How Long Will It Take Settle My Personal Injury Claim?

Sustaining a personal injury can be a life-altering event that can result in loss of income, medical expenses, and other injury-related costs. As a result, many people file personal injury claims to receive compensation for the damages incurred.

One of the most common questions that claimants ask is, “How long will it to settle my case?” Our Tacoma personal injury lawyers at Emerald Law Group understand the ins and outs of the claims process. We can protect your interests and help you fight for fair compensation for your damages and losses.

What Is a Personal Injury Settlement?

Before we dive into the details of getting a personal injury settlement, let’s first understand what it is. A personal injury settlement is a payment made to the claimant by the insurance company of the at-fault party to compensate for their losses. Most personal injuries cases do settle, but many go on to arbitration or trial. Accepting a personal injury settlement means that you are giving up your right to pursue legal action (like a trial or arbitration) against the person who injured you.

What is the Process?

When you are done treating for your injuries, your lawyer will get your medical records and bills, photographs, property-damage estimates, wage-loss records, and other relevant documents.  Your lawyer will submit them to the at-fault party’s insurance company with a settlement demand.  Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company to try to obtain a fair settlement for you.  If the insurance company doesn’t offer enough money, then your options are to proceed to trial or arbitration.

How to Determine if the Settlement Amount Is Fair?

One of the most important aspects of the personal injury claims process is determining if the settlement offer is fair. Insurance companies want to limit their losses, and they will offer the lowest amount if the claimant does not have legal representation. To ensure that you get a fair settlement, your personal injury lawyer will guide you on such aspects as the actual cost of the damages you have incurred, legal fees, determining pain and suffering, and calculating future losses.

A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You Settle for a Fair Amount

Getting a fair settlement isn’t always cut and dry. Insurance companies often drag the process out, hoping that you will take the initial offer or settle for far less than what you deserve. Fortunately, a personal injury lawyer can help you settle for a fair amount. A lawyer will investigate your case, negotiate with insurance companies, determine the true value of your injury costs, and take your case to court if necessary to get the maximum compensation available.

Want to Receive Fair Compensation? Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Getting a personal injury settlement check is typically a long and arduous process. However, with the right personal injury lawyer, the process can be expedited. Our lawyers at Emerald Law Group know what is necessary to get fair and maximum compensation for our clients. Get a free case evaluation by calling 206-826-5160.

Source:

americanbar.org/groups/public_education/resources/law_issues_for_consumers/injury_settle/