If you get into a car accident, it is normal to want to settle with an insurance company as quickly as possible so you can recover and move forward. However, it is important not to rush into a fast settlement that fails to adequately compensate you for your losses. How long your case might take will depend on the circumstances. Make sure to contact an accident lawyer in San Antonio for legal guidance in order to get the compensation you deserve.
Average Car Accident Settlement Timeline
There is no set timeline for a car accident settlement in Texas, as every case is unique. Your case may take more or less time than someone else’s car accident claim depending on the situation.
With that said, you can estimate how long it might take by looking at a general timeline of events for the average case:
- Weeks 1 to 2: an insurance company will investigate the accident to try to determine fault and collect evidence. You should receive medical care for your injuries. You may also want to consult with a personal injury lawyer about the case and your legal options.
- Weeks 2 to 4: insurers in Texas are required to reject or accept claims filed within 15 days of receiving all necessary information and documentation, so you should hear from them about their decision on your case. You may receive your first settlement offer in this period.
- Months 1 to 3: an insurer can request more time to evaluate a claim, if necessary, but must provide a valid reason for an extended investigation.
- Months 3 to 6: negotiations with an insurance company often result in a settlement within about three months, but it can take six months or longer in some cases.
- More than 6 months: complicated cases, such as those with multiple liable parties, may take several months from start to finish.
The average car accident settlement for a relatively simple case takes around three to six months. However, if a case has to go to trial, expect it to take one year or longer.
What Factors Can Affect the Settlement Timeline?
It can be difficult to gauge how long your car accident settlement might take, as many factors can influence and affect case timelines. A car accident lawyer in Texas can go over the elements involved in your specific case to help you understand your individual timeline.
These may include:
- Injury severity and recovery duration
- The number of parties involved
- Whether there is a dispute regarding liability
- Issues such as a lack of necessary documentation
- An insurance company’s cooperation
- An insurance settlement vs. a personal injury trial
Cases with complex situations, such as extensive or catastrophic injuries, can easily take a year or longer to be resolved. An attorney can help you navigate the unique issues involved in your case to try to achieve the most efficient resolution possible.
Don’t Settle Your Claim Too Quickly
When you file a car accident insurance claim, the insurance adjuster assigned to your case will not have your best interests in mind. The adjuster works for the insurance company and wants to save the insurer as much money as possible on your payout.
One tactic often used is to rush claimants into accepting a quick settlement – typically, one that is lower than the victim deserves. Do not fall for pressure from an insurance adjuster to accept the first settlement offer. Even if language is used such as “best” or “final” offer, this is not the case.
You have the right to negotiate with an insurance company for an amount that covers the full extent of your medical bills, lost wages, property damage and other losses. An experienced car accident attorney can help you negotiate for maximum compensation, even if this means taking your case to trial. Contact us today.