Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

How long does a car accident settlement take?

How long should a car accident settlement normally take? I got into an accident a while ago, and I'm just starting the claim process now. I don’t have the time and energy to deal with a long process.

avatar
Liz Jenson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“Accidents can be traumatic and taxing, but the claims process is fairly hands-off. Once you’ve filed, you’ll spend most of your time waiting. The timeframe of your settlement will largely depend on its complexity. Some settlements take months, others will take years. Here are some of the most common factors that determine the speed of your settlement:
  • How quickly the insurance company responds to your claim
  • The extent of the damages or injuries
  • The amount of negotiation involved
  • The amount of evidence you present
  • How easily fault can be determined
If you’re worried about your settlement taking too long, you could **speak with an
insurance lawyer
to speed things along. Of course, lawyers are expensive and should only be used as a last resort.
Remember, your insurance premium may increase when you file a claim. To make sure you’re still getting the best rate on the coverage you need, try
Jerry
. A licensed broker, the Jerry app can help you find and compare quotes from over 50 top providers for free. If you find the coverage you want, Jerry can even help you buy your new plan and cancel your old policy!”
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings