How Long Do Car Accident Settlements Take?

Car accident claims are complicated matters. Even when a case seems straightforward, problems can arise that hinder your ability to collect compensation.

While this can be frustrating, it is important to know that your car accident attorneys want to ensure that you secure optimal compensation. The financial recovery process may take a while, but a thorough investigation can be the difference between a fair settlement and a disappointing one.

Here are some factors that could prolong your car accident case’s progression: 

Determining Fault 

Determining who was responsible for your car accident is one of the most important and time-consuming aspects of your claim. While it may seem clear that the other driver is responsible for the accident and resulting injuries, the other driver and their insurance company may feel differently.

If the other party’s insurance company pushes back against your personal injury claim, then your lawyers will need to compile evidence to prove fault. They can do this by:

• Reviewing the police report
• Interviewing witnesses 
• Watching video footage, if it is available
• Securing copies of your medical records
• Consulting with accident reconstruction specialists
• Speaking with law enforcement officials who responded to the accident scene 

Even after your lawyers compile evidence, the insurance company may still offer a lower settlement than you deserve. When this happens, it is important that your attorneys understand your collision’s details, so you do not settle for less than you need. 

Navigating the State’s Comparative Fault Laws 

Even if you have a very straightforward claim on your hands, the liable insurance company may try to prove that you (or another party) are at least partially responsible for the accident that took place. But why is fault so important? Well, Washington operates on comparative fault rules, meaning fault can be divided amongst multiple parties in a car accident. 

The insurer could allege that fault doesn’t lie with its policyholder. Rather, it lies with: 

• A government agency that failed to keep a roadway safe 
• A bar that overserved an already intoxicated motorist 
• A parts manufacturer that released a defective vehicle 
• Another motorist 
• You 

Even if the insurer knows that its policyholder caused the accident, it may try to slow down the claims process, hoping that you’ll drop the matter and seek damages elsewhere. This is where you could benefit from partnering with an injury lawyer. They can protect you from false allegations and handle all dealings with the insurance company. 

More Severe Injuries Can Mean a Larger Settlement and Longer Process

Accidents with very minor injuries typically don’t take long to resolve. That’s because insurance companies don’t lose a lot of money by paying out these claims. Matters change when a case involves life-altering conditions. Then, insurers balk at the idea of fairly settling a claim or lawsuit. 

Our team believes that if you suffered serious injuries in a car accident, you deserve full and fair compensation for each of your losses, including: 

• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Mental anguish
• Financial damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage costs 

Herschensohn Law has a reputation for advocating for injured people in Washington State. If the insurance company purposefully drags out your case, we can file a lawsuit based on bad faith insurance practices. We don’t have patience for insurers who don’t honor policies, and you shouldn’t, either.