Being in a car accident is a major disruption to a person’s life. In addition to being hospitalized and recovering from their injuries, the victim will miss work and have to spend time getting their vehicle repaired. That’s to say nothing of the pain, suffering, and other inconveniences they will experience.
All the victim really wants is to settle the case and move on with their life. But what sort of timeframe should an Arizona car accident victim expect? The personal injury attorneys of the Gill Law Firm take a closer look.
The Steps in a Typical Settlement
To better understand how much time it will take your case to settle, it helps to have an idea of the typical timeline. Although every case is different, most victims can expect the following process:
- Seeking medical attention: After being in a car crash, you should visit the emergency room or see your doctor. Following your initial treatment, your physician will refer you to medical specialists if necessary. The doctors will continue to assess and treat you until you reach maximum medical improvement.
- Filing a claim with insurance: As soon as possible after the accident, you should file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. You should do the same with your own insurer. However, it’s a good idea to retain legal representation to assist with this step.
- Investigation and evidence gathering: Your Arizona car accident is likely complex, and identifying the at-fault parties and how they caused the crash will require investigation. The insurance companies will also gather their own evidence so they can make a settlement offer.
- Demand letter and negotiations: Once your attorney better understands the facts underlying the accident, they can make an offer to the at-fault party’s insurer. This kicks off the negotiation phase and may involve mediation to reach a settlement.
- Settlement and funds disbursement: If negotiations are successful, then the insurance company will issue a check to pay you, your doctors, and your attorney. As a condition of accepting settlement, you will need to sign a release that waives your right to seek additional compensation later.
How Much Time Should You Expect?
The above steps may take anywhere from 2 to 18 months. However, the actual timeline will vary based on the unique circumstances of your Arizona car accident. These are some of the factors which will affect how long your settlement will take:
- The severity of your injuries: It’s important that you reach maximum medical improvement so your doctors and attorneys can have a good idea of what your medical expenses will be. This does not foreclose the possibility of future medical treatments, but it makes it easier to calculate a dollar value for your case.
- The nature of your damages: Your attorney needs to understand how much the accident has cost you – medically, financially, and personally. This includes the possibility of future damages such as decreased earning capacity and medical bills.
- Disputes over liability: If the at-fault driver or other parties (such as bars that serve drunk drivers too much alcohol) are refusing to accept responsibility, the case will take longer. It will also take more time if you are accused of being partially at fault.
- The insurance companies: Insurance plays a big role in the settlement process, so their and their lawyers’ attitudes about settlement could affect you. For instance, many insurers try to downplay victims’ pain and suffering, and this can be a point of contention.
Your Legal Counsel Will Affect Your Settlement
The experience and dedication of the law firm you retain to represent you will also make a major difference in the duration (and amount) of your settlement. Were you or a loved one injured in an Arizona car crash? Contact the Gill Law Firm today to get started with a claim for the compensation you deserve.