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How Long Does It Take To Settle A Car Accident Claim

Discover the Key Factors That Affect Car Accident Claims and How Legal Guidance Can Help You Navigate the Settlement Process Effectively!

How Long Does It Take To Settle A Car Accident Claim

Every state has its statute of limitations. You must file an injury claim before that. If you submit late, you won't get the application. Look for an experienced car accident lawyer. Various factors influence the settlement timeline and process.

Car accidents can turn fatal, resulting in the victim losing numerous items. Some victims suffer from severe traumatic injuries, while others may only sustain minor injuries. Any kind of car accident can be a dreadful experience in and of itself. A few necessary steps one should take after facing a car accident are to board an ambulance and call the police.

If you or any of your loved ones got injured in a car accident recently, you might be wondering about how the law firms in New York can help. A skilled New York city personal injury lawyer can assist you in obtaining the appropriate compensation for the losses incurred due to the accident. Be it dealing with the insurance companies or helping you in filing a lawsuit for the compensation amount, having a competent lawyer by your side is always right. It is because they can handle everything for you.

Following are some of the factors that may influence your car accident claim:

  • Issues with proving liability
  • Car accident-related injuries
  • Ensure the quality and quantity of your evidence, which includes medical evidence, eyewitnesses, and records.
  • The insurance company's response time also influences the settlement procedure.
  • An experienced car accident lawyer was involved in the case.

Proving Liability

A negligent driver is responsible for your injuries and damages. A driver is considered negligent when they showcase reckless behavior. A driver bears responsibility for all injuries and damages they inflict on others. Proving liability can be complicated. Should you fail to establish the driver's negligence, the claim might face denial. If you can't demonstrate the driver's culpability, the entire procedure becomes slow. An experienced attorney can help you establish the liability.

The number of injuries from the car accident also plays a role in determining how long it will take to settle. If you have serious injuries, it may take some time. It might take some time to calculate medical damages.

Evidence

Evidence plays a considerable role in determining your claim. You should collect all the necessary evidence that can help you prove your claim. Keep photographs of the car accident. Keep the following evidence on hand:

  • Photographs: Take pictures from different angles. Take photos of the vehicle and close-ups of the damages.
  • Driver's information: Write down the driver's license number, vehicle plate number, and other information.
  • Eyewitness statements: You should ask other people who may have seen the accident, or other drivers, to witness and testify on your behalf. For future reference, please request their names and contact information. They could assist you in establishing liability and pursuing your claim.
  • Official records: If you report an accident to the police, you should also keep a record of it. Always keep a copy of such documents and share them with your lawyers. They will know what evidence is essential and how to use each proof in the right way.

The insurance company's response time is often lengthy. Sometimes, their response times can even be slightly longer than expected. However, dealing with them can be complicated. Therefore, you should consider hiring a lawyer to deal with these insurance agencies. The insurers may take some time to investigate the details and assess the damages. Consequently, it is crucial to speak to an experienced lawyer.

Should I negotiate the claim or file the lawsuit?

After the insurance company has accepted or denied the offer, you should know what should be your next step. You can take any of the following steps:

  • You have the option of receiving a claim or appealing a denial.
  • You can reject the offer. After refusing, you can negotiate for a higher settlement.
  • Or you can file a lawsuit after rejecting the offer.

You should also check if you have enough deadlines left to file the lawsuit. Every state has a different statute of limitations. Therefore, you should speak to a lawyer to help you decide the appropriate option. You can ask your lawyer if negotiating with the other party will help. Otherwise, they will assist you in filing a lawsuit.