to settle before the full impact is known. Limited assistance can help with demand letters or document review, while a full approach addresses liability, damages, deadlines, and negotiation from start to finish. The best path depends on injury severity, fault disputes, and your comfort with insurers and paperwork. We offer a free consultation to help you evaluate which approach fits your goals.
If injuries resolve quickly, property damage is modest, and the other driver’s fault is undisputed, limited guidance may meet your needs. In these situations, the focus is on documenting urgent care visits, short follow‑up treatment, and a straightforward repair or total loss valuation. A concise demand package can sometimes lead to a fair outcome without extensive advocacy. We can still review your draft, flag gaps, and suggest improvements so you present a coherent claim. The goal is to prevent mistakes, protect your rights, and avoid settling before you understand how you feel after completing reasonable medical care.
Some riders only need targeted help understanding available coverage, such as uninsured or underinsured motorist benefits, medical payments, or property damage options. If liability is clear but paperwork is confusing, brief counsel can clarify which policies apply, how to submit bills, and when to involve your own insurer. This approach can reduce delays and make sure you do not miss applicable benefits. Even in a limited role, we encourage riders to keep thorough records, follow treatment recommendations, and avoid recorded statements without preparation, since small missteps can still affect the value and timing of a settlement.
When fractures, head injuries, or lasting pain are involved, the stakes rise quickly. Insurers may challenge how the crash occurred, question helmet use, or point to pre‑existing conditions to reduce payment. Comprehensive representation brings organized investigation, credible experts when necessary, and a complete damages presentation that connects the collision to your medical needs and life changes. We manage deadlines, negotiate with multiple carriers, and prepare for litigation if required. The aim is to protect your claim’s value at every stage, so you are not pushed into accepting a settlement that overlooks ongoing care or future limitations.
Crashes involving commercial vehicles, road hazards, or rideshare drivers can create overlapping policies and shared responsibility. Coordinating claims across several insurers requires careful tracking and consistent advocacy to avoid blame‑shifting that leaves you underpaid. We analyze coverage layers, preserve roadway evidence, and pursue all responsible parties within the applicable deadlines. This approach helps ensure that no available source of recovery is missed. With clear updates and a strategy tailored to your goals, we manage the complexity so you can concentrate on healing, knowing that your claim is being advanced methodically and with attention to long‑term needs.
A comprehensive approach aligns investigation, medical documentation, and negotiation from day one. By gathering photos, witness accounts, and treatment records early, we protect against disputes that can surface months later. Coordinating with your providers helps ensure injuries are accurately documented and that your treatment plan is reflected in the claim. This continuity supports a settlement that addresses both current expenses and likely future needs. It also reduces the risk of miscommunication with insurers and keeps your claim on a predictable timeline, giving you more confidence as you make decisions about work, family, and recovery.
Comprehensive representation also helps control the narrative surrounding liability and damages. When we lead communications, we can correct misunderstandings, push back on unfair assumptions, and present a cohesive story about how the crash happened and what it has cost you. If negotiations stall, your file is already organized for litigation, which can save time and strengthen your position in court. Throughout, you receive updates that explain options in plain language, so you can choose a path that fits your goals while knowing your claim is being advanced with care and persistence.
Early evidence can fade quickly. Tire marks wash away, vehicles are repaired, and witnesses move on. A comprehensive strategy prioritizes timely preservation of photos, video, and statements that show lane position, sight lines, and impact points. We request nearby camera footage, analyze vehicle damage, and secure records that support your account. This foundation strengthens liability arguments and counters speculative defenses about speed or visibility. By acting promptly, we reduce later disputes and create a clear picture of the crash that supports fair negotiation, while keeping the option to file suit if the insurer refuses to be reasonable.
Thorough damages documentation goes beyond immediate medical bills. It includes future care, therapy, lost income, reduced earning capacity, and the personal impact that injuries have on daily life. We work with your providers to connect treatment to the crash and gather proof like employer statements, mileage logs, and photographs that illustrate your limitations. This complete picture prevents undervaluation and helps resist pressure to settle before you understand the long‑term effects. When every category of loss is supported, insurers have less room to argue, and juries—if needed—receive a clear, credible story about how the crash changed your life.
If you can do so safely, take wide and close photos that show lanes, signals, skid marks, debris, and damage to all vehicles. Capture the position of the bike and the other vehicle, nearby signage, and any visual obstructions. Ask witnesses for contact information and note nearby businesses that might have cameras. Preserve your helmet, jacket, and torn clothing without repairs, as these items can help explain forces and injuries. Early documentation anchors your story with real‑world details and helps prevent later disputes about lane position, speed, or evasive actions suggested by an insurance adjuster.
Insurers often request recorded statements soon after a crash. While cooperation is important, early statements can be used to minimize your claim if details are incomplete or symptoms have not fully developed. Before agreeing to a recording, get advice on what information is appropriate to share and what should wait until records are available. Keep descriptions factual and avoid speculation about speed or fault. When we handle communications, we help you provide accurate information at the right time, protecting your claim’s value while keeping the process moving toward fair resolution.
Motorcycle crashes can bring sudden medical costs, transportation problems, and time away from work. Many riders call because they want a clear plan and someone to manage insurers while they heal. Our team explains the process in plain language, outlines your options, and helps you avoid quick settlements that do not reflect the full impact of your injuries. We handle evidence, deadlines, and negotiations so you are not left navigating complex rules alone. From the first call, our goal is to bring order to a difficult situation and pursue compensation that supports your recovery.
Local familiarity matters when gathering records, understanding road layouts, and communicating with area providers and adjusters. We know the rhythms of traffic in and around Columbia Heights and the documentation insurers typically request in Minnesota rider claims. Whether your case involves uninsured motorist issues or a dispute over comparative fault, we bring steady advocacy to each step. There is no cost to talk with us about your options, and fees are only collected if we recover compensation for you. A brief phone call can help you decide the right path forward for your situation.
We regularly see crashes involving left‑turning vehicles, sudden lane changes, and drivers who fail to look for motorcycles at intersections. Rear‑end impacts in slow traffic, dooring near parked cars, and road surface hazards like gravel or potholes also appear in rider files. Some cases involve commercial vehicles or delivery drivers on tight schedules, raising additional coverage questions. Regardless of how the crash occurred, early investigation helps protect your claim. We can gather photographs, witness statements, and police reports, then coordinate with your healthcare providers so your medical records accurately reflect the injuries and limitations you are experiencing.
A frequent pattern involves a vehicle turning left across a rider’s path, claiming they did not see the motorcycle. These cases hinge on visibility, timing, and the sequence of movements leading into the intersection. We examine view obstructions, measure distances, and analyze impact points to clarify how the crash unfolded. Statements from nearby drivers or pedestrians can be valuable, as can any camera footage from adjacent businesses. By connecting the driver’s decision‑making to the resulting injuries, we work to establish liability and pursue fair compensation for medical care, wage loss, and the disruption to your daily life.
Sideswipes and cut‑offs often occur when drivers fail to check blind spots or mirrors before moving into an occupied lane. We look for telltale scrape patterns, mirror damage, and debris, along with statements describing the moment the vehicle drifted or merged. Traffic flow, lighting, and weather can contribute to how these crashes develop and are important to document. We also explore whether the driver was distracted or rushing in heavy traffic. A thorough investigation helps counter arguments that the rider was “hard to see” by demonstrating the reasonable steps the driver should have taken before moving over.
Loose gravel, potholes, uneven surfaces, and construction zones can cause a rider to lose control with little warning. These claims may involve different timelines and notice requirements, especially if a public entity is involved. We move quickly to document the condition, photograph the hazard, and identify the responsible maintenance party or contractor. Vehicle damage patterns and rider gear can help explain the mechanism of injury. When appropriate, we pursue all available avenues of recovery, including applicable insurance coverages, to account for medical treatment, lost work, and the ongoing effects of the crash on your daily activities.
We combine local insight with steady advocacy for riders throughout Columbia Heights and neighboring communities. From the first conversation, you’ll receive clear guidance on coverage, liability, and expected timelines. We value consistent communication, providing updates as your treatment progresses and as negotiations develop. Our approach is hands‑on and thorough, emphasizing early evidence preservation and thoughtful damages documentation so nothing important is overlooked. The goal is to present a well‑supported claim that reflects the real impact the collision has had on your health, work, and daily life.
Resources matter when insurers push back. We assemble records, consult appropriate professionals when needed, and prepare detailed settlement packages that connect the facts of the crash to your injuries and losses. If negotiations do not result in a fair offer, your case is already organized for litigation. Throughout, you’ll understand your options and the reasons behind each recommendation. Our focus is on practical solutions that move your claim toward a result that supports your recovery and respects your goals for the future.
We make it easy to get answers. Your consultation is free, and there are no fees unless we recover compensation for you. If mobility or scheduling is a concern, we will work with you to find a convenient way to talk. Riders choose us because we listen, act promptly, and keep their needs at the center of every decision. When you are ready to discuss your case, call 651-615-3322. We will review the facts, explain the process, and start protecting your rights immediately.
Our process is designed to bring order and progress to a difficult time. We begin with a conversation about your crash, injuries, and goals. Then we investigate liability, review coverage, and coordinate with your medical providers to document treatment. Once we understand the full picture, we prepare a demand package and pursue settlement. If the insurer resists, we discuss litigation, track deadlines, and continue building your case. At each step, you receive clear updates and practical guidance so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
We start by listening to your story and reviewing the available information, including police reports, photos, and early medical records. We answer your questions, explain coverage, and outline a plan that fits your situation. This is also when we advise you on communications with insurers and identify immediate steps to protect your claim, such as preserving evidence and tracking treatment. With a strategy in place, we move quickly to gather additional proof and set expectations for timing, potential outcomes, and the documentation needed to support a strong demand for compensation.
Your goals drive the plan. We discuss pain levels, work limitations, and daily challenges since the crash, then connect those realities to the claim. We also clarify what a successful outcome looks like for you, whether that is timely medical bill relief, resources for future care, or closure through a fair settlement. Understanding your priorities early helps us tailor communications, set a realistic timeline, and prepare a demand that reflects what matters most to you and your family as you move through recovery.
We collect photos, witness information, and available video to document liability. We also review insurance policies for all involved parties, including liability, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, and any medical payments benefits. Identifying coverage early prevents delays and missed opportunities. We open claims, notify insurers of representation, and guide you on medical billing submissions. This groundwork sets the stage for a clear demand package and gives us leverage during settlement discussions by showing that liability and damages are documented with care and attention to detail.
As your treatment progresses, we work to align medical records with the realities of your recovery. We gather billing, wage information, and proof of out‑of‑pocket expenses, while continuing to investigate liability. We also track your functional limitations so non‑economic harms are reflected in the claim. Once your injuries reach a stable point or your doctors can describe future needs, we prepare a comprehensive demand. This package links the collision to your injuries and presents a full accounting of your losses, which guides meaningful settlement discussions with the insurer.
We review police reports, scene photos, and damage patterns to clarify how the crash happened. When needed, we request intersection timing data, nearby camera footage, or maintenance records. We compare defenses raised by the insurer with physical evidence and credible witness accounts, pushing back on unfounded claims about speed or visibility. This liability picture forms the backbone of your case and helps prevent unfair reductions under comparative fault. The result is a claim that clearly explains why the other party should be held responsible for your injuries and losses.
We compile medical records, treatment summaries, and billing statements, along with wage loss documentation and estimates for future care when appropriate. Photographs and a brief impact statement help illustrate the day‑to‑day effects of your injuries. With the evidence organized, we evaluate settlement ranges based on liability, coverage, and anticipated jury views in Minnesota. We then present a demand package that supports each category of damages and invites meaningful negotiations aimed at a fair, timely resolution that supports your recovery.
We negotiate with insurers using the evidence gathered and the valuation we have developed together. If reasonable offers are not made, we discuss filing suit and the steps that follow, including discovery and continued settlement talks. Litigation does not end the chance to resolve your case; it often advances negotiations. Throughout, we keep your goals at the center, balancing timing, risk, and potential outcomes. Whether through settlement or trial, our focus is on reaching a result that reflects the full impact of the crash on your life.
Negotiation is most effective when liability is clear and damages are fully documented. We communicate your story with clarity, attach the proof insurers require, and address common defenses up front. When an offer falls short, we explain the gap and support a counter with evidence. We also discuss the timing of settlement in relation to your medical status, since closing a claim too soon can overlook future care. The objective is a balanced, fair resolution that supports your recovery and respects the realities you face after the crash.
If litigation becomes necessary, we draft a complaint and move into discovery, where both sides exchange information. We continue settlement discussions while taking depositions, reviewing records, and refining the presentation of your case. Many claims resolve before trial, but preparation strengthens your position at every stage. You will receive clear guidance on what to expect and how to prepare for each step. Our goal is to present a compelling, well‑documented case that supports a fair outcome, whether through a pre‑trial resolution or a verdict in court.
Prioritize safety and medical care, then call law enforcement to document the crash. If you can do so safely, take photos of vehicle positions, damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information for witnesses and the other driver, and note nearby businesses that may have cameras. Seek medical attention even if symptoms seem mild; adrenaline can mask pain. Keep your helmet, jacket, and damaged gear unaltered, as they can help explain forces and injuries. Avoid detailed discussions at the scene beyond what is required to exchange information and cooperate with police. Do not guess about speed or fault. As soon as practical, contact Metro Law Offices at 651-615-3322 for a free case review. We will explain next steps, manage insurer communications, and help preserve key evidence. Prompt guidance can prevent mistakes that might reduce your claim’s value or delay a fair settlement.
Minnesota’s no‑fault system provides certain benefits for car occupants, but motorcycles are treated differently under state law. Many riders do not have the same personal injury protection benefits automatically available to drivers and passengers in standard vehicles. Some optional coverages can help, which is why reviewing your policy soon after a crash is important. We can walk you through what applies and how to access available benefits for medical bills and wage loss. Even when no‑fault benefits are limited, riders may pursue claims against the at‑fault driver’s liability insurance. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage on your policy can also play a role. Because these rules can be confusing, a quick call can clarify your options, timelines, and the documentation insurers will expect. We’ll evaluate fault, coverage, and damages, then outline a practical plan to move your claim forward.
Fault is determined by evidence that shows how the collision occurred. Police reports, scene photographs, damage patterns, and witness statements often carry significant weight. We also look for nearby camera footage, road design issues, and visibility factors like lighting and sight lines. The goal is to reconstruct events in a way that explains lane position, impact points, and the decisions made by each driver leading up to the crash. Insurers may raise comparative fault to reduce payment, arguing the rider shared responsibility. We counter by highlighting objective facts and credible accounts that support your version. Helmet use, braking, and evasive actions can all be relevant to how a jury might view responsibility. A clear, evidence‑based presentation helps limit speculation and supports a fair allocation of fault under Minnesota law.
Insurance adjusters often call quickly seeking recorded statements. While cooperation matters, early recordings can harm your claim if injuries are still developing or facts are not fully known. We recommend speaking with us before agreeing to a recording. We will explain what information is appropriate to share and how to avoid speculation that could be used to minimize your injuries or shift blame. When we represent you, we handle adjuster communications and provide updates at each step. This approach protects the value of your claim while ensuring insurers receive accurate, timely documentation. If a statement becomes necessary, we will prepare with you so the conversation is clear, factual, and supported by records, reducing the risk of misunderstandings that can lead to a lower offer.
Compensation can include medical expenses, therapy, and future treatment, along with lost wages or reduced earning capacity. Property damage to your motorcycle, gear replacement, and transportation costs are also considered. Non‑economic damages address pain, emotional distress, and the limits injuries place on activities you enjoy. Each category must be supported by records and a clear connection to the crash. The value of a claim depends on injury severity, the clarity of fault, insurance limits, and how the injuries affect daily life and work. We gather documentation from providers and employers, then present a demand that reflects both current and future losses. Our goal is to pursue a fair resolution that supports your recovery and makes sense for your specific circumstances.
Timelines vary based on medical recovery, investigation, and insurer responsiveness. Many claims resolve after treatment reaches a stable point, which allows us to value future needs more accurately. Rushing to settle can leave important care or wage loss unaddressed. We generally recommend allowing enough time for doctors to describe your prognosis and any lingering limitations before finalizing a settlement. Complex liability, multiple insurers, or disputed injuries can extend the process. We keep your case moving by gathering evidence promptly, providing organized demand packages, and following up regularly with adjusters. Throughout, we explain your options and likely timelines so you can make informed decisions about whether to continue negotiations or consider litigation to protect your rights.
If the at‑fault driver is uninsured or has low limits, your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may apply. These coverages can help bridge the gap between your losses and the other driver’s policy. We review your policy, open appropriate claims, and coordinate with all carriers to maximize available benefits while preventing missteps that could reduce payment. Because your insurer effectively takes the place of the at‑fault driver in these claims, they may scrutinize liability and damages closely. We prepare a detailed package that supports fault and documents medical care, wage loss, and the personal impact of the crash. This organized approach helps push the claim toward a fair resolution without unnecessary delay.
For minor crashes with quick recovery and clear liability, you may feel comfortable handling the claim with limited guidance. We can still review your documents, suggest improvements, and help you avoid common pitfalls. If injuries linger, new symptoms arise, or the insurer resists fair payment, additional support can quickly become valuable. Even smaller claims benefit from good documentation and careful communication. Early decisions—like giving a recorded statement or signing broad medical authorizations—can affect your outcome. A brief call with our office can clarify next steps and help you decide whether limited advice or full representation makes the most sense for your situation.
We handle motorcycle cases on a contingency fee, which means you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. The initial consultation is free. During our first conversation, we explain the fee structure, typical case costs, and how those costs are handled as the claim progresses. Our goal is clarity and transparency from day one. We also discuss potential outcomes, timelines, and how fees are applied if the case settles or proceeds to litigation. You will receive a written agreement that spells out the details so there are no surprises. If you have questions at any point, we are happy to answer them and adjust the strategy to fit your needs.
Minnesota law sets deadlines for filing a lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations. The specific timeline can vary based on the type of claim, parties involved, and insurance issues. Missing the deadline can end your ability to pursue the claim in court, even if liability is clear. Because evidence can fade and records can be harder to collect over time, early action is wise. We track deadlines from the moment we open your file and keep your case moving so your options remain open. During your free consultation, we will review your situation and explain the applicable timelines. If litigation becomes necessary, we will file within the required period while continuing to pursue a fair settlement.
