How Long Will it Take to Settle My Truck Accident Claim?

Being involved in a truck accident can be a traumatizing and difficult experience. You may have suffered severe injuries and be faced with expensive medical bills and lost income. During this stressful time, you may be wondering how long the claims process will take and when you can expect compensation for your losses.

Here is an overview of what to expect when settling a truck accident claim, the process, and how an Okemos truck accident attorney can help you through the process.

The Claims Process Timeline

The timeline for settling a truck accident claim can vary greatly depending on the circumstances of your case. Some factors that affect the length of time include:

Investigation Stage

After an accident, time is needed for an investigation into what happened. Police have to file accident reports, interview witnesses, and inspect the scene. 

Your commercial trucking accident attorney will also conduct an investigation, including examining truck maintenance records, hiring accident reconstruction experts, and more. 

A thorough investigation lays the groundwork for building a strong claim. This stage may take weeks or months, depending on the specifics of the accident.

Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Once your attorney has gathered evidence, they will submit your claim to the trucking company’s insurance provider. Negotiations will go back and forth as your attorney fights for full and fair compensation.

Complex cases involving major injuries and losses may involve lengthy negotiations over the value of the claim. Simple cases may settle more quickly.

Litigation if Necessary

If the insurance company disputes fault or refuses reasonable settlement offers, your attorney may file a lawsuit. The litigation process of exchanging information, taking depositions, and going through motions and hearings can take over a year.

Most truck accident cases settle before trial, but those that do go to trial can take over 2 years. Insurers are more likely to proceed to trial when the financial stakes are at their highest, such as when catastrophic injuries are involved.

Claim Payout

After reaching a settlement agreement, it may still take 4-6 weeks for the insurance company to issue payment. Your attorney can help get any liens cleared and wrap up the final details so you receive your full compensation amount.

Factors That Impact Claim Length in Commercial Truck Accident Cases

Certain factors may cause a truck accident claim to take longer to resolve:

Multiple Vehicles/Parties Involved

If multiple vehicles were involved, it can be more complex to determine liability and how much each party owes. Negotiations have to be held with several insurance carriers.

Catastrophic Injuries

Severe injuries that result in lifelong disabilities or care may have higher compensation values. Insurance companies spend more time negotiating larger claims.

Limited Insurance Coverage

If the trucking company has low policy limits, there may be difficulties securing full compensation, especially if multiple injured parties are making claims.

Disputes Over Fault

When fault for causing the accident is under dispute, claim negotiations can stall. Eyewitness statements, accident reconstructions, and expert testimony may be needed.

Consulting a Truck Accident Attorney

An experienced truck accident attorney can help make the claims process smoother and faster. An attorney will immediately start investigating your case and build leverage for negotiations. They will handle all communication with insurers and skillfully negotiate your settlement. If delays arise, an attorney can pursue litigation and trial if needed to resolve your claim.

Having knowledgeable legal representation levels the playing field when standing against major trucking companies and their insurance providers. Pursuing a claim on your own can take much longer without an attorney’s resources, experience, and negotiation skills. 

For the best chance of maximizing your compensation in a reasonable timeframe, consult a qualified truck accident lawyer.

Working With a Lawyer Provides Many Benefits

The aftermath of a truck accident can be extremely difficult. You may be facing mounting bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and stress. An attorney can provide invaluable help:

Relief From Dealing With Insurance Companies

Insurers have adjusters experienced in minimizing claim payouts. An attorney handles all communication and fights for your best interests.

Navigating Complex Legal Processes

Laws related to local and federal trucking regulations and liability can be complex. An attorney knows how to prove negligence and win compensation under the law.

Assessment of Damages and Losses

An attorney will work with experts to fully calculate your economic and non-economic damages for settlement negotiations.

Expedited Claim Settlement

Attorneys have the resources and legal tools to resolve claims efficiently. Their skills can lead to faster settlements and payouts.

Trial Experience

If a fair settlement can’t be reached through negotiation, a lawyer can file a lawsuit and take your case to trial for a decision. Our firm has the resources and experience to stand up against teams of corporate attorneys.

Legal Fee Structures That Cost Nothing Upfront

Our truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning legal fees come out of any settlement or award. No payment is required upfront.

Contact Us to Learn More About How We Can Help Expedite Your Truck Accident Claim

Suffering injuries and losses from a trucking collision can be devastating. Don’t go through the claims process alone. An experienced attorney with White Law PLLC can reduce stress and expedite results. We work for you to achieve maximum compensation for your damages.

Contact us to evaluate your case at no cost and put skilled legal counsel on your side. With our help, you can focus on healing while we handle pursuing the compensation and justice you truly deserve.