The moments and days following a car accident can be stressful and confusing. While seeking medical attention for your injuries should be the top priority, it’s also important to learn about your legal options for pursuing compensation. If you have decided to file a personal injury claim, it’s likely you will have many questions about the settlement process. With more than 25 years of experience, Michael D. Doyle, Attorney At Law is the ideal source to turn to for answers. Below, he addresses some frequent inquiries he hears from Elyria, OH, crash victims. 

Common Questions Concerning Car Accident Settlements 

1. What Can I Do to Help Prove My Case? 

Whether or not you receive a reasonable settlement offer from the negligent party’s insurance company will largely depend on how much evidence you have to prove your case. Collecting photos of the accident scene and your injuries, a police report, witness testimony, medical records, and lost wage information will go a long way toward showing why you deserve to be compensated. 

2. What Type of Damages Can I Recover? 

Recoverable damages vary from claim to claim based on the severity of the victim’s injuries. It’s common for personal injury settlements to include compensation for current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, and property damage. An insurance company will usually only make an offer contingent on the proof you’re able to provide. 

3. When Should I Settle My Claim? 

Though every personal injury case is unique, it’s typically recommended that you don’t settle your claim until the full extent of your injuries is known. Settling too soon could hinder you from getting the full amount you’re entitled to and need to help in the recovery process. However, there is a statute of limitations on filing car accident claims, so you don’t want to wait so long that you miss this deadline. 

4. How Long Does It Take to Settle a Claim?  

Settling a car accident claim can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few years. There are a number of factors that will determine how long it takes to resolve your case. This includes if there’s a dispute over liability, the extent of your injuries, and the insurance company’s willingness to negotiate. 

The more educated you are on settling a car accident claim, the better chance you will have of maximizing your compensation. Michael D. Doyle, Attorney At Law will work to get you a quick and fair settlement so you can move forward with your life. If you have additional questions regarding your personal injury case, call (440) 323-0001 to set up a consultation. Or, visit his website for more information on the legal services he provides.