How Long Does It Take to Settle a Semi-Truck Accident Claim in NJ

If you’ve been in an accident with a semi-truck, you’re likely dealing with a lot: medical bills, vehicle repairs, and a whole lot of stress. One of the first questions that may come to mind is, “How long is this going to take?” 

We get it—when your life is turned upside down, the last thing you want is a drawn-out claims process.

At Rosengard Law Group, we know that understanding the timeline for a semi-truck accident claim can ease some of your worries and help you plan ahead. 

While each case is unique, we’re here to give you an idea of what to expect, explain the steps involved, and share what you can do to help things move along. Let’s break down the process so you can feel more in control as you move toward a fair settlement.

If you need help with your claim for compensation after a semi-truck accident in New Jersey, contact us now by calling (856) 284-6446. We offer free consultations. 

What Does It Mean to “Settle?”

When we talk about “settling” a claim, we mean reaching an agreement on compensation without going to court. A settlement is usually reached between you (the injured party) and the insurance company representing the at-fault driver or trucking company. 

When both sides agree on an amount, you sign a settlement agreement, and the case is closed. In return for the payment, you agree not to pursue further legal action related to the accident.

Settling can often save time, money, and stress compared to a lengthy court battle. However, it’s essential to settle only when the amount offered fully covers your medical expenses, lost income, and any long-term impacts on your life. 

Once a settlement is reached, you generally can’t go back and ask for more. That’s why having a New Jersey truck accident lawyer by your side is crucial.

Factors Influencing the Settlement Timeline

Every semi-truck accident case is unique, and several factors can impact the timeline of your settlement:

• The severity of your injuries: As a rule of thumb, the more severe your injuries, the longer it may take to settle. Serious injuries can require extended medical treatment and recovery time, and you’ll want to make sure you understand the full scope of your medical needs before settling. Note: if you accept a settlement too early, you might not account for ongoing medical expenses.
• Liability and investigation: Establishing who’s at fault in a semi-truck accident can be time-consuming. Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, such as the driver, trucking company, or even vehicle manufacturers. Investigations take time, especially when reconstructing the accident or analyzing evidence from the truck’s “black box” data.
• Insurance company response: Insurance companies sometimes delay their responses, especially in cases involving high-value claims like semi-truck accidents. They may take time to review your claim, dispute certain damages, or even attempt to deny liability. Having an attorney handle communication with the insurance company can help keep things moving.
• Negotiation process: Settlements often involve back-and-forth negotiation. Your attorney will work to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company, but if they don’t initially offer a reasonable amount, the process can take longer as both sides work toward a fair resolution.
• Whether a lawsuit is needed: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, filing a lawsuit might be the best option. This doesn’t mean your case will go to trial, but it may extend the timeline as the legal process unfolds. In many cases, filing a lawsuit prompts the insurance company to make a better offer before reaching court.

The time it takes to settle a semi-truck accident case can vary widely, but on average, it can take anywhere from several months to a year or more. Many cases settle within six to twelve months, but it all depends on the specifics of your situation.

What You Can Do to Speed Up the Process

While some aspects of a semi-truck accident claim are beyond your control, there are a few steps you can take to help move things along. Here’s how you can contribute to a faster claims process:

1. Get medical attention right away: Medical documentation is crucial for your claim, as it shows the extent of your injuries and how they impact your life. The sooner you have detailed medical records, the quicker your attorney can start building your case.
2. Collect and preserve evidence: The sooner evidence is gathered, the better. Take photos of the accident scene, damage to your vehicle, and any visible injuries as soon as possible. If you’re able, gather contact information from witnesses who saw the accident. 
3. Be organized with your documents: Keep all accident-related documents in one place, including medical bills, repair estimates, and any communications with your insurance company. Having easy access to these documents saves time and prevents delays in responding to information requests from your attorney or insurance company.
4. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan: Stick closely to your doctor’s treatment recommendations. If you miss appointments or don’t follow prescribed treatment, the insurance company might argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as claimed. 
5. Communicate promptly with your attorney: Respond to any requests for information or documents from your attorney as soon as possible. Delays in communication can slow down the case, especially during negotiations or the discovery phase if a lawsuit is filed. 

Understand that achieving a fair settlement can take time, especially in semi-truck accident cases where the damages can be quite substantial. 

Need Help with Your Semi-Truck Accident Claim?

At Rosengard Law Group, we’re committed to handling the heavy lifting for you, so you can focus on your recovery while we work on getting you the compensation you deserve.

Our experienced team has handled numerous semi-truck accident cases throughout New Jersey. We know the tactics that insurance companies use to minimize payouts, and we’re committed to fighting for the compensation you truly deserve. 

When you work with us, you’re not just getting legal representation—you’re gaining a dedicated partner in your recovery. We’ll keep you informed at every step, answer all your questions, and work tirelessly to reach a fair resolution. Call (856) 284-6446 today to schedule a free consultation and get started.