Written in Partnership with Amir Bakian
Car accidents can be a physically, emotionally, and financially draining experience. A common question asked by victims involved in a car accident is, how long does it take to get a settlement check? This article aims to provide you with a better understanding of the process within California law, drawing from the expertise of Arash Law, one of California’s most distinguished injury law firms.
Reporting the Accident and Seeking Medical Attention
The first step after a car accident is to report it to the police and seek immediate medical attention. This not only ensures your health and safety but also establishes a clear record of the accident and any injuries sustained. It is important to gather necessary documentation, such as medical records, police reports, and evidence, as these will play a crucial role in determining the settlement amount.
Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney
Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney, like the ones at Arash Law, is highly recommended to navigate the complex legal process and advocate for your best interests. A skilled accident and injury lawyercan help you file your claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and potentially take your case to trial if a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached.
Filing a Claim and Settlement Negotiations
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. Once the claim is filed, the at-fault party’s insurance company will investigate and determine the compensation they are willing to offer. This is where settlement negotiations begin.
Factors Affecting the Settlement Timeline
The length of time it takes to receive a settlement check depends on several factors:
- The complexity of the case: More complex cases involving severe injuries or multiple parties may take longer to settle due to the need for extensive investigation and evidence gathering.
- Medical treatment duration: It’s essential to reach the point of maximum medical improvement before settling, as this ensures that all medical expenses are accounted for in the settlement amount.
- Negotiations with insurance companies: The negotiation process can be lengthy, especially if the insurance company is unwilling to offer fair compensation. A skilled attorney will fight for your best interests and refuse to accept inadequate offers.
Reaching a Settlement or Going to Trial
Once a settlement agreement is reached, it generally takes a few weeks to receive the settlement check. If an agreement cannot be reached, your attorney may advise you to proceed with a trial. Going to trial can prolong the process significantly, as court schedules and proceedings can take months or even years to conclude.
Getting Representation with Arash Law
Arash Law is a leading California injury law firm with an expert legal team of over 50 professionals who provide unparalleled customer service and results. They have a proven track record of winning multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. Arash Khorsandi, Esq., leads the team, which has received recognition through prestigious awards, including Premier Lawyer of America’s 2019 Top 40 Under 40.
With a commitment to getting clients the compensation they deserve, Arash Law goes the extra mile to ensure maximum compensation, medical bill coverage, lost wage recovery, and vehicle repair or replacement. They also come to your location, provide access to top medical specialists, and offer complimentary transportation.
Arash Law handles a variety of personal injury cases, including car, train, trucking, bus, motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian accidents, as well as wrongful death, premises liability, and work-injury accidents. Their compassionate approach towards clients is combined with fierce advocacy for their rights.
Final Thoughts
While it’s difficult to provide a specific timeline for receiving a settlement check after a car accident, it’s essential to prioritize your recovery and legal representation. Arash Law has extensive experience in handling car accident cases and has recovered over $400 million for their clients. Their expert team of attorneys will ensure that you receive the maximum compensation and help you navigate the complex settlement process.
For a free consultation, call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 or visit their website to learn more about their services. You can also connect with Arash Law on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, and LinkedIn. With Arash Law by your side, you can focus on your recovery and trust that your case is in the hands of dedicated professionals who will fight for the compensation you deserve.
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