How long should it take for the insurance company to settle my claim?
In California, the insurer of the at-fault party must respond and acknowledge your accident claim within 15 days. Typically, the insurance company will begin their accident assessment which can take anywhere from a few days to several months to complete depending on the parties, circumstances and other details related to the accident.
It’s important to know that most insurance companies often take measures that can delay or prolong the assessment process and consequently, the settlement of your claim. During this time, they are building their own case to pay as little on your claim as possible. In the meantime, you’re faced with financial burdens and pressure resulting from the inability to work, or the seemingly insurmountable medical bills associated with your accident injuries. At that point, the insurance company may make you an initial offer, which you may be tempted to accept even when you know it’s far lower than you or your injury deserve.
If you’re concerned that these delay or lowball tactics are being used to force you into a lower settlement, a talk with our Dunnion Law team may be your next best step.