Factors like injury severity, evidence gathering, and damage amount can affect car accident settlements. Our St. Louis car accident lawyers can help!
The weeks after being involved in a car accident are among the most grueling for most car accident victims. They must not only recuperate from their injuries but also cover medical expenses and repair their damaged vehicles. This brings into light the question of how long the car accident settlement takes.
The earlier a car accident is settled, the faster you can pay the medical expenses and cover your car repair costs. So, what factors determine how long your car accident settlement will take?
The Extent of Your Injuries
Injuries after car accidents vary from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-threatening injuries. Generally, the more severe your injuries, the easier your claims process will be. The attorney can use medical reports, x-rays, and prescriptions to support your claim against the at-fault driver.
Minor injuries that are harder to prove to lengthen the settlement period. That’s because the insurer and court must conclusively establish that your not-so-severe injuries resulted from the accident and are eligible for compensation.
The Insurance Company
Insurers are usually reluctant to award settlements to car accident victims. Unscrupulous insurance companies may prolong the claims process to dissuade you from pursuing the claim. Others use strict and ambiguous terms and conditions to do the same.
Evidence Gathering
Gathering evidence typically takes time since the attorney must reach out to multiple people to get enough evidence. Remember, insufficient evidence could invalidate your claim, so it’s best to let your attorney take as much time as they need for a successful claims process.
Typical evidence required for your claim includes:
- Medical records
- Police reports
- Medical bills
- Photos or video footage
- Witness statements
- Car repair receipts
- Documents supporting lost wages
The Amount of Damage
The law requires the at-fault driver to compensate you for your injuries and property damage. Generally, the higher the compensation you seek, the longer the settlement period. That’s because the insurance company will work hard to ensure it pays you the least amount it can.
An attorney can help you calculate the economic and non-economic damage you suffered from the accident. The more damage, the more time it takes to calculate the settlement amount, and the more stubborn the insurance company will be. We advise working with a skilled and experienced attorney for your car accident claim to streamline the process.
St. Louis Car Accident Attorney
The attorney you hire for your settlement plays a crucial role in determining the length and success of your settlement.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, speaking with an experienced St. Louis car accident attorney is crucial. At The Hoffmann Law Firm. our attorneys have a proven track record of successfully handling car accident claims. We can help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact The Hoffmann Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you get the settlement you deserve. Remember, the sooner you settle your claim, the faster you can pay your medical bills and repair your vehicle.
Free Consultation with a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer
Don’t talk to an insurance claims adjuster before speaking with The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. We can help you avoid making statements that may affect the outcome of your case. The consultation is free; you don’t pay unless we get you money!
Free Consultation (314) 361-4242