If you’ve recently settled your personal injury case, first of all, congratulations. Getting to that point can be a long and stressful journey, especially if you’re recovering from injuries, missing work, or just trying to get back to normal. Understandably, the next question on your mind is: how long until you get your check?
The short answer? It typically takes anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months after a settlement is reached. But the full picture is a little more complex, and several steps need to happen before that money lands in your hands.
The Settlement Agreement Comes First
Once a settlement has been reached—whether it’s for a car accident, slip and fall, or another type of personal injury—the first step is getting the settlement agreement in writing. This legal document outlines the terms everyone agreed to, including how much the insurance company will pay and when.
Your New Bedford personal injury lawyer will go over everything with you to make sure the agreement is fair and accurate before you sign it. Once both parties sign, the insurance company can start processing the payment.
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Insurance Companies Don’t Write Checks Overnight
Even though you may feel like the hard part is over, insurance companies still need a little time to process the settlement. Most insurance companies will issue payment within two to four weeks of receiving the signed agreement. That may not sound too bad, but if you’re already months into recovery, even a few more weeks can feel like forever.
A good personal injury attorney in New Bedford will stay on top of the insurance company to keep things moving. If you’re working with a lawyer who knows how these companies operate, they’ll push for timely action and keep you updated every step of the way.
Why Does It Take So Long?
There are a few reasons your check might take longer than expected:
- Paperwork delays: Sometimes it’s as simple as missing signatures or small clerical issues.
- Processing timelines: Insurance companies have internal procedures and review processes that can slow things down.
- Liens or outstanding bills: If you owe money to doctors, hospitals, or health insurance providers, those liens may need to be resolved before you can receive your portion of the money.
- Legal review: In some cases, the court might need to review or approve the settlement—this is especially common if minors are involved in the case.
Liens: What They Are and Why They Matter
A big reason for delays? Medical liens. These are claims by hospitals, doctors, or health insurance companies asking to be paid out of your settlement. For example, if you were treated at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford and couldn’t pay right away, they might file a lien against your settlement.
Your New Bedford car accident attorney will handle negotiating these liens for you. A skilled lawyer can often get them reduced, which means more money in your pocket once everything is settled. But negotiating takes time, and everything has to be finalized before checks go out.
The Check Doesn’t Go Directly to You
Once the insurance company cuts the check, it doesn’t usually go straight into your mailbox. Instead, it goes to your attorney’s office. Your car accident lawyer in New Bedford will deposit the check into a special trust account and begin disbursing the funds.
First, they’ll pay off any outstanding medical bills or liens. Then, your attorney will take their agreed-upon fee (usually a percentage of the settlement, which you’ve already discussed and signed off on). Whatever’s left is your final payout, and that’s when you’ll finally receive your personal check.
What Can You Do To Speed Things Up?
While you can’t force the insurance company to move faster, there are a few things you and your attorney can do to avoid unnecessary delays:
- Sign paperwork quickly: Don’t let things sit in your inbox.
- Be available: Your lawyer might need to reach you for approvals or to sign off on lien resolutions.
- Hire an experienced attorney: Working with someone who’s been through this process hundreds of times—like a seasoned personal injury attorney in New Bedford—makes a big difference.
If you haven’t hired an attorney yet and you’re still dealing with the aftermath of an accident, don’t wait too long. The right New Bedford personal injury lawyer can take the stress off your shoulders and help you avoid costly mistakes.
What If There’s a Problem?
Sometimes, even when everything seems to be going smoothly, problems pop up. A missed document, a slow-moving lienholder, or a delay at the insurance company can all create setbacks. If this happens, don’t panic—but do stay in touch with your lawyer. A good New Bedford car accident attorney won’t just sit back and wait; they’ll be on the phone pushing to get your case across the finish line.
If you feel like you’re being left in the dark, ask your attorney for updates. You have a right to know where your money is and what’s causing the delay.
The Emotional Side of Waiting
Waiting for a settlement check isn’t just a financial issue—it’s an emotional one, too. You’ve been through enough already. A serious injury can flip your entire life upside down. Medical bills pile up, you might be out of work, and everyday stress starts to feel overwhelming.
That’s why having someone in your corner matters. A dedicated car accident lawyer in New Bedford understands what you’re going through. They’ll do more than just handle the legal side—they’ll keep you informed, reduce your stress, and make sure you’re treated fairly from start to finish.
So, When Will You Get Your Check?
In most cases, you can expect your settlement check within four to eight weeks after the agreement is signed. But if there are liens, court approvals, or insurance delays, it could take longer.
The best thing you can do? Stay in communication with your attorney, respond quickly to any requests, and be patient. It’s hard to wait—but you’re almost at the finish line.
If you’re still looking for help or have questions about your case, talk to a personal injury attorney in New Bedford who knows the local courts, insurance companies, and medical providers. They’ll help you get what you’re owed—and they’ll make sure you don’t have to go through it alone.
