4 Factors That Influence The Time It Takes To Settle A Personal Injury Claim

When you're injured due to the negligent actions of someone else, receiving the compensation you deserve in a timely manner is always the goal. It's important to understand that the phrase timely can vary. Your situation is unique to you, so the amount of time it takes to process your claim will also be unique. Learning some of the key factors that influence time can put this into perspective and keep you less stressed:

Due Time

Just as your attorney is actively preparing your claim, the attorney for the other party involved in the incident is doing the same. The law requires that each party is given plenty of time for preparation. If the case is expected to proceed and the opposing side makes a valid request for more time, it may be granted, once again extending the length of your claim. Keep this idea in mind.

Communication

Your attorney is representing you, but they aren't you. For this reason, there are certain decisions that only you can make. When these moments arise and your attorney is unable to get in contact with you, you're only extending the amount of time until your case is settled. It is important for clients and attorneys to have an open line of communication for this reason. If your attorney is trying to contact you, ensure you're responding at your earliest convenience.  

Claim Value

If you are requesting a settlement amount that is high, you should expect that your claim might move a little slower than someone who is settling their claim for a much lower amount. The more money involved, the more research, negotiations, and quite frankly, delaying tactics, you should expect. However, in these instances, an attorney may make a request to ensure medical bills and other pertinent expenses are paid as the case progresses.

Maximum Medical Improvement

If the injuries sustained are not necessarily permanent, your case may not be finalized until you have reached the point of maximum medical improvement. This is the period when a physician determines that the healing phase is over and you have reached your highest level of recovery. This is a common scenario in cases that involve surgery or physical therapy. The other party's representation will argue that they can't value the claim until you've reached this point.

When you understand the complexities that come along with settling a claim, this can help put your mind at ease and give you confidence that your case is moving forward, even when you think it isn't. Contact a law office like Gartner Law Firm for more information and assistance.