Car accidents are among the most common insurance claims filed each year. With driving being an essential part of daily life for many residents across Louisiana, accidents involving automobile unfortunately happen more often. If you or your family have been injured in a car accident, you may need to seek justice and compensation for those injuries.
At Pierce & Shows, our experienced Baton Rouge personal injury attorneys are here to guide you through the entire process. If this is your first experience with a car accident claim, the process can seem daunting, but our team is here to help you every step of the way.
What to Expect from the Insurance Negotiation Process in Louisiana
The first step in seeking compensation after a car accident is to hire a knowledgeable and experienced personal injury attorney. Your attorney should have extensive experience and should be well-equipped to advocate in behalf of you throughout the insurance negotiation process. Here’s what to expect after hiring a lawyer:
- Gathering Information: In addition to your insurance claim number, your attorney will need your medical records and bills related to the accident. This documentation is critical for the settlement demand.
- Submitting the Settlement Demand: Once all necessary information is gathered, your attorney will send a settlement demand to the responsible insurance company.
- Waiting for a Response: Most insurance companies review will review and respond to the claim within 30 days. They will respond with an offer to settle, and you and your attorney can decide whether the offer is sufficient compensation for the injuries sustained, treatment, and the healing process.
- Negotiation: If the insurance company’s offer is not sufficient, your attorney will negotiate on your behalf to ensure fair compensation for your injuries, medical treatment, and recovery.
How Long Is the Insurance Negotiation Process in Louisiana?
The time it takes to settle a car accident claim varies depending on several factors. In general, you can expect the process to take at least one to two months after filing your claim. However, several factors can impact the timeline, and in more complex cases, it may take longer.
- Simple claims with minor injuries can typically be resolved within a few months.
- More severe or complicated claims may take significantly longer, especially if additional evidence, treatments, or parties are involved.
- If you decide to take a car accident lawsuit case to trial, of course, many details could vary and the process could take much longer than a typical negotiation for a settlement.
What Factors Can Cause Delay to the Personal Injury Claim Process?
Several factors may lengthen the negotiation process of your personal injury claim in Louisiana. The more complicated the accident and injuries, the longer the negotiation process may take. Here are some common factors that can lead to delays:
- Severity of the Accident and Injuries: The more severe the injuries, the longer the process may take. Your personal injury attorney needs medical documents and bills to make the settlement demand. The settlement shouldn’t close until you complete the healing process.
- Number of Involved Parties: Accidents involving multiple vehicles or parties can slow the process as there are more individuals and insurance companies to negotiate with.
- Amount of Financial Compensation: The higher the amount of compensation requested, the more likely it is that negotiations will take longer, as the insurance company may try to reduce the amount.
- Discovery Process: Discovery involves gathering information from all parties, including medical records, witness statements, and other documentation. The more complex the discovery process, the longer the settlement may take.
Your Baton Rouge personal injury attorney at Pierce & Shows will work diligently to move the process forward, but it’s important to remain patient during the discovery and negotiation phases.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims in Louisiana
In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is one year from the date of the accident, as outlined in Louisiana Civil Code Article 3492. This means you must file your claim within one year of the accident, or you risk losing your right to seek compensation.
Acting promptly after a car accident is essential. If you wait too long, critical evidence may be lost, and your ability to recover damages may be compromised.
Contact A Baton Rouge Personal Injury Attorney at Pierce & Shows
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, the settlement process may take time, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Hiring an experienced attorney is the first step toward securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
At Pierce & Shows, our Baton Rouge personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping you and your family through this difficult time. We’ll work tirelessly to protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
Contact us today at 225-388-9574 to schedule a free, no-pressure consultation. Let us help you obtain the legal protection and compensation you and your family deserve.
