Queens car accident lawyer Keetick L. Sanchez (https://accidentlawyer-queens.com/why-is-my-car-accident-settlement-taking-so-long/), of K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C., explores the reasons why car accident settlements often face unexpected delays, leaving victims in Queens dealing with financial strain and uncertainty. In a recent article, Sanchez discusses the factors that contribute to these delays and provides insight into how claimants can manage the legal process more effectively.
Car accident claims can take longer than anticipated for multiple reasons. Insurance companies may dispute liability, medical records may take time to compile, and negotiations over settlement amounts can extend the timeline. The complexity of New York’s no-fault insurance system also plays a significant role in determining how long a settlement will take. Queens car accident lawyer Keetick L. Sanchez explains that while some cases are resolved within weeks, others may take months or even years, especially if litigation is involved.
Queens car accident lawyer Keetick L. Sanchez emphasizes the importance of understanding the legal process to avoid frustration. "Delays in settlements can be frustrating, but they often stem from necessary legal and procedural steps. Knowing what to expect and working with a legal professional can help accident victims prepare for potential setbacks while helping ensure they receive fair compensation," Sanchez states.
The car accident settlement process in New York follows a series of steps, starting with filing a claim and reporting the accident to the insurance company. Insurance adjusters then evaluate the claim, review medical records, and determine liability before presenting an initial settlement offer. If both parties agree on an amount, the claim is resolved quickly. However, if there are disputes over compensation or liability, the process may take significantly longer.
New York's no-fault insurance system is designed to expedite minor claims by allowing injured parties to receive compensation through their own insurance providers regardless of fault. However, claims involving serious injuries or extensive damages often require additional legal action. In such cases, injured individuals must meet the state’s "serious injury" threshold before they can seek compensation beyond what their personal injury protection (PIP) coverage offers. This requirement can add months to the process as medical evaluations and legal arguments unfold.
Several factors can contribute to delays in car accident settlements. One of the most common reasons is the severity and complexity of injuries. When victims suffer significant injuries requiring long-term treatment, insurance companies often wait until the claimant reaches Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) before finalizing the settlement. This allows all medical expenses and future treatment costs to be accounted for in the claim.
Another major delay factor is disputes over liability. New York follows a pure comparative negligence system, meaning that each party involved in the accident may be assigned a percentage of fault. If liability is unclear or multiple parties are involved, settlement negotiations can become complicated, leading to prolonged legal battles.
Insurance companies also contribute to delays by using tactics such as slow response times, unnecessary requests for additional documentation, and offering low initial settlement amounts. In some cases, insurers deliberately stall the process in hopes that claimants will accept a lower offer out of financial desperation.
Queens car accident lawyer Keetick L. Sanchez highlights the importance of recognizing these tactics. "Insurance companies are businesses that aim to minimize payouts. Understanding their strategies and having strong legal representation can prevent claimants from being pressured into accepting unfair settlements," Sanchez explains.
Prompt medical treatment is also essential for speeding up the settlement process. Failing to seek medical care immediately after an accident can give insurance companies grounds to dispute the severity of injuries, further prolonging negotiations. Keeping detailed records of all medical expenses, lost wages, and accident-related costs can also help strengthen a claim.
For cases where settlement negotiations stall, legal professionals may recommend alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or arbitration. These approaches can sometimes resolve disputes more quickly than traditional litigation, allowing claimants to receive compensation sooner.
While many accident victims want a quick resolution, rushing into a settlement can be risky. Accepting an initial offer without a full evaluation of damages can leave victims without sufficient funds for ongoing medical care and other expenses. Queens car accident lawyer Keetick L. Sanchez advises claimants to carefully review any settlement offers with legal counsel before making a decision.
"Patience is key when dealing with insurance companies. While a fast settlement may seem appealing, it's important to ensure that the compensation offered truly covers all damages and future expenses," Sanchez states.
For those dealing with stalled settlements or insurance disputes, consulting with a legal professional can make a significant difference. Queens car accident lawyer Keetick L. Sanchez and the team at K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. can provide guidance and advocacy to help clients receive the compensation they deserve.
About K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C.:
K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. is a Queens-based law firm dedicated to representing individuals injured in car accidents, construction accidents, and other personal injury cases. Led by attorney Keetick L. Sanchez, the firm provides legal assistance to those seeking fair compensation for their injuries. With a strong commitment to client advocacy, the firm works to manage the complex aspects of personal injury law and insurance negotiations.
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