In New Mexico, drivers whose negligent actions cause an accident should take responsibility for the resulting damages sustained by victims. If you are a victim of a negligent driver, you can file an insurance claim or sue the at-fault driver. Although you may get compensation for your medical bills and the wages you lost because of your injuries when you can get a claim settlement depends on your case. But to avoid further delays in your claim, it’s important to consider hiring one of the best Rio Rancho car accident lawyers to assist you.
New Mexico Insurance Claim
New Mexico law requires insurance providers to decide on an accident claim within 60 days. Sometimes, cases can get resolved quickly, particularly if the negligent driver doesn’t dispute the accident claim and only a small amount of damages is required by the victim.
To file a claim, you must report the crash to the insurance company of the at-fault driver first. Once the insurer is notified of the accident, it will assign an adjuster to handle and investigate your claim. The adjuster may get in touch with you and the negligent driver to get statements. Speak with your attorney first before you speak with the adjuster to avoid making mistakes that can ruin your claim.
Once the adjuster completes their investigation, they will tell you if you have a successful case and make a settlement offer. If the insurer denies your claim, you can appeal the decision or file a lawsuit. But if you get a settlement offer from the insurance company you need to review it with your attorney before you accept or refuse it. Your attorney can negotiate for a fair settlement if they find the offer insufficient for your needs.
What Could Prolong the Insurance Claim Process?
Although the insurer only has sixty days to resolve your claim under the law, some factors can extend the timeline of your case. If you sustained serious injuries, you may require more extensive and longer medical care, increasing your settlement amount. Also, you may not be able to return to work for a while and need to bright your car to a repair shop for some serious repairs. Such factors increase the amount of settlement you can demand from the insurer. If you seek a big settlement, the insurer may take a longer time to investigate and resolve your claim.
Moreover, another factor that can prolong your claim’s timeline is the issue of liability. The insurance provider may settle your claim quickly if there is clear evidence that proves the negligent driver caused the crash or if this driver does not dispute your claim. Otherwise, it can take the insurer to settle your claim.
