After months of negotiations, you’ve finally settled your personal injury case. Now comes the question every Indianapolis injury victim asks: “How long until I actually get paid?” The wait for a personal injury settlement check can feel endless, especially when medical bills are piling up. Understanding the timeline and process can help set realistic expectations during this final stage of your case.
The Typical Timeline After Settlement
Once both parties agree on a settlement amount, the process of getting money into your hands begins. Most injury victims in Indianapolis receive their settlement funds within four to six weeks after signing all required paperwork. However, this timeline can vary based on several factors specific to your case.
The clock starts when you sign a release form. This document confirms that you accept the settlement amount and give up your right to pursue further legal action related to your injury. Insurance companies typically disburse payment within 30 days of receipt of this signed release.
Steps Between Settlement and Payment
Several things must happen before you receive your check. Understanding each step helps explain why the process takes time.
Here’s what occurs after you reach a settlement agreement:
- Paperwork review: Both sides must review and sign the settlement agreement and release forms. Any errors or disputes over language can cause delays.
- Insurance company processing: The insurer reviews the signed documents, gets internal approvals, and issues the check. Large settlements may require additional verification.
- Check delivery to your attorney: The settlement check goes to your lawyer’s office, not directly to you. This usually takes one to three weeks.
- Deposit and clearing: Your attorney deposits the check into a trust account. The funds must clear the bank, which can take up to seven business days for large amounts.
- Lien resolution and disbursement: Outstanding medical bills, liens, and legal fees are paid from the settlement before you receive your portion.
Each of these steps takes time, and delays at any point can extend the overall timeline.
What Can Slow Down Your Payment
Some cases take longer than others to reach final disbursement. Medical liens often cause the biggest delays. If Medicare, Medicaid, or a health insurance company paid for your treatment, they may have a right to subrogation. This means they must be repaid from your settlement before you get your share.
Your attorney may be able to negotiate these liens down, putting more money in your pocket. However, these negotiations take time. Rushing the process could mean paying more than necessary to healthcare providers and insurers.
Other factors that may delay payment include disputes over the release language, missing signatures, or backlogs at the insurer. Structured settlements, in which payments are made in installments rather than as a lump sum, also have different timelines.
Why the Check Goes to Your Attorney
Many clients wonder why the insurance company doesn’t send the check directly to them. There are good reasons for this practice. Your attorney ensures that all obligations are paid properly before disbursing funds. This protects you from future collection efforts by medical providers or lien holders.
Before releasing your portion, your lawyer will prepare a detailed settlement statement. This document shows exactly where every dollar goes, including payments to healthcare providers, case expenses, and attorney fees. You’ll have a chance to review this breakdown before funds are released.
Indiana’s Statute of Limitations
While waiting for a settlement check is frustrating, it’s worth remembering that reaching this point is an achievement. Under Indiana law, personal injury victims have just two years from the date of their accident to file a lawsuit.
Claims against Indiana government entities have even shorter deadlines. Victims must provide written notice within 180 to 270 days, depending on which government body is involved.
What You Can Do to Speed Things Up
While much of the process is out of your control, you can take steps to avoid unnecessary delays. Respond promptly to any request from your attorney for signatures or information. Notify your lawyer of all medical providers who treated you so that liens can be identified early.
Ask your attorney for regular updates on the status of your settlement. A good lawyer will keep you informed about where things stand and alert you to any issues that arise. If weeks pass without communication, don’t hesitate to reach out and ask questions.
Contact Wilson Kehoe Winingham Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Waiting for a personal injury settlement check can test your patience, especially after everything you’ve been through. While most Indianapolis injury victims receive their funds within a few weeks of settlement, delays can happen due to paperwork, insurance processing, or lien resolution.
An experienced personal injury attorney can keep the process moving, protect your settlement, and ensure you receive every dollar you’re entitled to as quickly as possible.
If you’ve been injured or are facing a complex legal matter, reach out to Wilson Kehoe Winingham Injury Lawyers to schedule a consultation. Our team serves clients across Indianapolis and throughout Indiana, and we’re ready to pursue the justice and full compensation you deserve.