Personal Injury cases are sometimes settled in the blink of an eye. Other times, they can seem to drag on for eternities. Here’s an overview of the different factors that dictate how long it takes to settle a personal injury case.
Why Do Some Cases Settle Quickly?
- Clear Liability
Cases where there is clearly a liable or at-fault party (such as a rear end accident with an accompanying police report that establishes liability) often settle more quickly than a case with disputed or unclear liability.
- Very Minor Injuries or Very Severe Injuries
Accidents that result in very minor injuries (which require little medical treatment) sometimes can be resolved relatively quickly. The same can be said for accidents resulting in very serious injuries. Due to the clear and obvious nature of accidents like these, insurance companies often have no problem compensating these claims in an expeditious manner.
- Strong Evidence
Cases with clear medical records, witness statements, and surveillance footage are often easier to settle quickly, as there is little room to dispute what actually happened.
- Insurance Company Incentive
If the insurer involved in your lawsuit is motivated to close the case (due to costs or bad press) then it may settle more quickly compared to others.
- Limited amount of Insurance Coverage on Driver Who Caused the Accident
If the cost of your injuries far exceeds the at-fault driver’s injury liability limit, the auto insurance company of that driver will likely opt to settle quickly (at their liability limit), in order to avoid any future bad faith claims.
Why Do Some Cases Drag On?
- Disputes Over Liability
In cases where liability is disputed and the at-fault driver is in question, settlements can take a very long time to reach.
- Ongoing Injuries
If the injuries you sustained in your accident appear relatively minor (sprains and strains), but require prolonged, ongoing care, reaching a settlement is made substantially more difficult. In cases like this, it is difficult to estimate the total amount of compensation needed to cover the cost of your medical care.
- Insurance Company Lowball Offers and Purposeful Delays
Sometimes, your insurance provider or the insurance provider of the at-fault driver will offer you an unreasonably low amount of compensation.
This common tactic often results in delayed settlements, which makes those seeking compensation more financially desperate. This malicious tactic is used in hopes of reducing the total amount you are willing to settle for.
- Delays in Court
Factors such as court availability, judge availability, processing time, and scheduling delays can all contribute to your case taking longer to reach a settlement that expected.
Get David Get Paid
If you or a loved one was recently injured in an auto accident, make sure you get the best injury attorney in Michigan. Make sure you get David Femminineo. David and his team at Femminineo law have over 30 years of experience handling personal injury cases and will certainly be able to help you in the event of an auto accident.
Give us a call today at 855-65-CRASH or visit our website at www.getdavidgetpaid.com.
