Car Accident Case Settlement Time and What to Expect
The timeline for a car accident settlement can vary from case to case. Every accident is unique. How long the claims process takes can depend on many factors such as the complexity of the claim and how severe your injuries are. When you hire a car accident lawyer, they can ensure that your case is settled as quickly as possible. An attorney can help you during the claims process in many ways, including ensuring you pursue the compensation you’re owed and that the insurance company is not dragging its feet, preventing you from receiving your settlement promptly.
How Long Do Most Car Accident Settlements Take?
The average time it takes to settle an auto accident claim ranges from four to six weeks. However, the process can take longer, depending on how complex your accident claim is and whether you suffered life-changing injuries. Injuries that require multiple surgeries, rehabilitation, tests, and other medical treatment, can prolong the case. Some cases will wait to settle until the accident victim has reached full recovery.
What Factors Can Prolong the Settlement Timeline?
The main factors that can impact how soon a case is settled include:
- Legal issues, such as lack of evidence needed to prove negligence.
- The settlement involves a large sum of money. If a lot of money is at stake, the insurance company will make sure the accident is thoroughly investigated ensuring that they have a full analysis of damages.
- The accident victim is still receiving medical treatment for their extensive injuries. In this situation, the case is stretched out as long as possible because if the case is settled too early and the accident victim finds out later that their injuries are more severe than previously thought, they will not be able to go back and file another claim or lawsuit to recover additional compensation.
Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer to Handle My Claim?
A car accident lawyer can advise you on what they believe would be the best way to handle your claim. Your lawyer will handle every aspect of your claim, including settlement negotiations and ensuring the insurance company is not dragging its feet or acting in bad faith.
Your car accident attorney will also accurately assess your damages, making certain that you pursue every penny of compensation you’re owed for your injuries and other damages.
During this challenging time, your attorney can also help by:
- Investigating your accident
- Gathering evidence
- Interviewing witnesses
- Assessing damages
- Consulting with experts
- Filing paperwork
- Handling settlement negotiations
- Filing a lawsuit, if necessary
To increase your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve, contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after an accident.
Contact Us Today
If you were injured in an auto accident, contact a car accident lawyer at Friedland Law today to schedule a free legal consultation. A car accident attorney on our legal team can help guide you through the legal process and ensure you recover every penny of compensation you’re owed, as quickly as possible. Contact us today to learn more.
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