How Long Does it Take to Settle a Car Accident Claim?
The amount of time it takes to recover compensation through insurance for damages or injuries caused by a car accident can vary depending on the facts and circumstances of the claim.
If you have questions about how long it takes to settle a car accident claim, you should speak with a seasoned auto collision attorney from our firm as soon as possible. Our team could review the details of your situation, offer guidance on the next steps to take, and answer any other questions you may have about recovering compensation.
Insurance Claim Investigation Timelines
When an accident occurs, all parties involved should exchange insurance information and contact their insurer as soon as possible to start a claim. The length of the process will depend on factors such as whether the parties dispute fault.
Generally, LSA-R.S. § 22:1892 requires that an insurer send an adjuster to investigate a claim within 15 days of filing it. Once the claim is thoroughly investigated, the rule requires insurers to make a written settlement offer for a car accident claim within 30 days of receiving satisfactory proof of loss.
However, due to the complexities of investigating insurance claims, the state does not specify a time limit for insurers to investigate a claim. If an insurer’s delay in settling a claim is found arbitrary or without probable cause, they could face a penalty of 50 percent of the claim amount or $1,000, whichever is greater.
Insurance Requirements
According to Louisiana Revised Statutes Annotated § 32:900, state law requires that drivers maintain specific minimum insurance coverage limits. Drivers must hold a policy that provides a minimum of $15,000 in coverage for the injury or death of a single person, $30,000 in coverage for the injury or death of two or more people, and $25,000 for property damage from a single accident.
How Long Does it Take to Investigate a Claim?
The best way to ensure an insurance claim is processed in a timely manner is to promptly respond to the insurer’s request for information and keep a thorough record of relevant documentation and evidence related to the claim.
For example, an injured party should provide proof of their losses, such as receipts for medical expenses incurred due to the accident. Parties should also provide any information to the insurer that helps prove fault, such as police reports or photos of the accident.
The time it takes for an insurer to investigate a claim depends on several factors, including:
- The availability of witness testimony
- The extent of property damage or injuries
- The number of parties involved in the accident
- Any disputes or conflicting reports about the cause of the accident
A credible attorney could help you analyze the evidence of your car accident claim and work to expedite the settlement process.
Insurer Tactics to Delay Claims
Insurers may also employ tactics to unreasonably delay claim payments despite a party’s best efforts. These tactics can include:
- Repeatedly requesting additional or unnecessary information
- Disputing evidence provided by the claimant, such as medical records
- Blaming the insured or a third party for providing inadequate information
- Partially denying claims to pressure the party into accepting a lower settlement
Insurers may employ these tactics, hoping the frustrated party will settle a car crash claim for a lower amount. These tactics could also affect the claimant’s ability to sue since Louisiana has a one-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims under La. Code Civ. Proc. Ann. § 3492.
Speak With Our Team About the Timeline of a Car Accident Claim
To learn more about how long it takes to settle a car accident claim, connect with a trusted attorney from our firm. Given the state’s one-year deadline to file personal injury lawsuits, delays could result in losing your ability to pursue compensation. Our team could work on your behalf to prevent unreasonable delays from insurers and help you recover compensation as soon as possible. Call today.
