
It is impossible to tell how long it takes for a truck accident claim to settle. While there is no average time for a truck accident settlement, the length it takes in your case can depend on several factors, such as:
Liability
It can be notoriously complicated and lengthy to establish liability in a truck accident case. Any liable parties are likely to fight liability claims, which can lead to legal investigations that can delay any settlements. However, it often takes thorough investigation and research to establish liability and give a victim the best chance to recover adequate compensation.
Insurance
It is possible that several parties are in part responsible for your accident. In this case, various insurance companies may provide coverage and contribute to your overall settlement. It can take some investigative work by a truck accident attorney to uncover policies and conditions, as well as negotiating with insurances.
Your Injuries
If you suffered serious injuries and need extensive treatment, a settlement may take longer to achieve. Generally, cases are settled when the victim is either fully recovered or on the road to full recovery, as only then is it possible to properly calculate the extent of your damages and medical bills. This can take time, especially in truck accident cases where injuries can be extensive and life-altering.
If the liable party will not negotiate an appropriate settlement, your case may go to court, which can add more time to settling your claim. Although waiting for compensation can be stressful, some of the factors delaying your settlement can actually work in your favor.
Insurance companies typically want to settle a claim quickly and in their favor. Taking time to properly investigate an accident and waiting until all your medical expenses are calculable, including future expenses, can potentially lead to a more favorable settlement. Agreeing to settle too quickly can mean that you leave money on the table.
If you would like to find out how long a settlement may take in your case, you can speak to a truck accident lawyer who may be able to give you an indication of how long your truck accident claim may take to settle.
Establishing Negligence and Responsibility
The most important part of receiving a timely settlement for your truck accident case will be establishing who is responsible as soon as possible. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), many truck accidents are driver-related. However, unlike with a car accident, truck accident negligence is complicated, and there may be several parties responsible for your damages apart from the truck driver, for example:
- The trucking company
- A third-party vendor such as a maintenance mechanic
- A truck or part manufacturer
Having potentially several liable parties to your case can make a settlement complicated and lengthy, with several insurance companies potentially involved. In a truck accident case, it can be helpful to have a truck accident lawyer by your side who can advise you.
Settling In or Out of Court
How long it takes for a truck accident claim to settle also depends on whether you can reach an agreement with the liable party out of court. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), most personal injury cases are settled out of court. Settling a case out of court can speed things up considerably, as court cases can often be lengthy and last several years.
However, it depends on your individual case whether an out-of-court settlement is preferable. For example, if the liable parties are dragging their feet, and the insurance company will only offer a small settlement that might not cover all your costs and damages, a lawsuit might be your best option. A truck accident lawyer can advise you on the best course of action.
Damages Available in Truck Accidents
In a truck accident settlement or lawsuit, you could receive compensation for the following damages, among others:
- Present, past, and future medical expenses.
- Rehabilitation expenses.
- Lost wages and future lost wages.
- Domestic help.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Pain and suffering.
- Disfigurement and disability.
In a court case, you could also receive punitive damages if a defendant’s reckless actions caused your accident and damages.
Contact Our Firm About Your Settlement
If you have any questions about your truck accident case and how long it could take to receive a settlement and compensation, consulting with a truck accident lawyer can help.
We can help you with every aspect of a truck accident case, even if you do not intend to take the case to court. We can negotiate and fight on your behalf with any insurance companies, always keeping your best interests at heart. Timely action can be important, so call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today and speak with one of our team members about your truck accident case at (800) 794-0444.