A: In most cases the amount of time it takes from the first letter of demand to final settlement can be several weeks to a few months or sometimes longer. In smaller, clear-cut liability cases where the injuries are fairly minimal, the process can be achieved in a month or two usually. Every case is different, however, and your attorney will advise you about his opinion on the amount of time it will probably take to settle your case. There are many factors which affect the response time and the adjuster's final offer. They include:

a. How many files the insurance adjuster is handling.

b. How well documented the claim has been during the preparation period.

c. Whether or not liability is clear on the part of the insurance company's client.

d. Whether or not there is any comparative negligence on your part.

e. Whether or not there are any other parties that may be responsible for your injuries.

f. The internal claims process of the particular insurance company including the number of supervisors required to approve the adjuster's settlement offer.

g. How reasonable your attorney's demand figure is.

h. The time of year (some months are better for settlement than others).

i. The state of the economy as it relates to the insurance claims process.

j. Other possible factors.