When Connecticut car accident lawyers meet with their clients for the first time, they always hear the same question. People want to know how much their case is worth and how quickly they’ll see the money. No attorney worth their salt will encourage you to take the quick money if it isn’t a fair deal. The answer to this question is that, if your case settles, it will likely take months or even a year.
More than 95% of All Accident Cases do Settle Out of Court
Most people think that their case will end up in a big courtroom in front of a judge. It rarely works out this way. Most of the time, these cases settle long before trial. In fact, more than 95% of all personal injury cases settle out of court. This means that there’s a good chance that your case will settle too. How long that will happen depends on your case. Every case is unique. If your case involves several defendants, it may take longer to settle. The same is true if your claim is rather large. Your Hartford accident lawyer will ensure that they do their best to settle your case as quickly as possible without accepting a low-ball settlement offer.
There’s No Guarantee the Defendant Will Want to Settle
It’s important to remember that there’s no guarantee that your case will settle. Of course, most cases do. However, there’s always the exception to the rule. If the defendant truly thinks you were at fault, they may stick to their guns. Or, if they think they have a good shot at winning in court, they’ll hold out. If this happens, your Hartford accident lawyer will continue to work toward a settlement. But there’s no way to force the insurance company to settle the claim.
Is Your Hartford Accident Lawyer Dealing with an Insurance Company?
If you’re dealing with a defendant whose insurance company is involved, there’s a good chance your case will settle. Insurance companies don’t like to take the chance of losing in court. In fact, they don’t want to have to pay the thousands of dollars it’ll cost to go to trial.
Neither does your attorney. Trials are expensive and time-consuming. If you go to trial, there’s the chance that you could lose. Rather than have that happen, be patient. Your attorney will work hard to negotiate a settlement with the defendant or their insurance company.
You don’t Want to Take a Low Settlement Out of Desperation
The last thing you want to do is let the defendant or the insurance company know you’re desperate for a quick settlement. They’ll offer you a much lower amount than you’re entitled to. You may be tempted to take it. You need to make sure you talk to an experienced Hartford accident lawyer before you accept any settlement. They can review the terms and let you know if it’s a fair deal. If not, they can negotiate with the insurance company for a settlement that makes sense.
If you already have an attorney, they won’t encourage you to take less than you deserve. You must remember; they have your best interests in mind. Of course, they aren’t going to forbid you from accepting a settlement.
If you insist on taking what the other side is offering, they must honor your wishes. It’s just important to remember that they do know best. If your Hartford accident lawyer recommends that you hold out for more money, there’s a good reason.
Consult with a Skilled Hartford Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you’re probably anxious to get your claim paid. You may have medical bills piling up. The mechanic won’t release your car until the bill is paid in full. If your own insurance policy didn’t cover these things, your only choice is to pursue the defendant.
When you first meet with your Hartford accident lawyer, they’ll explain how they see your case proceeding. At some point, they will try to negotiate a settlement. However, they don’t want to rush the process. If you do that, you’ll look desperate. That’s the last thing you want.
The best advice is to trust your personal injury lawyer knows what they’re doing. They’ve been handling these types of cases for years. They know how to handle the big insurance companies. If you’re dealing with an individual, there’s a good chance you’ll have to sue and get a judgment.
Either way, your attorney knows what’s best. Call today and set up a time to come into the office. Take advantage of your free, initial consultation as soon as possible.