How Long Does an Arkansas Car Accident Claim Take to Settle?
A well-managed injury claim typically takes 6 to 18 months to settle because negotiations cannot begin until you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). Settling earlier risks undercompensating you for future medical needs and permanent disabilities.
The settlement timeline follows distinct medical and legal milestones:
Treatment to MMI (Months 1–6+): You must complete treatment until doctors certify your condition is fully resolved or permanently stable.
Records Assembly & Demand (Months 6–8): Complete medical histories, diagnostic imaging, and wage loss verifications are compiled into an itemized demand.
Insurance Negotiation (Months 8–10): Adjusters take 30 to 60 days to evaluate and exchange offers.
Litigation Phase (Months 10–18+): If the insurer disputes liability or provides an inadequate offer, a formal lawsuit is filed in circuit court, triggering formal discovery and deposition schedules.
