Lafayette Truck Accident Settlement Process

For some accident victims, settling can provide fair compensation without the hassle of a trial. Insurance companies may offer to settle a case quickly, but their initial offers are often insufficient to compensate a victim for their losses.

If you need help negotiating a settlement, reach out to an experienced truck accident attorney today. A skilled Lafayette lawyer could provide guidance and support through every step of the truck accident settlement process.

Steps in the Settlement Process

The settlement process begins when a victim’s personal injury attorney sends a demand to the insurance company. This demand outlines the amount of money the victim is requesting to compensate them for their medical bills, prescriptions, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The demand package will request a dollar amount and include supporting documentation, such as medical bills, doctor’s notes, and proof of lost wages.

Once the insurance company receives the demand, they review it and respond to the attorney. They may accept the offer, make a counter-offer for a different amount, or say they are not willing to settle at this time.

Once the parties agree to a settlement amount, then the insurance company will issue a settlement check and release paperwork for the parties to sign.

How Long Does it Take to Settle a Case?

The length of time it takes to receive a settlement varies from case to case. One of the biggest variables is whether the victim is still treating for their injuries. It is wise to not settle a case while treatment is ongoing, so the longer someone requires medical care, the longer it will take to settle.

Having an attorney involved in the case will help expedite the process once treatment is complete because insurance companies tend to take attorneys more seriously than unrepresented victims. Additionally, experienced lawyers know how to provide complete and proper documentation in order to make the settlement process go as quickly as possible.

Potential Complications and Delays

A common issue that arises in the settlement process is incomplete documentation, such as missing medical bills or records. The insurance company may dispute an incomplete demand package, by claiming that certain medical treatment was unrelated to the accident. These issues can delay a settlement because the insurance company will demand additional paperwork and information.

To avoid potential complications and delays, an injury victim should have a lawyer on board handling the settlement. Victims can help their attorneys by keeping copies of any medical records and bills.

Benefits of a Lafayette Truck Accident Attorney

While it may be possible to pursue a truck accident claim alone, victims with experienced attorneys behind them are often more successful. Insurance companies may take advantage of unrepresented victims and try to quickly settle a case for an unfair amount. Lafayette attorneys have extensive experience in navigating the truck accident settlement process, and they know what a fair settlement is based on their knowledge of similar cases.

If you were hurt in a truck crash, reach out to an attorney today to find out how they could help you reach a fair settlement.