There is no one answer for how long it takes to settle a car accident case, as the circumstances surrounding every case are unique. A simple car accident with no complicating factors could settle quickly in a matter of months, while complex cases can take years to work through the details. Many factors determine how long it will take to settle a car accident case for compensation, including:
- The severity of the injuries and damages from the accident.
- The insurance company of the at-fault driver.
- The amount of documentation and evidence to support a claim for compensation.
- Problems determining who was liable for the accident.
- Pursuing compensation on your own vs. with an experienced lawyer.
Do I Have to Make a Full Recovery to Settle My Case?
When pursuing a settlement for car accident injuries, you need to be able to document all of your medical expenses present and future in order to make a claim for compensation. It is important to wait until your doctor determines you have reached what is known as “maximum medical improvement” before finalizing any settlement amount. You would not want to miss out on being compensated for the cost of any remaining treatment by rushing to settle your case.
Maximum medical improvement means you have reached the point at which further treatment is unlikely to improve your condition. However, you may still require future care, such as physical therapy. Waiting until you are fully recovered to settle your case means all of your medical costs can be incorporated into the settlement amount.
What Kind of Damages Can I Receive as Part of My Settlement?
Being involved in a car accident that was not your fault can be a traumatic experience. Seeking compensation is meant to make you whole again financially. A lawyer may seek to include some or all of the following damages in your settlement:
- Property damage: This includes your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the accident, such as your cellphone or valuable cargo.
- Medical bills: Hospital care, medications, transportation to treatment visits, and any out-of-pocket expenses you incur.
- Lost income: This is when you miss work while recovering from your accident injuries.
- Loss of future income: This is when injuries leave you unable to return to work or you are only able to earn at a lower capacity.
Pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life may also be options. If the accident resulted in the death of a loved one you may also seek compensation for loss of companionship.
Negotiating a fair settlement in a timely manner requires supporting your claim with well documented evidence, including medical records, police reports, and expert analysis. This can be difficult when trying to recover from your injuries. Contact an experienced car accident lawyer right away.
Alexandria Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Can Help You With Your Personal Injury Case
If you suffered injuries in a car accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact our Alexandria car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King today. Call us at 202-331-1963 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., Alexandria, Virginia, and National Harbor, Maryland, we serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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