If you’ve been in a car accident, one of your biggest concerns is likely how long it will take to settle your claim. The car accident settlement timeline can vary depending on several factors, such as the severity of injuries, the complexity of the case, and negotiations with insurance companies. Understanding the process can help you manage expectations and avoid unnecessary delays.
Factors That Impact the Settlement Timeline
How long does it take to settle a car accident claim? That depends on several factors. Let’s break them down.
Severity of Injuries
Serious injuries can make a car accident claim take longer, especially if you need surgeries, rehab, or long-term care. Settling too soon could leave you covering future medical costs out of pocket. That’s why speaking with a lawyer as quickly as possible is essential. An attorney can help you understand your options, gather the proper evidence, and make sure you’re not pressured into a low settlement.
Liability Disputes
Insurance companies may take longer to investigate and negotiate if the fault isn’t apparent or multiple parties are involved. Disputes over evidence or shared liability can slow things down, and in some cases, accident reconstruction experts may be needed. If the insurer refuses to accept responsibility, you may have to take legal action, which can further stretch the process.
Insurance Company Delays
Insurance companies love to make things difficult. They’ll ask for more proof than necessary, slow things down with endless requests, and argue about damages just to wear you down. Then, they’ll toss you a lowball offer, hoping you’ll take it. But with the right car accident lawyer? You don’t have to play their game.
Settlement Negotiations
Negotiating for the right amount can take time if the first offer isn’t fair. Some claims wrap up fast, while others go through several rounds of back-and-forth. Insurance companies tend to start low, hoping you’ll take less than you should. A strong lawyer can push for more, but how long that takes depends on how willing the insurer is to cooperate—it could take weeks or even months.
Litigation
If negotiations don’t work out, you may need to file a lawsuit, which means dealing with court schedules and legal red tape—so yes, it can take longer. Most cases settle before trial, but some can continue for a year or more. Litigation requires gathering evidence, depositing, and going through discovery before receiving a resolution or going to court.
Step-by-Step Car Accident Settlement Timeline
While every case is unique, most car accident claims follow a similar process. Below is a general breakdown of the car accident claim process:
Filing the Insurance Claim (Days to Weeks)
If you’ve been in a car accident, don’t wait to file your claim. You’ll need to gather things like the accident report, medical records, and repair estimates as soon as possible. Insurance companies have deadlines, and missing them gives them an easy excuse to deny your claim.
Investigation and Evaluation (Weeks to Months)
After filing a claim, the insurer investigates by reviewing reports, speaking to witnesses, and assessing damages. If liability is clear, the process moves quickly. However, disputes over fault or damages can be extended for months.
Medical Treatment and Recovery (Months to Over a Year)
If you’ve been injured, waiting until you’ve finished treatment before agreeing to a settlement is best. Settling too soon could mean you don’t get enough to cover future medical costs. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or spinal damage, may need long-term care, which can stretch out the settlement process even more.
Insurance Negotiation After an Accident (Weeks to Months)
Once medical expenses and damages are determined, negotiations begin. Your attorney will work to reach a fair settlement with the insurance company. You will receive your settlement check after completing the necessary paperwork if an agreement is reached. Negotiations can be quick in straightforward cases, but more contested claims may take multiple rounds of counteroffers.
Filing a Lawsuit (Several Months to Over a Year, If Needed)
If negotiations fail, filing a lawsuit might be the next step. The time it takes depends on court availability, the discovery process, and trial schedules. Lawsuits can involve depositions, expert testimonies, and legal motions, all adding to the timeline.
Settlement or Trial Verdict (Months to Several Years, If Litigated)
Many cases settle before trial, but if a settlement is not reached, the case proceeds to court. A judge or jury will determine the compensation amount. The trial process may take several days or weeks, but the preparation and legal proceedings leading up to the trial can span over a year.
Receiving Your Settlement Check (Weeks to Months After Settlement Agreement)
Once a settlement is finalized, the car accident settlement check process involves signing a release form and waiting for the insurance company to process the payment. This can take a few weeks to a couple of months. If a structured settlement is involved, the payout schedule may be different.
What Slows Down Car Accident Settlements?
Several factors can delay car accident compensation:
- Disputes over fault – If liability is unclear, resolving it can take longer.
- Incomplete medical treatment – Settling too soon may leave you without enough for future medical costs.
- Insurance tactics – Some insurers delay, dispute, or lowball claims.
- Legal complications – Cases with multiple parties or government entities take longer.
- Court backlogs – Trials can be delayed due to crowded dockets.
Knowing these setbacks can help you prepare.
How Long After an Accident Can You Sue?
In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident allows three years from the accident date to sue. You may lose your right to seek compensation if you miss this deadline. Acting quickly and consulting a lawyer can help protect your rights.
Get Help With Your Car Accident Claim
If you’re dealing with an insurance settlement timeline for a car accident and need guidance, working with an experienced attorney can make a significant difference. At Murphy Crantford Meehan, we help clients navigate the personal injury claim process, negotiate with insurers, and pursue fair compensation. Contact us today through our contact page to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.
