An insurance claim is not a lawsuit
An injury matter often begins as a claim with an insurance company. No court is involved at that stage. A lawsuit is a separate step, filed with a court, that starts a formal case with its own rules and schedule.
Some claims are resolved without a lawsuit. Others require one, for example when the insurer disputes fault or the value of the injuries. Whether and when to file is a decision made with you, based on your case.
Building the case
The first stage is gathering what shows what happened and what it cost: the police report, photos, witness information, medical records and bills, and proof of lost income. This often continues for as long as treatment continues, since the full picture of an injury takes time to form.
Negotiation
Once the picture is reasonably clear, a demand is usually presented to the insurer, followed by offers and counteroffers. Ask how a proposed settlement would be reviewed with you and which decisions would need your approval.
A proposed settlement agreement should explain what is being paid and what claims or rights would be resolved. Review its terms with the attorney before making a decision. The effect of an agreement depends on its wording and the particular circumstances.
If a lawsuit is filed
After filing, both sides exchange documents and take sworn statements called depositions. Experts may be involved. Settlement talks can continue during this period, and some cases resolve before trial.
A lawsuit may proceed to trial if the dispute remains unresolved, but other court decisions may affect its course. Ask the attorney to explain the possible paths and the choices that arise at each stage.
Timing and outcomes
How long a case takes depends on the injuries, the insurer, the court's schedule if a lawsuit is filed, and many other things. The office cannot promise a settlement, an amount, or a date. What it can do is explain where your case stands at each step.
Talk with the office
The consultation is free, and there is no attorney fee unless we recover compensation. Call (907) 569-6633, Monday through Friday, 9 to 5 Alaska time, or send a short note through the site.