Auto accidents can come with high expenses and uncertain timelines. When a personal injury has occurred, medical costs can quickly become a burden for a victim on top of any auto repairs that need immediate attention. Although the timeline can be relatively variable depending on the circumstances around an accident, a personal injury lawyer will be able to guide a plaintiff through the experience as quickly as possible.
What is a personal injury settlement?
A personal injury settlement includes a sum of money or compensation a plaintiff receives from a defendant, which stops the case from proceeding to trial status. If a plaintiff/victim agrees to the provided settlement, the trial is effectively stopped.
Once a personal injury claim has been completed, the time after filing but before receiving a settlement check can seem like an eternity. With medical bills, insurance claims, and auto repairs looming, working with a personal injury lawyer is critical to iron out the details.
After the claim is submitted, the settlement check timeline begins. The settlement amount is determined after both parties review evidence given by the victim. Evidence may include:
- Liability
- Medical bills
- Property damage
- Costs associated with hospitalization, surgery, or medical treatment
- The severity of injuries sustained (temporary or permanent)
- Costs related to missed of work or lost income
What is the average time to settle a claim?
A car accident lawsuit settlement time depends on the circumstances and complexity. Given typical circumstances, a car accident settlement check typically is received between six and eight weeks, but it can take months or even years to settle a more complex case. A fender bender settlement might resolve faster than an auto accident involving a fatality.
Lawyers specializing in personal injury will consult with you about the logistics of your case and the circumstances surrounding the car accident. Then, a lawyer will make the necessary calls and outreach to insurance companies to explain your case details and collect information about protecting your rights.
An insurance adjuster will work with your lawyer to create a settlement plan presented to you, the victim, for review. Following a settlement offer, your lawyer will negotiate if necessary.
Obtaining legal representation after a car accident
In Arizona, car insurance laws dictated by ADOT require drivers to have minimum liability coverage when driving in the state.
Minimum levels of financial responsibility in the state of Arizona include:
- $25,000 bodily injury liability for one person
- $50,000 for two or more persons
- $15,000 property damage liability
Consult an expert about the circumstances of your accident. If you are injured or a family member has sustained injury due to a car accident, you are entitled to a settlement check. A personal injury lawyer representing you after an accident can increase the settlement amount. Our lawyers are experienced in personal injury and will be able to assess your case and work with insurance adjusters to make a reasonable offer for your circumstances.
