Once you’ve settled your injury case, it’s natural to want to receive your payment as quickly as possible. However, several factors can delay the process. If multiple defendants have their own insurance company, receiving all payments can take longer. However, your attorney should be able to give you an idea of how long you can expect to wait for your payment.
1. The Other Party Has Filed an Appeal
One common reason settlements may get delayed is if the other party has filed an appeal. This means they are not happy with the court’s decision and want a higher authority to review the case. This can often add months or even years to the timeline.
2. You Haven’t Submitted All of the Necessary Documentation
Another common reason your settlement might get delayed is that you haven’t submitted all the necessary documentation. The insurance company will need to see medical records, police reports, and other supporting documents before deciding on your claim. If you miss any of this information, it will likely delay the settlement process.
3. Your Medical Bills are Still Being Processed
If you’ve only recently received treatment for your injuries, your bills have not yet been finalized. Your insurance company will want a complete picture of your medical expenses before determining the size of your settlement. Therefore, if you’re still receiving treatment, it’s important to be patient and wait for all of your bills to come in before you expect payment. Otherwise, you might be disappointed with the amount you receive.
4. The Insurance Adjuster Needs More Time to Review Your Case
Adjusters often handle multiple claims at once, and they may need additional information before deciding on your claim. You can help by promptly providing any requested documentation if this is the case. It would help if you also kept in mind that the adjuster may be waiting on information from other parties involved in your claims, such as medical providers or repair estimates. In these cases, there is often little that you can do except be patient and wait for the adjuster to receive the necessary information.
5. The Insurance Company is Dragging Its Feet
One common reason your settlement might get delayed is that the insurance company is dragging its feet. The insurance adjuster may be overwhelmed with work or deliberately trying to stall in hopes that you will accept a lower settlement offer out of desperation. If you suspect that the insurance company is delaying your settlement, it’s important to speak to an attorney to get legal help in your settlement process.
6. Your Attorney is Working on Negotiating a Higher Settlement Amount
Another reason why your settlement might be delayed is if your attorney is working on negotiating a higher settlement amount. Your attorney may be able to negotiate a higher settlement if, for example, the insurance company originally offered a low amount or if there are complications with your case.
Conclusion
One of the most frustrating things about filing an insurance claim is the claims process’s uncertainty. The claims process can be complex and time-consuming, and delays are not uncommon. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to understand why your settlement might be delayed and what you can do to help move things along.
