When you get into a crash because of a thoughtless driver, you may want to know, “How long does a car accident claim take to settle?” The exact timeline for resolving the case depends on several factors. For example, the complexity of the crash or the severity of your injuries may lengthen the settlement period. Also, delays can occur if the involved parties disagree about the cause of the accident or what should happen because of it.
At Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm, our attorney has 30 years of experience fighting for South Carolina’s auto accident victims.
We understand how much can change in an instant when a drunk, distracted, or reckless driver hurts you. Whether it involves going up against the government, a faceless trucking company, or an individual, we have what it takes to put your best interest at the heart of our legal strategy.
Factors That Influence the Length of a Car Accident Settlement
Many factors can impact how long it takes to settle a car accident claim. For example, car accidents involving multiple drivers and defective vehicle parts may take more time to resolve.
Determining fault can be more complicated in these types of wrecks because multiple variables led to the collision.
Additionally, the willingness of the at-fault driver and their insurance company to engage in settlement talks can influence the settlement timeline. If the negligent driver disagrees about why the car accident occurred, this may require a lengthier investigation period.
Likewise, the insurance company and the victim may not be on the same page about the victim’s damages or what their policy entitles them to. If an underinsured or uninsured motorist caused the crash, it can take more time to determine what compensation is available to the victim under their insurance contract.
The Role of Medical Treatment in Delaying Settlement
The victim’s healthcare costs may be a big part of a car accident injury settlement. This compensation category reimburses the victim for the medical bills they have had to pay because of the collision. Often, these expenses are ongoing, especially in severe accidents that cause catastrophic harm. If they suffer a severe loss, the victim may have to have multiple surgeries, participate in lengthy treatment, or go to physical therapy to regain the functioning they lost because of their injuries.
Because of the need for ongoing medical attention, calculating the victim’s compensation can take longer or be more complicated. The victim or the victim’s attorney may want to wait until the victim has or recovers from an involved surgery before they estimate how much money the victim should get.
How Insurance Companies Affect the Timeline of Your Claim
The involvement of insurance companies can impact how long it takes to get compensation after filing a claim. Your insurer will want to conduct their own investigation about what happened. As part of this, they may get statements from you, the other driver, and any witnesses or passengers. They may also want to review the physical evidence and police report to determine the underlying cause of the collision and what policy provisions apply.
Additionally, you and the insurance company may disagree about why the accident occurred and what compensation you should get for your losses. In this situation, you, the insurance company, and the other driver’s insurer may have to renegotiate a new proposal. If you cannot come to an agreement outside of court, you may have to file a lawsuit to help get answers and a fair payout.
When Will You Receive a Settlement Offer After a Car Accident?
The timing of when you receive a car accident insurance claim settlement offer depends on several factors. If you and the other driver are on the same page about what occurred, the insurance company may take less time to process your claim and send a proposal. But, if you and the other driver disagree about who is at fault and what compensation should be paid out, it may take longer to resolve.
Just because you receive an offer quickly does not mean what you are receiving is fair or in your best interest. Sometimes, an insurance company sends out a lowball proposal shortly after the victim files a claim in the hopes that they will accept it and waive their rights. The insurance company may make it sound like it is a fair offer, but, in reality, it might be far less than what the victim is entitled to.
In these situations, the insurance company may hope the victim will agree to this instead of trying to get the total value of their losses. Because of this, it’s imperative for victims to talk to trusted attorneys before they accept anything sent to them by insurance agents or the at-fault driver.
Common Delays in Car Accident Settlements and How a Lawyer Can Help
Delays during the car accident settlement process may occur because of disputes about the cause of the collision or what the victim is entitled to. Missing or incomplete paperwork may also result in longer processing times. If the insurance company is unwilling to offer a fair settlement, this can also push back the timeline.
A personal injury lawyer has experience working with insurance companies, victims, and at-fault parties to resolve auto wreck claims. They can help the victim navigate the complex claims process and advise them about their legal options. The attorney may also have the tools to take the case to trial to fight for the victim’s right to a complete restitution package.
How Long Does It Take to Receive Compensation After Settling a Claim?
How long it takes to receive the settlement payout can change from one situation to the next.
For more complex claims, the insurance may take longer to process the settlement and send out the checks. Likewise, if the victim and the insurer or at-fault party agree to periodic payments, the victim will not necessarily receive their damages award right away. Instead, they would receive these based on the schedule outlined in the settlement.
Contact Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm After an Auto Wreck in South Carolina
In the aftermath of a collision, many victims are curious about things like, “How long does a car accident claim take to settle?” There is no set timeframe for when you will receive your payout from or reach a settlement agreement with the at-fault driver. However, partnering with a seasoned advocate can help you move this process along in a steady and effective direction.
Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm proudly serves South Carolina’s personal injury victims. Past clients appreciate our attention to detail, our compassion, and our high level of professionalism. Reach out to us today by calling (864) 721-6885 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.