How Long Does It Take for a Case to Settle?
It is very difficult to give a definitive answer to how long a case will take to settle. Generally speaking, one can expect that a settlement may be reached a few weeks to a few months after the initial letter of demand is sent to the insurance company, but it may take much longer.
Factors that weigh upon settlements include the workload of the adjuster assigned to the claim, how well-documented your claim is, the philosophy of the insurance company regarding settlement, the time of year, the economy, and whether the insurance is making any claim of comparative negligence.
One important factor in reaching settlement is if you have a reasonable expectation for the value of your claim. Your injury attorney sees many injury claims and can discuss your goals and help you in setting expectations. Recognize, however, that some insurance companies will simply not be willing to come to a fair settlement amount on a claim voluntarily. Our goal is to obtain fair and proper compensation for your injuries.
What Will Happen if My Case Doesn’t Settle?
If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will counsel you on the advisability of proceeding with a lawsuit. There are many factors that enter into this decision, including the potential costs of going to trial and the likelihood of success. You and your attorney will discuss the best course of action for your case.
How Will the Value of My Claim Be Determined?
Many factors go into determining the value of a claim. These include the costs of medical treatment, any lost income, future projected medical bills, etc. Besides costs incurred, other factors vary for each case but often include the long-term impact of the injury, the outrageousness of the defendant’s conduct, and the pain and suffering endured.
Once you and your attorney have decided on a settlement range, a demand letter is sent to the insurance company. This frequently results in a negotiation. Our objective is to obtain the highest amount possible in negotiation.
If a fair settlement amount cannot be reached, a lawsuit may need to be filed to force the defendant to pay the compensation you are due. Your attorney will discuss this option.
How Can I Help My Lawyer with My Claim?
The information and documents you provide on your case is very important. You are often the best source of information about your injury, because you live with it.
Your lawyer will ask you to provide such things as: a list of potential witnesses who can testify about the accident, medical bills, other expenses, paystubs and an accounting of lost wages. Your attorney will need you to sign authorization forms in order to obtain copies of medical and employment information.
It is vital that you stay in contact with your lawyer. If you move or change your phone number, make sure that you let your attorney’s support team know right away.
First and foremost, do all that you can to heal from your injuries. Nothing is more important than your health and recovery. Be sure to keep all medical appointments as missed appointments for treatment can work against your claim. And, follow all doctors’ instructions to the best of your ability.
Providing good information and remaining accessible can help your injury attorney prepare your claim. And, in the end, it can help maximize the amount of compensation you receive for your injuries.
