Skip to content
After a truck accident, victims often want to know the average time it takes to get a truck accident settlement. These accident cases are often complex with many variables and typically involve multiple parties and substantial damages. Thus, the truck accident settlement timeline varies, depending on the unique circumstances of each case.
Settling a truck accident case can take anywhere from a few months to over a year, depending on factors such as the nature and severity of injuries, how clear-cut the liability is, the availability of evidence, and the parties’ willingness to negotiate. Building a strong case to pursue the full compensation you deserve can take significant time.
At NST Law, we’re dedicated to providing clear guidance and effective representation to expedite resolutions for truck accident victims. We’ve secured more than $2 billion in settlements and verdicts. With office locations throughout Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Missouri, we’re available wherever you need us. Contact us online or call (800) 529-4004 for your free legal consultation.
Factors Influencing Settlement Timelines
Several factors can potentially impact the settlement timeline in your truck accident case.
Severity of Injuries and Medical Recovery
Truck collisions often result in severe or catastrophic injuries with long recovery times. Meanwhile, settlement negotiations generally can’t begin until the victim reaches maximum medical improvement. Therefore, extensive injuries requiring long-term care will likely prolong the settlement timeline.
Complexity of the Accident
Truck accidents tend to be more complex than regular car accidents. Accidents involving commercial trucks often involve the following:
- Multiple liable parties
- Overlapping insurance coverage
- The need for accident reconstruction experts
- Detailed review of trucking company records
- Review of trucking company policies and trucking industry regulations
- All of these factors can stretch out your truck accident settlement timeline.
Insurance and Liability Disputes
Disputes over the apportionment of fault among the potentially liable parties can lead to settlement delays. Cases where liability is obvious typically settle faster than those in which fault is contested.
Evidence Collection and Expert Analysis
Evidence collection and expert analysis can significantly extend a settlement timeline. Attorneys and experts need additional time to gather and analyze evidence such as the following:
- Accident reports
- Eyewitness accounts
- Surveillance footage
- Data from electronic logging devices and electronic data recorders
- Truck maintenance records
- Employment records
- Hours-of-service records
- Expert testimony from accident reconstruction and medical professionals
Incomplete evidence may lead to delays and weaken your truck accident claim. Obtaining the strongest evidence can accelerate claim resolution by reducing disputes. In addition, the trucking company is typically the source for much of this evidence, and it might be hesitant to hand it over. Contact an attorney as soon as possible so they can begin gathering the evidence you need to prove your case.
Settlement Negotiation and Legal Proceedings
Some cases resolve quickly during settlement negotiations and never see the inside of a courtroom. However, if settlement negotiations fail, the case may proceed to litigation, significantly extending the timeline.
Truck Accident Verdicts and Settlements
NST Law has a proven track record of securing significant verdicts and settlements for truck accident victims. Our attorneys fight hard to secure just compensation for accident victims.
Client Testimonials
Typical Timeline for Truck Accident Cases
Every truck accident case is different, and no timeline is ever guaranteed. However, these are the general amounts of time you can expect individual stages of the settlement process to take.
Remember: Patience Pays Off
While truck accident settlements can take time, don’t rush for a fast resolution. Insurers may prey on your vulnerability after a truck accident to pressure you into accepting a quick, undervalued settlement offer with promises of quick cash in hand. These offers may be tempting, but patience is essential to avoid leaving money on the table.
Our compassionate attorneys are here to support you in your hour of need. We’ll work to protect your rights and push for the compensation you deserve.
Initial Steps (Weeks to Months):
The first phase of a lawsuit typically takes a few weeks to a few months. This phase includes steps such as your initial free consultation, collecting initial evidence and records, and filing insurance claims. Remember that your attorney isn’t just opening a file for you; they’re laying the complete foundation of your case.
Investigation and Documentation (Weeks to Months):
The next step in the settlement process is the investigation and documentation of evidence from your case. This phase includes a comprehensive accident examination and analysis by your legal team, which may involve consulting experts. Your attorney will also establish liability and calculate damages.
Negotiation Phase (Weeks to Months):
During the negotiation phase, your attorney will engage in settlement talks with insurance adjusters and the opposition’s opposing legal teams. Your attorney will calculate an initial demand for compensation. Settlement offers and counteroffers will be exchanged during this phase.
Litigation Phase (Months to Over a Year):
The litigation phase can be the longest part of a truck accident lawsuit. If settlement negotiations fail, your attorney will file a lawsuit, commencing the discovery process and trial preparation. Going to trial and potentially appealing your case can significantly extend the time it takes to receive your settlement.
Steps To Take for a Faster Settlement
Follow these steps to help secure a faster truck accident settlement:
- Prompt Legal Action: Contact an experienced truck accident attorney immediately to help preserve and secure critical evidence.
- Comprehensive Documentation: Provide thorough and accurate records, including medical reports and accident evidence.
- Proactive Communication: Consistently communicate with your attorney to address issues promptly.
- Engaging Experts Early: Expert witnesses in accident reconstruction, medical care, and other fields can strengthen your case and speed up negotiations.
- Monitoring Deadlines: Submit all claims and legal filings within the statute of limitations to avoid case dismissal.
- Pre-Litigation Dispute Resolution: Strategically leverage mediation or other forms of alternative dispute resolution, or ADR, to settle disputes quickly and avoid costly litigation.
How NST Law Can Help
NST Law complements the steps to expedite settlement by offering the following services:
Knowledgeable Representation
The attorneys at NST Law have extensive experience handling complex truck accident cases. We’re highly skilled in negotiating with insurance companies and opposing counsel, and you can feel secure knowing that your attorney knows what they’re talking about.
Thorough Case Preparation
Your lawyer will conduct a detailed investigation to build a strong case. NST Law has immediate access to expert witnesses and advanced evidence analysis to strengthen your claim.
Aggressive Settlement Negotiations
Our attorneys go to the mat during settlement negotiations and don’t settle for less than you deserve. We employ strong legal strategies to minimize delays and resolve claims promptly. We engage with insurance companies proactively to avoid unnecessary litigation.
Client-Centered Approach
Your NST Law attorney won’t leave you in the dark. We aim to provide our clients with transparent communication and regular case updates. We’re committed to achieving the best possible outcome as efficiently as possible rather than dragging out a case.
Comprehensive Support
At NST Law, we don’t just handle representation. We provide comprehensive support to truck accident victims, including medical care coordination and financial planning during the claim process. We also offer guidance on maximizing compensation by identifying all available sources of recovery.
Our Truck Accident Lawyers Can Help
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait. Securing strong legal representation from a truck accident lawyer and filing your claim early are critical to shortening your truck accident settlement timeline and maximizing your compensation. Contact NST Law online or by phone at (800) 529-4004 for a free consultation. We can answer any questions about the settlement process and advise you about your legal options.
