The time that it takes to settle a car accident claim depends on several factors. Some cases are resolved in as little as a few months, while others can take years to settle. This is especially true in cases where one party is partially at fault.
The amount of time that it takes to settle a car claim is affected by the extent of the injuries. Minor injuries may lead to a settlement quickly, while more severe injuries may cause a prolonged process. For example, a multi-car crash with serious injuries can take a year or more to resolve.
If you have been in an accident, it is important to contact your insurance company. They will require you to report the incident within a certain time frame. It is also advisable to hire an experienced car accident attorney. He or she will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident and pursue a fair settlement.
After an accident, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain. You might want to consult a lawyer such as The Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez, a premier California personal injury law firm at 800-816-1529, to ensure that you get the compensation that you need to recover from your injuries. While the court system may take several months to settle your case, an experienced car accident lawyer will work on your behalf to secure the largest possible settlement.
If you were not at fault in the accident, you will likely have to wait a few weeks for your insurance company to process your claim. Your attorney will then send a demand letter to the at-fault driver’s insurer to request compensation. Typically, your insurance company will respond to the demand letter with a settlement offer. However, the settlement offer may be low, and you could receive less than you deserve. In such a situation, your attorney will advise you against accepting the offer.
In addition to waiting for the insurance company to process your claim, you may need to go to court to obtain a judgment if the case cannot be settled. Sometimes, your case can be settled during trial but that is rare.
Before a trial, the parties can try to settle by working with a mediator. These professionals are usually retired judges, who can help the parties reach a satisfactory settlement. Mediation is often scheduled between nine and 18 months after the lawsuit is filed. During mediation, the insurance company and the defendant will provide information about their claims and the details of the accident. When all parties are satisfied with the results, the parties can agree to a settlement.
If the case goes to trial, it may take a couple of days or a week. A trial is more complicated, as the parties must present evidence that supports their claims. At times, it can be difficult to coordinate eyewitnesses to testify. Additionally, many cases will involve a significant split of responsibility between the at-fault drivers.
After your case has been presented, your attorney will conduct legal research to build the strongest argument against the at-fault party. Your attorney will also seek input from accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and other witnesses.
The Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez, are experts at dealing with personal injury cases. Call 800-816-1529.
