Auto Accident Law 101

Why It's Probably Not Too Late To Settle Your Vehicle Accident Case

22 February 2023

Everett Cook

Vehicle accident settlements can happen far more quickly than taking a case to court. However, it can take several months for many cases to settle. You could even give up on a settlement and file a lawsuit. However, it may not be too late to settle your case even if you file suit. Read on to find out more about how long settlements can take to resolve and what can happen as you prepare to take your case to trial. 

How Fast Are Settlements?

Compared to waiting many months (sometimes more than a year) for a court case to begin, a settlement is fast. How fast your case is settled depends on the circumstances of your case. Below are a few issues that could cause your settlement to take a bit longer:

• Initially, you and the other driver both claimed to be the innocent victim of the crash. However, evidence surfaced eventually that proved you are the victim.
• Your personal injury lawyer evaluated your losses and presented a demand to the other driver's insurance company. However, they disputed some of the damages. They might have disagreed with the amount of your pain and suffering, for example, which can vary from case to case.
• Your injuries were extremely severe, and your doctor is planning to perform additional surgeries. You will also need more physical therapy, medication, etc., and your medical needs could extend for a few years. However, the other side is disputing your need for additional medical treatment later and is refusing to pay that part of the settlement. 

If the above cannot be resolved, it can not only take longer to come to a settlement, but it can also mean you must take the other party to court. 

It's Not Too Late

In some cases, the chances for a settlement hinge on something small. It could be something as minor as the demeanor of a victim as they testify at a deposition about the way the accident has affected their lives. It could be a photograph of a wrecked vehicle as it's admitted into evidence. During the run-up to a trial, the parties participate in discovery procedures. Evidence and testimony, previously not known by both parties, are presented and made public. However, for accident victims, discovery is an opportunity to show the other driver's insurer what they will be facing in court. 

Speak to your car accident lawyer about what might happen as your case goes through discovery. You can be offered a settlement up to the time the verdict is read in the courtroom, so don't give up.

For more information, contact a car accident lawyer.

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