Georgia Car Accident Settlement Process and Timeline (2025)

If you are ever involved in a car accident in Georgia, you should be aware that the settlement process may not be as straightforward as you might think, even if it is obvious that you were not at fault. A car accident settlement involves many moving parts, some of which you might not even be aware of. It can be confusing to deal with on your own. A Newnan car accident lawyer can help you better understand the Georgia car accident settlement process and timeline.

The Aftermath of a Georgia Car Accident

First and foremost, there is no definitive way to confirm how long it will take you to finalize your case. Every car accident case is different, with each case having its specifics and circumstances that can affect every aspect of each case. Just because a case similar to yours resulted in a quick and hefty settlement, that doesn’t guarantee that yours will, too. Finalizing your case may take time.

In Georgia, if you are pursuing legal action for a car accident, you must keep in mind the state’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including car accident claims. For most cases, the state will give you two years from the date of your accident to develop your case, gather the evidence you need, contact a car accident lawyer, and file your claim for compensatory damages.

If you cannot file your claim before two years have passed, there is a good possibility that your case will be thrown out. Your chance to claim compensation for your accident will pass without any legal action being taken. It may take you more time than you think to build a strong case, so you should consider starting as soon as possible. If you are worried you don’t have a strong case, bring what you have to an accident lawyer for an evaluation.

How Does the Georgia Car Accident Settlement Process Work?

The car accident settlement in Georgia begins when your lawyer helps you draft a demand letter. This letter will explain the facts of your case as you see it, provide evidence of the other driver’s negligent actions and liability, and demand compensation for what you have been through. Even if you are found to be partially at fault, you can still demand compensation under the state’s comparative negligence laws.

After you send the letter, you will await a response from the insurance company. They will either accept your terms and offer you a settlement or refuse your terms and deny your claim. If the insurance company refuses to settle or offers you a settlement amount that you feel is insulting or unreasonable, you may want to consider filing a claim in civil court. The threat of a trial may be motivating enough to get the insurance company to offer a fair settlement.

Filing a complaint in Georgia is not as straightforward as it sounds either. It’s a process that must be done correctly, or you risk getting denied on a technicality. Your lawyer can help you complete all paperwork correctly and meet the necessary deadlines. An official legal complaint explains your case, lists all the losses you’ve incurred, describes the other party’s liability, and establishes how much you are asking for in compensation.

Once your lawyer has filed the complaint, it will be sent to the other party, who will have a limited time to respond. If they issue a counter-complaint, they can explain their side of the story and might even make a counterclaim that lists you as liable. The discovery phase then starts, where both sides present their respective evidence.

When each side knows what evidence the other has, settlement negotiations can begin. If both sides cannot reach a settlement agreement, the case will go to trial and be decided by a judge.

FAQs

Q: How Long Does It Take to Settle a Car Accident Case in Georgia?

A: There is no telling how long a car accident case may take to settle in Georgia. Every case is different, with each case having its own deciding factors that influence the timetable for settlement negotiations. A lawyer may be able to give a general estimate for the duration of a specific case based on the circumstances.

Q: How Long Does an Insurance Company Have to Settle a Claim in Georgia?

A: In Georgia, insurance companies have approximately 40 days to settle a car accident claim after it has been filed. They have 15 days to acknowledge the claim and send you the proper paperwork, 15 days to decide whether to approve or deny the claim, and 10 days to provide payment if the claim is approved.

Q: How Long Does It Take to Receive Money From a Car Accident Settlement?

A: Depending on the complexities of your case and the agreement that you reach with the other party, you can typically count on receiving your car accident settlement payment within one to two months after the insurance company approves your claim. The exact timetable can vary from case to case, and there may be factors that delay payment.

Q: What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident in Georgia?

A: There is no telling what the average settlement for a car accident is in Georgia. Every situation is different, with every case having its own specific factors that can heavily influence the amount you may receive in a settlement. These factors include the severity of your injuries and damages, the evidence that proves negligence, and the stance that the insurance companies take.

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer From Trammell & White

If you are about to endure a lengthy car accident settlement process, you should consider hiring an experienced car accident lawyer to represent you. A lawyer can keep you updated on filing deadlines, give you sound advice, and communicate with insurance companies on your behalf.

At Trammell & White, we can help you build a solid case, gather evidence that supports you, and keep your interests protected throughout this ordeal. Contact us to speak with a valued team member and schedule a consultation.