State Farm is among the largest insurers for car insurance providers in the United States. Therefore, you may deal with State Farm if you are involved in a car accident in Missouri.
The time it takes State Farm to settle claims in Missouri depends on numerous factors. Each claim is unique, so your claim could settle faster than other claims. On the other hand, factors could delay the settlement of your claim.
What Is the Process to Settle Claims With State Farm in Missouri?
While each claim involves different circumstances, the basic steps in the process for a State Farm accident claim include:
Filing a Claim
After a car accident, notify State Farm of your intent to file a claim as soon as possible. Accident victims can file claims online through State Farm’s website. You can also contact the claims office for State Farm by telephone to file a claim or contact the insurance agent.
The information you need to file a claim should be on the paperwork the police officer gave you at the accident scene. When you file the claim, only state facts. Do not make assumptions about fault without legal advice. Doing so can hurt your chances of receiving a fair settlement for your claim.
Investigating the Claim
Insurance companies generally assign claims adjusters to investigate car accident claims. The adjuster’s job is to determine if the insurance company is liable for your claim. In other words, did the insured cause the car accident?
The insurance adjuster obtains and reviews copies of police reports, witness statements, damage reports, and other evidence. The adjuster may ask you to provide information. They may also ask you to give a recorded statement or answer written questions.
You may want to seek legal advice before providing statements or answering questions on a recorded line. The statements you make could be used against you. If State Farm determines you are at fault for causing the car accident, it will deny your claim.
Denial or Settlement Offer
State Farm should provide a written explanation if it denies your accident claim. You should talk with a car accident attorney if you receive a denial of claim. A lawyer may be able to work with State Farm to resolve the dispute or proceed with a personal injury lawsuit.
If State Farm accepts your claim, it may offer a settlement. The settlement is final. If you accept the settlement offer, you waive your right to file a lawsuit or pursue claims against all parties involved in the accident. Therefore, if you have not completed medical treatment or are unsure about the value of your damages, talk with a lawyer before signing any documents.
Factors That Impact How Long It Takes State Farm to Settle Claims in Missouri
It could take several months or more than a year to settle a claim with State Farm. Factors involved in your case influence the timeline for resolving the claim. Factors that could impact how long it takes to settle your claim with State Farm include, but are not limited to:
Your Injuries and Medical Treatment
Settling a claim with State Farm before you complete medical treatment could mean receiving much less than your claim is worth. Your injuries could result in permanent impairments and future damages. The total of your damages cannot be determined until you reach maximum medical improvement.
However, you do not want to allow State Farm to draw out the claim past the statute of limitations to file a lawsuit. If you sustain severe injuries, talk with a lawyer to determine the deadlines for filing claims and lawsuits.
The Complexity of the Claim
Some car accident claims are more complex, which means it could take longer to settle the claim. Examples include car accident cases involving multiple vehicles, commercial trucks, government vehicles, and wrongful deaths, which often take longer to resolve. For instance, a multi-car accident means multiple insurance companies fighting to avoid liability for claims.
Disputes Regarding Fault and/or Damages
You must prove that the other driver caused the car crash to recover compensation for your economic and non-economic damages from State Farm. If State Farm disputes whether their driver caused the crash, you may need additional evidence proving your claim.
Damages include medical bills, permanent impairments, lost wages, emotional distress, out-of-pocket expenses, and other losses. State Farm may dispute the value of damages. Again, you would need additional evidence proving how much your damages are worth.
How Can I Speed Up My Claim With State Farm?
Many factors that impact your claim might be out of your control. There are some things you can do to keep your claim moving as quickly as possible:
- Notify State Farm of your claim as soon as possible after the accident
- Seek immediate medical treatment for your injuries
- Provide requested information promptly, but you may want to consult an attorney before signing a medical release or providing medical records
- Keep detailed records of financial losses and expenses
If you have any questions, ask an attorney. The insurance adjuster works for State Farm. The information you receive may not be in your best interest.
Get Help With Car Accident Claims From a Missouri Car Accident Lawyer
Insurance companies do not always treat claimants fairly. Our legal team at Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers evens the playing field. Call our office to schedule a free consultation with our Missouri personal injury lawyers. We help accident victims seek the justice they deserve.
Contact our St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers from Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in St.Louis, MO, today. We have two convenient locations in Missouri, including St. Louis and Richmond Heights.
We proudly serve St. Louis County and its surrounding areas.
Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Louis Office
10 S Broadway #560
St. Louis, MO 63102
(314) 932 – 1066
Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Richmond Heights Office
1034 S Brentwood Blvd Penthouse 1-C
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
(314) 932 – 1066
