How long it takes to settle a claim with USAA insurance depends on the facts of the case and many other variables. Like other car insurance companies, there is no way of knowing how long it could take to settle with USAA.
Many cases settle within a few weeks, but others take several months. If the case goes to trial, it could take a year or longer. Working with a traffic accident attorney is the best way to ensure that you get a fair payout based on your accident-related damages.
Understanding the Claims Process
At its most basic, an insurance claim is a demand for USAA to pay an accident victim for the costs and losses they incurred because of the policyholder’s negligence. Your attorney will gather evidence to support your claim and prepare paperwork that outlines what a fair settlement would be for your case.
A claims adjuster from USAA will investigate the accident as well. They will determine what they believe the claim is worth and make a counteroffer. This initial offer is generally much lower than the payout your lawyer requested – and this is when settlement negotiations begin.
Your attorney will work on your behalf to seek a fair and just agreement with USAA. If they do not agree to a compromise that is appropriate based on your damages, you can sue their policyholder who caused the crash.
When Is a Claim Most Likely to Settle?
Most claims do not require a lawsuit. Your traffic accident lawyer can negotiate a settlement before the time comes to sue. However, if they do sue the at-fault driver, USAA is likely to step up and offer a better settlement to avoid their policyholder having to go to trial.
This is especially true if they recognize that your attorney has a strong case to show:
- Their policyholder caused the accident
- The at-fault driver acted carelessly or recklessly
- You suffered serious injuries or significant expenses and losses
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 537-8185
What Factors Affect How Long a Case Takes to Settle?
Factors that can make a difference in how long a case takes to settle include:
- How long it takes to investigate the accident
- Whether or not the at-fault driver accepts responsibility
- If the insurer denies the claim or refuses a fair settlement
- When there are allegations that the victim contributed to causing the accident
- The victim’s losses are significant
- The victim’s injuries are difficult to prove
When a case goes to trial – a lengthy and involved process that often takes a year or longer – it will significantly affect the timeline for receiving compensation. However, most car accident cases that require filing a lawsuit never go to trial. The attorney and the insurer reach an out-of-court settlement long before the trial date arrives.
While there is no deadline for filing a claim, there is a deadline for suing the at-fault driver. This, in turn, creates a deadline for taking other action in the case. Examples of these deadlines include:
- One year in Louisiana ( Civ. Code Art. 3492)
- Two years in Alabama ( Code § 6-2-38)
- Three years in Arkansas ( Code Ann. § 16-56-105)
- Three years in Mississippi ( Code Ann. § 15-1-49)
A Fair Settlement Is More Important Than How Long It Takes
It is imperative that you understand what justice looks like in your case and focus on getting a fair settlement for your damages. If you work with an attorney, they will value your claim for you and then pursue compensation based on this value.
Ensuring that you recover enough money to pay your medical bills, cover lost wages, and compensate for any other losses is the primary goal of filing a claim. It may take longer, but you do not want to settle for less than you deserve.
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A Personal Injury Law Firm Can Handle Your Claim While You Focus on Healing
One of the best ways to ensure that you get a fair settlement is to work with a law firm that regularly manages accident cases in your area. They will know how to build a case and fight for a fair settlement, while navigating the claims process on your behalf. They will also have trial lawyers who will not hesitate to sue if necessary.
Most law firms provide free consultations and case assessments so you can discuss the specifics of your accident and learn about your legal options without worrying about any upfront fees. It is ideal if the law firm works on a contingency basis, which means they do not charge for their services unless they win your case.
Connect with the Morris Bart, LLC Team Today
The Morris Bart law firm offers complimentary consultations to accident victims in the many areas we serve. You can speak with a team member about your USAA claim today for free. Call us now at (800) 537-8185 to get started.
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