Car accident claims often face delays. Learn why insurers stall, how to speed up the process, and why speaking with an attorney is always the best move.
Filing a car accident insurance claim should be a straightforward process, but many claimants experience frustrating delays. Insurance companies may take longer than expected to process claims due to various reasons, from missing documentation to deliberate stalling tactics. Understanding these common delays and learning how to navigate them effectively can help you get your settlement faster.
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Why Do Car Accident Insurance Claims Get Delayed?
Insurance companies often cite multiple reasons for delaying claims. Some are legitimate, while others are strategies to minimize payouts. Common causes of delays include:
1. Incomplete or Missing Documentation
If essential documents like police reports, medical records, or repair estimates are missing, the insurer may pause processing until they are provided. Missing paperwork is one of the leading reasons claims take longer than expected.
2. Disputes Over Liability
If fault is unclear, the insurance company may take longer to investigate before approving a payout. Insurers will look at police reports, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage to determine who was responsible for the accident.
3. High Claim Volume
Insurers may be overwhelmed with claims after major weather events or large-scale accidents, causing processing delays. In these cases, even straightforward claims might take longer to resolve due to the high demand on adjusters.
4. Delays in Medical Treatment
Insurers may wait for final bills if medical treatment is ongoing before calculating settlement amounts. Some companies use this as an excuse to postpone payments, arguing that they must assess the full extent of the injuries.
5. Bad Faith Tactics
Some insurers deliberately delay claims to pressure policyholders into accepting lower settlements or giving up altogether. They might request unnecessary documents, repeatedly ask for the same information, or avoid returning calls and emails.
How Long Does an Insurance Company Have to Settle a Claim in Missouri?
Under the Unfair Claims Settlement Practices Act, Missouri law requires insurers to acknowledge a claim within 10 working days and provide necessary claim forms and assistance. Once they receive all completed claim forms, they have 15 working days to notify the claimant of acceptance or denial. However, the final settlement amount may take longer due to ongoing investigations. If an insurer fails to meet these deadlines without a valid justification, they may be engaging in unfair claims settlement practices under Missouri law. If this happens, you can file a complaint or take legal action.
You Should ALWAYS Speak With an Attorney After a Car Accident
No matter the severity of your accident, it is critical to speak with a car accident attorney immediately. An experienced lawyer ensures your rights are protected and you receive the full compensation you deserve. Insurance companies prioritize their profits and may attempt to minimize your settlement—having legal representation prevents them from taking advantage of you.
Missouri auto accident settlements vary by case. Some claims settle lower, while others exceed $100,000 or even millions, depending on damages, liability, and overall impact. A skilled insurance attorney will fight for the maximum compensation available in your case.
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Steps to Speed Up Your Car Accident Insurance Claim
If you want to avoid unnecessary delays and receive your settlement as quickly as possible, follow these proactive steps:
1. Gather and Submit All Required Documents Promptly
Ensure you provide your insurer with all necessary paperwork, including:
- The police report
- Photos of vehicle damage
- Medical records and bills
- Witness statements
- Proof of lost wages (if applicable)
2. Let Your Attorney Handle Communication With the Insurance Company
Insurance adjusters may attempt to get you to say things that could be used to minimize your claim. Instead of handling discussions yourself, direct all communication to your attorney, who can ensure that your rights are protected and that you do not unintentionally harm your case.
3. Follow Up on Medical Treatment Quickly
If you were injured, seek medical attention immediately and complete your treatment as soon as possible. Insurers often delay claims if they are waiting for final medical bills.
4. Avoid Giving Recorded Statements Without Legal Advice
Insurance adjusters may ask for recorded statements to find inconsistencies in your claim. Always consult a lawyer before providing statements that could be used against you.
5. Get a Repair Estimate From a Trusted Mechanic
Having a repair estimate from a reputable body shop can speed up claim approval and ensure the insurer does not undervalue your vehicle damage.
6. Let Your Attorney Handle Claim Escalation
If your claim is being delayed unfairly, your attorney can take the necessary steps to hold the insurance company accountable. This may include:
- Filing a formal complaint with the Missouri Department of Insurance, which investigates unfair claims settlement practices.
- Taking legal action against the insurer for bad faith practices if they are unlawfully delaying or denying your claim.
Signs of Bad Faith Insurance Practices
If an insurance company delays your claim without justification, they may be acting in bad faith. Watch out for these red flags:
- Repeated requests for unnecessary documents
- Failure to provide a reason for claim delays
- Unjustified claim denials
- Lowball settlement offers that don’t cover your losses
If you suspect bad faith tactics, consulting an attorney can help you hold the insurer accountable.
Common Questions About Car Accident Insurance Delays
How long do most car accident claims take to settle?
Most car accident insurance claims are resolved within 30 to 90 days. However, if liability is disputed, medical treatment is ongoing, or the insurance company is acting in bad faith, it can take much longer.
Can I sue my insurance company for delaying my claim?
Yes. If an insurer unreasonably delays processing your claim, you may have grounds for a bad faith insurance claim. Consulting an attorney can help determine if legal action is necessary.
What should I do if my insurance company is not responding?
- Have your attorney follow up in writing (email or certified letter) on your behalf
- Allow your attorney to communicate with a supervisor or claims manager
- Work with your attorney to file a formal complaint with the Missouri Department of Insurance
- Consult an experienced car accident attorney to handle the claim escalation and legal proceedings
Get the Maximum Compensation You Deserve
Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to minimize your payout—you need an experienced attorney to fight for you. At The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C., we ensure claimants receive the full compensation they deserve. Missouri car accident settlements vary significantly, with some exceeding $100,000 or even millions. The amount you recover depends on the severity of injuries, liability, and impact on your life.
Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you. Call (314) 361-4242 now for a FREE consultation, and let us fight for your rights and maximum compensation.
Understanding how insurers operate can help you avoid unnecessary delays and secure your settlement faster. If your claim is being delayed or undervalued, take action now to protect your rights and get the compensation you need.
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Don’t talk to an insurance claims adjuster before speaking with The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. We can help you avoid making statements that may affect the outcome of your case. The consultation is free; you don’t pay unless we get you money!