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Modified on
May 06, 2025
After your car accident, you may be in a hurry to receive compensation to replace your car, cover your medical expenses and replace your lost wages. However, the length of time your claim takes depends on the insurance company and whether you can reach a fair settlement or must take your case to court.
Here is the timeline your case may follow, depending on your circumstances.
Reporting the accident
After any collision involving $1,000 or more in damages, drivers have five days to report the accident. This report will be important as evidence for your claim whether you settle or go to court.
Filing a claim with the insurance company
The insurance company may immediately offer a settlement. If the amount is adequate to cover your losses, you may want to accept it. However, you will want to carefully evaluate and answer the following questions:
- How much was each party at fault?
- Do you have evidence to show fault and the amount of damages you are claiming?
- How much are your car repairs and medical bills?
- Will you require future medical treatment or ongoing care?
- Have you missed work due to your injuries?
- Have you suffered emotionally and physically because of the accident?
- How much insurance coverage does the at-fault party have?
The amount of insurance coverage may play a major role in the decision to accept or reject a settlement offer. If the at-fault party has only the mandatory minimum insurance coverage , the limit is $25,000 for your injury expenses, or $50,000 for everyone in the accident who sustained injuries. Only $25,000 is available to cover property damage. This may not be nearly enough to cover your medical bills and replace your car, let alone cover your other damages.
