In Fresno, the average household has two cars. While this is convenient for transportation, it increases the chance of someone in your household being involved in a car accident. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the car accident settlement process and timeline. Learn what you can expect if you or a loved one are waiting for a settlement.
What’s the Process?
There are a few things you need to do after your accident to secure your chance at a
settlement. First, you should report your accident to the police. According to California law,
motorists need to report car accidents if it meets certain requirements. If there was property
damage or someone was injured or killed, you need to report the accident. Failing to do so is a
hit and run, which comes with misdemeanor or felony charges.
Then, you should connect with an attorney. You might try to seek a settlement from the other
party’s insurance claim. In this case, you need to act quickly. Typically, insurers only give you
days or a few weeks to file your claim. Your attorney can help you get started.
If you’re seeking a settlement through a personal injury claim, you have a longer filing period.
Car accident victims who have been injured have two years to file a claim. A claim only involving
property damage has a deadline of three years.
How the Insurance Settlement Works
If you go through the insurance company, they will ask you for your account of the accident.
Eventually, they may send an insurance adjuster out to your home. They’ll gauge the cost of the damage.
Insurance companies are known for fighting claims. If you seek money for your medical
expenses or missed wages, they might short-change you. They could leave you bearing the
burden of your accident expenses. For that reason, you may need to hire an attorney to fight for
a fair settlement.
How a Personal Injury Claim Works
A personal injury claim has a different process. Your lawyer will file a personal injury claim
against the negligent driver. After that, both sides do their discovery. They look at the details
regarding the accident and examine all of the evidence.
It’s a common misconception that the next step is to go to court. In most personal injury claims,
there is no court date. The lawyers meet and negotiate a fair settlement. Typically, your lawyer
will seek a settlement that covers your medical expenses, missed wages, and pain and
suffering. If the other party agrees to the terms, your case is resolved.
How Long Does it Take?
Your personal injury settlement could take anywhere from a few months to years. The outcome
depends on your case and your attorney. The negotiation process usually takes some time. If
both parties can’t come up with an agreement, the case goes to trial. This can be a lengthy
process that takes years.
If your case is strong and your attorney is experienced, you may get results in only a few
months. You should choose an experienced attorney who has handled many other car accident
settlements. Grossman Law Offices Attorneys can use their experience to get you results.
