If State Farm insures you, you probably know you can recover compensation after an accident by filing a claim. But do you know how long it will take for State Farm to settle your case?
After an accident in which you get injured and have to struggle with unpaid medical bills, loss of income, and other financial burdens, filing a claim for compensation with State Farm might seem like a beam of hope in your gloomy post-accident journey. However, it is rather rare for State Farm – or any other insurer, for that matter – to give you the money you need immediately after you file a claim. That’s why so many clients ask us, “How long does State Farm take to settle cases?”
If you’re struggling to recover a settlement from State Farm after being injured in an auto accident, don’t worry: The Baumgartner Law Firm is here to help. This article will explore State Farm’s payout timeline, including factors influencing it, tips for getting a faster payout, and how an experienced personal injury lawyer in Houston can help with your claim.
Are you struggling to overcome financial losses like medical debt and lost wages after a serious accident? If you didn’t cause the accident, you shouldn’t be footing the bill for your damages. Call the Baumgartner Law Firm at (281) 587-1111 to schedule a free case evaluation.
The Timeline of an Injury Claim with State Farm
Any claims process begins with filing a claim. If you have been injured in an accident, there are several ways to file a claim with State Farm. One of the ways involves using the company’s claims center, which allows you to file and track claims. When you file an injury claim, State Farm will assign an adjuster to evaluate your claim, examine the evidence, and determine the appropriate settlement offer.
“But how long does State Farm take to settle cases?” you might wonder. The timeline of an injury claim depends on multiple factors, which we will review in detail in the section below. Generally, however, the claims process with State Farm can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. In rare cases, it could take years before State Farm offers a settlement.
Some steps of the claims process, including the receipt of notice of claim, are regulated by state law. Under Texas law, insurance companies – including State Farm – are legally required to acknowledge receipt of a claim within 15 days of receiving notice of a claim (Texas Insurance Code § 542.055). The insurer must also begin the investigation and request additional information from the claimant, if necessary, within 15 days.
If State Farm does not process your claim within a reasonable amount of time, deliberately delays the claims process, or denies your claim, you might want to speak with a lawyer. A Houston, Texas, personal injury lawyer at Baumgartner Law Firm can help you handle all aspects of your injury claim to ensure a fair and prompt resolution of your case. A lawyer can also assist you if State Farm offered you a settlement, but you do not think the offer is fair.
Read More: State Farm Claims and Car Accident Settlements
Factors That Influence the State Farm Settlement Timeline
When you file a claim with State Farm in the aftermath of an accident, understanding the timeframe for a settlement can give you a measure of control during a time full of uncertainties. While each case is unique and timelines can vary greatly, several key factors can influence how long it takes to settle a claim with State Farm:
- The nature and severity of injuries. Severe injuries typically require longer treatment periods and might lead to more complications during discussions on compensation amounts.
- Duration of recovery. If your recovery period is lengthy, the settlement might also take longer. State Farm will monitor your progress and may delay negotiations until you have reached what’s known as “maximum medical improvement” (MMI).
- How much evidence is available? The more evidence you can gather, the more likely you are to speed up State Farm’s decision-making process.
- The complexity of the case. Cases that involve complex legal issues or disputed facts will typically take longer to settle.
- Your arguments during the negotiation process. Well-prepared arguments can lead to quicker settlements, while a lack of preparedness can delay proceedings.
- Whether or not you have a lawyer. A skilled lawyer can prompt quicker action from State Farm by ensuring that all necessary documents and evidence are collected and presented properly.
Read More: Handling a State Farm Car Accident Claim
Being aware of these factors for injured victims navigating the settlement process can help set realistic expectations and prepare effectively for the stages ahead. However, taking proactive steps to move your case toward a timely and fair resolution is equally important.
- Note: Understanding the timeline of an injury claim with State Farm is also crucial because there is a limited amount of time – known as the statute of limitations – to bring lawsuits against negligent parties. In Texas, the statute of limitations in injury cases is two years from the date of injury (Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003).
Tips for a Faster Insurance Claims Process with State Farm in Houston, TX
Now that you know how long State Farm can take to settle your car accident claim and understand the factors that influence the timeline of your case, you might be thinking, “Well, there’s nothing I can do to expedite the claims process, so I will just wait and see what happens.” This mentality can be harmful, especially if you desperately need financial relief. Fortunately, there are certain things you can do to pave the way for a smoother and quicker claims process with State Farm:
- Keep detailed medical records. Complete records can speed up the review process, providing clear evidence of your injuries and the care you require.
- Gather all evidence and reports related to the accident. The availability of evidence can influence the timeline of your case as well. The evidence you present will help State Farm fully understand your case’s circumstances.
- File a compensation claim as soon as possible. Early filing can lead to quicker assessments and resolutions, while waiting too long can jeopardize your claim.
- Respond to State Farm correspondence promptly. Throughout the claims process, State Farm might reach out with requests for additional information.
- Hire a personal injury lawyer. A personal injury lawyer’s expertise can ensure that your claim is presented correctly and that you are fairly represented throughout the process.
Whether you are dealing with State Farm or any other insurance company, these steps can expedite the claims process. However, since each case is unique, you might want to discuss your best course of action with a lawyer.
Baumgartner Law Firm: Trusted Personal Injury & Car Accident Attorneys in Houston, TX
At Baumgartner Law Firm, we understand that successfully negotiating a settlement with State Farm requires dedication, resources, and knowledge. In the last 35 years, our nationally recognized personal injury lawyer in Houston has helped countless injury victims and their families secure the justice and compensation they deserve.
If you want to discuss the timeline of your State Farm settlement or need help expediting the claims process, Baumgartner Law Firm is happy to answer your questions. Schedule a free consultation online or call our law office at (281) 587-1111 to speak with a compassionate attorney today.
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy, Houston, TX, 77069
(281) 587-1111
Related Resources:
How Long Does a Car Accident Lawsuit Take to Settle in Houston?
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Another State
The Importance of Medical Records and Documentation in Car Accident Injury Cases