Idaho Car Accident Settlement Timeline

A common question many car accident victims have is how long it will take to settle their claim and get the money they need. The truth is that many factors play a role in the Idaho car accident settlement timeline, making it difficult to predict.

While there is no fixed timeline, working with an Idaho car accident lawyer could ensure you are seeking a fair payout. We understand that you want to put all of this behind you, but in your haste, you could accept a settlement that fails to cover your losses. It is important not to accept a lowball offer. A lawyer can protect you from this mistake, build your case, and fight for the maximum compensation possible.

Factors That Affect How Long an Idaho Car Accident Settlement Takes

Many factors can affect the timeline of a car accident settlement. Understanding these factors and how they affect your case can help you predict how long it might take to close your crash claim. These factors include:

The Injuries and Necessary Medical Treatment

When a car accident causes severe injuries, it may take longer to settle because victims require ongoing medical care. This situation makes it more difficult to fully assess their expenses and losses. Generally, negotiations do not begin until the victim reaches maximum medical improvement. In some cases, experts may need to weigh in on a prognosis and future care needs, too.

Liability Disputes and Comparative Fault

Idaho follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This doctrine means victims can recover compensation for their damages as long as they are not 50 percent or more at fault. The insurance companies and liable parties may try to dispute fault in the accident. They may try to blame its entirety on the victim or say the victim played a much bigger role than they did to undervalue or deny a claim. This can cause settlement negotiations to take longer or force the case to court.

Insurance Company Cooperation and Policy Limits

Sometimes, an insurance company might attempt to pay less by intentionally delaying your claim. This can occur when they request more documentation or information beyond what is necessary, make numerous lowball offers, or do not assess the claim in a timely manner.

There could also be delays if the damages exceed the at-fault party’s policy limits. This can lead to litigation or extended negotiations.

Investigation and How Long It Takes to Collect Evidence

Documenting fault and liability in a car accident takes time. It may take weeks or even months to obtain police reports, medical records, and witness statements. If there are disputes about liability or future care needs, experts may need to weigh in. These experts could include accident reconstruction specialists, doctors, life care planners, economists, and more.

Whether a Lawsuit Is Necessary

If settlement negotiations fail, filing a lawsuit may be necessary. The legal process takes time. Litigation will follow Idaho’s Rules of Civil Procedure, which will require each side to participate in discovery and depositions, court appearances, pretrial motions, and possibly mediation.

If there is still no settlement, a court date will be set. However, many areas have busy civil dockets. This delay could mean you are months from a trial date when it is time to schedule one.

How the Idaho Car Accident Claims Process Works

Understanding the Idaho car accident claims process can help you see why it takes so much time.

The claims process begins with reporting the accident. Under Idaho Code § 49-1305, Idaho law requires you to report any accidents that involve injury, death, or serious property damage. Idaho has fault-based car accident laws, meaning you can hold the at-fault driver legally responsible, and they should have auto liability insurance to pay for your damages.

If their insurance carrier will not pay for your damages through a negotiated settlement, you can sue them and ask a judge or jury to award fair compensation. Under Idaho Statutes § 5-219, you generally have two years from the accident date to begin this lawsuit. An Idaho personal injury lawyer can manage this process for you from the start.

Steps You Can Take Following an Idaho Car Accident Settlement

While there is no way to make the car accident settlement process faster, taking the right steps from the start can keep the process on track and ensure it moves as quickly as possible. Some ways you can help your case include:

1. Get prompt medical attention for your injuries and follow all recommendations made by your doctor until they release you from treatment.
2. When possible, gather strong evidence to support your claim. When the police arrive at the accident, ask about getting a copy of the police report. If your injuries permit, take photos of the accident scene, the damage, and injuries. Also, keep all your medical records and bills.
3. Work with a car accident attorney from the start. They will handle your case while you heal.

What Can You Do Today to Help Your Idaho Car Accident Case Settle?

It is important to remember that you do not want to rush a settlement and settle for less than you need or deserve. The timeline for car accident settlements in Idaho can vary widely based on the case details and complexity. The best thing you can do for your peace of mind and the best possible outcome is to work with an attorney to navigate the process properly and efficiently.

Having a car accident lawyer managing your case ensures you can focus on your treatment and healing while they investigate, build a case, and deal with the insurance company. You get better, and they take care of the rest.

Discuss Your Idaho Car Accident Case With Our Team for Free

At Sargent Law Firm Injury Lawyers, we have more than 400 5-star reviews from former clients. We have a long history of securing compensation through settlements, verdicts, and judgments. You can learn more during a free consultation with our team. We can review your options, discuss how an Idaho car accident lawyer from our team can help, and explain the car accident settlement process.

Contact us today to get started.