Catania and Catania | March 13, 2025 | Car Accidents
If you’ve been in a car accident and reached a settlement, you’re probably wondering: how long does it take to get settlement money from a car accident? The short answer? It depends. Multiple factors affect the timeline, such as insurance processing time, paperwork, and negotiations. At Catania and Catania, we assist Tampa clients with the process so they can receive compensation sooner rather than later.
What Is a Car Accident Settlement?
A settlement for a car accident is a legal agreement between the injured party and the other driver’s insurance company to settle a claim outside of a courtroom. Rather than let it go to trial, the insurance company agrees to pay a negotiated sum that covers medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and/or pain and suffering.
Most settlements are straightforward, but negotiation can help guarantee fair compensation. While an out-of-court settlement is typically quicker than a litigation process, it’s not always immediate. The timeline can depend on elements such as the severity of the injuries and the insurers’ cooperation. Legal advice will increase the likelihood of a favorable resolution.
Typical Timeline to Reach a Car Accident Settlement
The time it takes to settle a car accident claim varies based on case complexity, insurance policies, and negotiation factors. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Initial Claim Filing (1-2 weeks): Following an accident, the first step is to file a claim with the insurance agency. This includes calling the insurance provider, explaining the accident, and, if needed, providing images and statements.
- Investigation and Medical Treatment (1-6 months or longer): Before the insurance company agrees to a settlement, they must first verify damages, compile all medical documents, interview witnesses to the accident, examine any available police record, and reach a verdict on who is responsible for the accident.
- Negotiation Process (weeks to months): Your lawyer will interface with the insurer to obtain satisfactory compensation. The duration of this stage will depend on how far the insurer is willing to negotiate and whether further evidence or expert opinion is needed.
- Settlement Agreement (1-2 weeks): After arriving at a reasonable settlement, an agreement is made and signed by both parties, which contains the payment details, as well as contingencies.
- Payment Processing (2-6 weeks): A settlement check is processed after the customer signs the agreement, but this requires approval and adherence to appropriate legal and contract obligations.
How Long Does It Take to Get Settlement Money from a Car Accident?
Once a settlement has been finalized, most individuals will see their money within two to six weeks of signing the final paperwork. However, if there are delays in processing due to insurance, liens, or other legal hurdles, this process can take longer.
After the settlement is agreed upon, the insurance company reviews the necessary documents and issues a check, which typically takes around two weeks. The check is then sent to your attorney’s office and deposited into a trust account.
Before you receive your portion, any outstanding medical liens or legal fees must be settled. Once these deductions are accounted for, the remaining funds are released to you. If there are no complications, this process moves quickly.
Nevertheless, if the insurance company delays issuing the check or needs additional approvals, it can take longer than usual.
Why Is My Car Accident Settlement Taking So Long?
You might not have your settlement funds in hand for several reasons. One of the reasons for this is the glacial pace at which insurance companies seem to work—which, according to DSNY, requires them to leisurely pore over paperwork, issue checks, or contest claims so that they pay out as little as possible. Your attorney must pay your outstanding medical bills and liens before any funds are disbursed.
Multi-vehicle disputed liability cases or serious injury cases generally take more time since negotiations are complex. Some settlements, like interactive minors and structured payment settlements for each, require court oversight, which also adds additional time.
We at Catania and Catania know firsthand just how annoying these waits can be. That is why we diligently push to expedite the process so that all papers are completed in a timely manner, and your claim moves forward at warp speed. We aim to help you receive the compensation you deserve without unnecessary delays so you can focus on recovery.
Need Help Getting Your Settlement Money? Contact Us Today!
It can be frustrating to cope with settlement delays when trying to move your life forward, and medical expenses and other bills are piling up. If you are having trouble accessing your settlement money or need professional help, Catania and Catania can help you. Call 813-222-8656 for a free consultation, and let us help you recover the compensation you deserve.
