Even attentive and safe drivers may find themselves in an auto accident at some point. Suddenly, you must cope with your physical injuries, expensive medical bills, car repairs, and other costs associated with the accident. As you navigate the days, weeks, and months after suffering an auto accident injury in Southern California, you probably want to know when you’ll be able to receive the compensation you need to support your recovery. Let’s take a look at some of the factors that influence how long your auto accident settlement timeline may take.
Take Action as Soon as Possible
The hours and days following an auto accident can be chaotic, especially if you’ve suffered a significant injury that requires a hospital stay. Even if you do not require immediate medical attention, schedule an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible so they can document the nature and extent of your injuries. This documentation will prove useful when you move forward with an auto accident claim. You can also strengthen your claim by taking pictures at the scene, gathering contact information for any witnesses, and contacting the police at the scene so a police report can be filed. You should notify your insurance company about the accident to get the claims process moving as swiftly as possible.
Factors That May Prolong the Accident Settlement Timeline
In general, accident claims involving minor injuries or where one party is clearly at fault tend to move forward more quickly. Factors such as the degree of your injury, disputes about each driver’s responsibility in causing the accident, the quality or quantity of available evidence, the amount of compensation you are seeking, and court timeliness can affect how long it takes to settle your claim. While it’s natural to want to accept the initial settlement offer so you can obtain compensation, it’s usually worth it to push for a more favorable settlement. Most insurers want to avoid litigation, so they will typically engage in further negotiations with you and your attorney—resulting in a better settlement for you.
Work With a Skilled Temecula Auto Accident Lawyer
Auto accident injuries can be overwhelming. However, you do not have to navigate this difficult time alone. Enlisting the support of an experienced Temecula auto accident lawyer is a great way to ensure that you obtain a fair and favorable settlement. Your attorney can step in to communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, working hard to secure you the best outcome. Let your attorney handle these negotiations while you focus on your physical recovery.
If you need help collecting compensation following an auto accident in Temecula or Murrieta, call Hales & Associates, A Professional Law Corporation, today at (951) 489-3320 to get started.