Coping with Extended Settlement Timelines

When it comes to personal injury cases, typically all parties involved want to reach a settlement quickly. But even when both parties desire a smooth process, various factors can extend the settlement timeline.

Experienced Florida personal injury lawyers are familiar with situations that can prolong the settlement process. When you engage the services of a seasoned attorney, they will take steps to make the path to a full and fair settlement as smooth as possible.

Reasons for Longer Settlement Timelines

There are a range of reasons why settlement can take longer than expected, including the following in the following situations.

• Injuries are complex and there is an involved treatment plan. If you sustained severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment or rehabilitation, the settlement process could take longer than you were anticipating. This is because it is crucial to accurately assess the full extent of your injuries and their long-term impact on your life, which could take time if you have an ongoing treatment plan.
• Liability disputes. Arguments over who was the at-fault driver or the extent of each party’s responsibility can significantly prolong the process. Negotiation impasses and litigation are possible if defense lawyers or insurance companies contest liability.
• Inadequate or incomplete documentation. When there is not enough documentation it takes longer to settle a claim, which is why it is essential to have detailed medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and any other relevant evidence to support your claim gathered early on.
• Insurance company tactics. It is an unfortunate reality that some insurance companies employ various tactics to delay paying out on an injury claim. For instance, they may prolong the negotiation process, request more documentation than is truly needed, or make a series of lowball settlement offers. This could be done to frustrate you into accepting a low offer.

There are legal professionals who can help. When you connect with a knowledgeable Florida injury lawyer, they can guide you through the settlement process, help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure that your best interests are protected.

Maintain Records and Communicate with Creditors

Having detailed records related to your accident and injuries will strengthen your claim, so keep copies of medical bills, receipts for expenses, photographs of injuries and property damage, accident reports, and other relevant documents. Doing so means you will have the evidence you need, on hand, which can lead to a more efficient, timely outcome.

And if you have outstanding medical bills resulting from a Clearwater, Hudson, or Tampa accident, inform your medical creditors that your case is in the process of being settled. Informing them of your situation will likely provide you with some financial relief until the settlement is reached.

How long do you think it will take for you to receive your settlement? Having an injury lawyer by your side is invaluable for protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve quickly and efficiently. The attorneys at Roman & Roman have over 100 years of combined experience, schedule a free consultation today.

Although the law firm of Roman & Roman has offices in Clearwater, Hudson and Tampa, we handle cases and claims throughout  Florida. We also meet personally with our clients if at all possible, rather than impersonally over the phone or on the Internet.