Sending a demand letter is one of the most important steps in your personal injury claim, but it’s also when the waiting begins. It does more than request compensation; it sets your claim in motion and shows the insurer you’re serious.
But once it’s sent, many people wonder, “How long after a demand letter can I expect settlement?” The answer depends on several key factors. This guide explains the typical timeline, what to expect, and how a lawyer can help keep your case moving forward.
Key Parts of a Demand Letter in a Personal Injury Claim
Before you can estimate how long settlements take, it helps to understand what goes into a demand letter.
A demand letter is a detailed request sent to the at-fault party’s insurance company, asking for fair compensation for your injuries and losses. It lays out your side of the story, supports it with evidence, and follows the requirements set out in California Code of Civil Procedure § 999 for time-limited settlement demands.
A strong demand letter typically includes:
- Accident Details: The date, time, and location of the incident, plus any available claim number and names of those involved.
- Summary of Events: A brief, factual description of how the accident happened and why the insured is at fault, backed by reports, photos, or witness statements.
- Injury and Treatment Information: A list of all known injuries, with medical records, bills, and proof of treatments or surgeries.
- Proof of Losses: Documentation showing how the accident affected your life, including lost wages, ongoing pain, or emotional distress.
- Settlement Offer: A clear dollar amount within policy limits that covers your damages and includes a promise to release the insured once paid.
- Response Deadline: A set timeframe for the insurance company to respond to your demand.
- Attorney Contact Information: The insurer is directed to respond to your lawyer, who handles all communication and negotiations on your behalf.
What Happens Once a Demand Letter Reaches the Insurance Company
After your attorney submits the demand letter, the insurance company is given a specific period to review and respond, typically within 30 days if sent electronically or 33 days if sent by mail.
During this time, the insurance adjuster reviews your claim, including medical records, bills, photos, and other proof of damages. They may also request more information or clarification about your injuries or treatment before deciding how to proceed.
Here’s what typically happens next:
- The adjuster evaluates your demand and supporting evidence.
- The insurer determines liability and whether their insured is responsible.
- They then either accept, request an extension, or make a counteroffer.
Most insurers issue an initial response within the 30-day window, but reaching a final settlement can take longer depending on the complexity of your case, ongoing treatment, and the pace of negotiations.
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When the Insurance Company Fails to Respond to Your Demand Letter
Waiting past the response deadline can be frustrating. Under CCP § 999, insurers are required to act in good faith when handling time-limited demands. Failing to meet deadlines or delaying without a valid reason may later be considered evidence of bad faith.
If that happens, your attorney will follow up with the adjuster to confirm receipt of the demand, document any communication delays, and, if necessary, file a lawsuit to protect your right to compensation. Keeping records of these delays is important, as they may help support a bad faith claim if the insurer’s actions were unreasonable.
Even with legal timelines in place, some insurers still stall. Our experienced California personal injury attorneys can keep pressure on the insurance company, enforce deadlines, and make sure your rights are protected every step of the way.
The Typical Timeline for a Personal Injury Settlement
Every personal injury case moves through several key stages before you receive your settlement check. While every claim is different, here’s the general timeline most clients can expect:
Demand Letter Sent (30 Days to Respond)
Your attorney sends a detailed demand letter to the insurance company outlining your injuries and damages. By California law, the insurer has at least 30 days to respond.
Insurance Company Review
The adjuster reviews your claim, including medical records and evidence. They’ll either accept, reject, or counteroffer your demand.
Negotiations Begin
If the first offer isn’t fair, your attorney negotiates on your behalf. This stage can take a few weeks as both sides work toward an agreement.
Settlement Agreement & Paperwork
Once everyone agrees on an amount, the insurance company sends the settlement paperwork and Release of All Claims to finalize the deal.
Paying Medical Bills
After the settlement is finalized, your attorney coordinates with medical providers to ensure all outstanding bills are paid and the case is properly closed. This step usually takes 4–8 weeks.
Final Review & Payment
You’ll review a disbursement form showing exactly where each dollar goes. Once you approve it, our office issues your settlement check.
Every case is unique, and timelines can vary widely based on your injuries, the insurance company’s response, and the complexity of your claim.
While some cases resolve in as little as three to six months, others, especially those involving serious injuries or disputed liability, can take a year or more. Patience often leads to a stronger, more complete recovery.
Factors That Impact How Long Settlements Take After a Demand Letter
If you’re wondering how long settlements take, the answer depends on several moving parts. Each case is different, and the timeline often depends on your recovery, the insurer’s actions, and how complex the claim is.
- Key factors that impact your settlement timeline include:
- Severity of Injuries: Serious or ongoing injuries extend the timeline.
- Medical Records: Delayed records can hold up the review process.
- Liability Disputes: Unclear fault requires more investigation.
- Insurance Response: Some insurers delay or ask for more info.
- Multiple Parties: More drivers or insurers mean more coordination.
- Negotiations: Back-and-forth offers take extra time.
Things You Can Do to Keep Your Case on Track
You can’t control every part of the settlement process, but you can help prevent delays. Staying organized and responsive makes it easier for your attorney to keep your case moving.
- Tips to Stay on Track:
- Follow your treatment plan. Missed appointments can hurt your claim.
- Keep your records. Save bills, receipts, and proof of lost income.
- Stay in touch. Respond promptly to your attorney’s requests.
- Avoid social media posts. Insurers may use them against you.
- Be patient. A careful process often leads to a better result.
Small steps like these can make a big difference in how smoothly your case moves toward settlement.
How Our Attorneys Help Move Your Case Forward
At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, we know how frustrating it can be to wait for a settlement, especially when you’re focused on healing and getting your life back.
Insurance companies often drag their feet, but having our experienced team on your side keeps the process moving and ensures you’re treated fairly.
Here’s how our personal injury attorneys help speed things up:
- Building a strong foundation: We craft a detailed, persuasive demand letter backed by solid medical and financial evidence.
- Handling the insurance company: We take care of all communication, deadlines, and follow-ups so you don’t have to.
- Fighting for fair value: If an insurer makes a lowball offer, we push back until you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Taking action when needed: If negotiations stall, we’re fully prepared to file suit and keep the pressure on.
- Keeping you informed: We guide you through each step, making sure you always know where your case stands.
Our attorneys have helped countless Californians resolve their cases efficiently while still maximizing results. Your consultation is free, and you don’t pay anything unless we win for you.
Protect Your Rights and Secure the Settlement You Deserve!
When the insurance company delays, we deliver results. Backed by over 60 years of combined experience and millions recovered for injured Californians, El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers knows how to cut through the delays, fight back against lowball offers, and win the compensation you deserve.
Schedule your free consultation now and let us fight for every dollar you deserve. You pay nothing unless we win.
SHERIF EDMOND EL DABE
Founder / Partner / Attorney
Sherif Edmond El Dabe, founding partner of El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers in Los Angeles and Huntington Beach, is a seasoned trial attorney focused on catastrophic injury, wrongful death, and insurance bad faith cases. He has recovered over $224 million for clients and spoken at leading legal conferences, including CAALA and TBI Med Legal.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is not intended as legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. You should consult with an experienced attorney for advice on your specific situation.