If you are injured in an auto accident at the hands of a distracted or negligent driver, you may choose to pursue compensation that can go towards paying down the medical costs and lost wages associated with your injury. While it would be great to receive compensation as quickly as possible, the settlement process takes time. There are a number of factors that influence how quickly you’ll obtain your settlement, and it’s important to recognize that the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has created additional obstacles that have slowed down the timeline for settling car accident claims. Here’s a brief overview of how certain factors impact the settlement timeline so you can adjust your expectations accordingly.
The Type and Extent of the Injury
One major factor in a car accident case is the nature and severity of the injury itself. In cases where the injuries are more minor, the insurance companies may determine that it’s best to settle the case as soon as possible. This means that you may receive your settlement in a matter of weeks. For more complex injuries, such as those that require extensive surgeries or treatments, or for injuries that may not seem valid to an insurance company because the only documentation that indicates that there is an injury is from a vague chiropractor report, the insurance company is more likely to take more time to investigate the claim.
The Insurance Company
Each insurance company handles car accident claims in their own way. The insurance company involved in your case is influenced by the number of staff they have, their protocol for investigating and settling claims, and other significant factors. Some companies tend to settle claims more quickly, while others take longer to process a claim, as there may be several more steps and parties involved in the process.
The Pandemic’s Impact
As a general rule, most industries have slowed significantly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many insurance companies are working with a smaller staff, and economic and financial concerns may govern their decision making process. A straightforward claim that may have taken a few weeks to settle before the pandemic may not take several months to process, so it’s important to recognize that all stages of the process have experienced significant delays in some way. Working with a trusted personal injury attorney can give you the reassurance and confidence you need as you await the settlement that can help you get your life back on track.
For more information about how you can pursue a successful personal injury claim in the Vancouver or Camas area, contact the knowledgeable and friendly attorneys at Henderson Taylor Law Firm by calling (360) 737-1478 today.
