How Long Does a Car Accident Settlement Take?

How long a car accident settlement takes depends on the unique details of each case. Factors such as the severity of injuries, liability issues, and negotiations with the insurance company all play a role in determining the timeline. Settling could take anywhere between a few weeks to months or even years.

Working with an experienced Norfolk car accident lawyer like me could speed up the process. I am Ed Atkinson, and I have been serving injured victims throughout Virginia for over 15 years. I understand how disruptive a collision can be and that you are looking forward to moving on with your life. Call me today for a free consultation, and we can discuss a timeline for your case.

A Brief Overview of the Car Accident Settlement Process

What you do after the car accident will impact how long the settlement takes. To make sure you increase the chances of a quick process and a favorable outcome, consult a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.

After the crash, report the accident to the police and exchange information with the involved parties. Seek medical attention promptly to address injuries and establish a connection between the crash and the resulting medical issues.

As your lawyer, I can notify your insurance company of the accident. Then they will launch an investigation to determine liability and assess damages. This investigation involves collecting evidence, reviewing medical records, and obtaining statements.

The next stage includes negotiation between the parties and their insurance adjusters to reach a fair offer. If negotiations fail, you may pursue legal action, leading to a lawsuit and, potentially, a trial.

Factors That Impact the Car Accident Settlement Time

How quickly you move through the stages of the settlement process depends on a series of factors. In cases where liability is clear, and injuries are well-documented, the process may end relatively quickly. On the other hand, if there are disputes over liability or difficulty in getting evidence, the timeline may be extended.

The Issue of Liability

Since Virginia is a contributory negligence state, this means that you can’t recover money if you have any level of fault in the collision. This makes determining fault in car accidents in Virginia even more critical. You must clearly prove that the other party is entirely at fault, as any degree of shared responsibility impacts your compensation.

Strength of Evidence

The quality of evidence plays a significant role in accelerating or delaying the resolution. Strong evidence will clearly show who is at fault and leave little room for insurance adjusters or the opposing party to contest liability.

Types of evidence that strengthen your claim include:

• Police report
• Eyewitness testimonies
• Photographs of the accident scene
• Video footage
• Medical records
• Repair estimates for property damage

As your car accident lawyer, I will gather and analyze the available evidence to increase the value of your claim. I will assess the strength of each piece of evidence to make sure it supports your case.

The Extent of Your Injuries

In cases where injuries are minor and the medical treatment is brief, the settlement process may be relatively quick. However, if the injuries are severe and require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, or ongoing treatment, the settlement can take longer.

Accurately assessing the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and future medical care, takes time. The severity of injuries often impacts the negotiation process, as both parties may need to consider the long-term impact on your well-being.

Eyewitness Testimonies

Clear and credible eyewitness accounts of the accident can speed up the case by providing a straightforward narrative of events. This can help establish liability and contribute to a quicker agreement between parties and insurance companies.

However, discrepancies in eyewitness statements and difficulties in getting testimonies add more time to the settlement process. In such cases, additional investigations may be necessary, introducing roadblocks that can extend negotiations.

Can You Speed Up the Settlement Process?

You could speed up the car accident settlement process by working with an experienced lawyer. As your attorney, I can accelerate the process by anticipating problems and resolving them quickly.

A car accident lawyer can strengthen your case by:

• Handling negotiations
• Gathering relevant evidence
• Filing all necessary legal documentation accurately and within Virginia’s statute of limitations
• Obtaining witness statements
• Communicating with all parties involved on your behalf
• Evaluating settlement offers

I understand that car accident victims may have catastrophic injuries, but these should not prevent you from getting quality legal guidance. Whether you are recovering at home or in a hospital, I can travel to your location to meet in person. If you prefer, we could also set up an online meeting to discuss the details of your case.

Insurance Companies Are Not in a Hurry to Settle

Insurance companies are aware that car accident victims often face financial difficulties, and they may be in urgent need of money to cover medical expenses and other immediate costs. Claim adjusters will try to take advantage of this vulnerability.

Knowing that claimants are seeking quick financial assistance, adjusters will try to delay the settlement process and offer a low initial settlement. They want to pressure you into accepting low offers that won’t fully cover your losses.

As an experienced car accident attorney, I am well aware of the tactics insurance adjusters use. During my years of practicing law, I have developed effective strategies to protect my clients’ interests. I will negotiate for the maximum compensation possible for your case. If adjusters don’t settle on a fair amount, I am prepared to take your claim to court.

Call Atkinson Law for a Free, No-Obligation Consultation

I built my own legal practice on a foundation of trust and open communication. At my law firm, I treat my clients as dear family members, prioritizing their well-being and ensuring they feel heard. When we work together, you can reach me at any time, and I will keep you informed about the progress of your case.

I treat all car accident cases with care and urgency. After reviewing the details of your case, I can provide a more accurate estimate of how long it might take to settle. Contact me today to schedule a free initial consultation.