Unfortunately, the time to settle a claim can vary significantly from case to case. Some of this will depend on whether there are multiple parties responsible for the death, how willing the parties are to accept liability, and how negotiations proceed with insurance companies.
Remember, the first steps involve filing the initial claim. Gathering all the pertinent evidence of liability and assessing that evidence takes time.
Once we establish this, we file a claim with the insurance company.
They have some options:
Deny the claim outright - The insurance company may claim someone else was liable, and therefore they have no reason to approve the claim.
Accept liability and make a counteroffer - Should this occur, your lawyer will review the counteroffer and advise you of its pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.
Should the counteroffer be denied, the negotiation between your attorney and the insurer’s attorney will likely take some time. Remember, the insurer and your attorney will review each offer and counteroffer. At any time, you are free to accept an offer if it is in your best interest.