How Long Does It Take to Settle an 18-Wheeler Accident Case?

Were you injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Lanham, MD? You’re hurt, your car is likely totaled, and you’re suddenly faced with doctor’s appointments, paperwork, and a whole lot of stress. One of the first questions people ask is: “How long will this take to settle?”

At Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers, we’ve recovered over $100,000,000 in settlements and verdicts for our clients. Our Lanham truck accident lawyers have over 125 years of combined experience helping clients get the compensation they deserve.

Contact us today to arrange a free consultation at (301) 936-0011.  

Why Choose Alpert Schreyer to Help Me After a Truck Accident in Lanham, Maryland?

Why Choose Alpert Schreyer to Help Me After a Truck Accident in Lanham, Maryland?

At Alpert Schreyer, we’ve spent many years helping crash victims in Lanham and throughout Maryland get the support and compensation they need to move forward.

Here’s why folks choose our Lanham truck accident attorneys:

  • Over a century of combined legal experience
  • Recognized by Super Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers, and Martindale-Hubbell
  • Deep knowledge of trucking industry regulations

Our Lanham personal injury attorneys know how overwhelming a truck accident can feel — physically, financially, and emotionally. You don’t have to navigate the aftermath of your accident by yourself. Our team is here to alleviate your burden by managing all settlement negotiations, allowing you to prioritize your recovery.

Call our law office in Lanham, Maryland, to schedule a free consultation.

How Long Will My Case Take to Settle?

There’s no set timeline for settling a truck accident claim. Some cases resolve within a few months, while others — especially those involving serious injuries or complex circumstances, can take more than a year. It all depends on the details.

That said, here’s a general idea of what the process might look like:

In the Beginning

You’ll likely focus on getting medical treatment while your lawyer begins investigating the crash, collecting records, and notifying the insurance companies involved.

While You Recover

This phase often takes the most time. Your legal team may wait to begin settlement negotiations until your condition has stabilized — that way, the full scope of your injuries is clear.

Building Your Case for a Settlement

Once doctors have a good handle on your recovery, your lawyer can calculate your damages and submit a demand. Many cases settle at this stage, but not all.

If a Lawsuit Becomes Necessary

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit. This doesn’t mean your case will go to trial, but it can extend the timeline.

Why Do Truck Accident Cases Often Take Longer?

These aren’t your average fender-benders. Crashes involving 18-wheelers are more complex, often because:

  • Injuries are usually severe and take longer to treat.
  • More than one party could be responsible (the driver, the trucking company, etc.).
  • Trucking companies typically have large insurance policies and experienced legal teams.
  • There are federal safety rules and records (like driver logs and black box data) that may need to be reviewed.

The bottom line is that these cases require extra digging to get to the truth and build a strong claim.

What Could Slow Down the Settlement Process?

Several things can stretch out the process:

  • Arguments about who was at fault
  • Disputes over how serious your injuries are
  • Delays getting medical records or expert opinions
  • The insurance company playing hardball

Your lawyer’s job is to keep things moving and push back when insurers try to drag things out.

What Can a Settlement Cover?

Settling a truck accident case isn’t just about covering your current medical bills. A good settlement should account for all your losses — now and in the future. That includes losses like missed paychecks, pain and discomfort, future treatment, and how your life has changed. If your injuries are long-term, the value of your case could be significant. 

A skilled lawyer can help make sure the final number reflects everything you’ve been through.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Maryland?

Maryland gives you three years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit, not necessarily to settle. But that deadline still matters — because once it passes, your ability to recover compensation disappears unless you’ve taken legal action. Most truck accident cases either settle before that point or move into litigation. 

The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the more time you’ll have to build a strong case and negotiate a fair settlement.

What Can I Do to Help?

While your legal team handles the details, there are a few ways you can help your case:

  • Go to all your medical appointments and follow your treatment plan.
  • Keep track of your bills and any out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Avoid posting about the crash on social media.
  • Let your lawyer handle communications with the insurance company.

You should focus on getting better. Let us handle the rest.

Contact Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation With a Lanham Truck Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been hurt in a truck accident in Lanham, you deserve answers — and a legal team that has your back. At Alpert Schreyer, we’re here to listen, explain your options, and help you fight for the full compensation you need.

Reach out today to schedule a free consultation with a Lanham truck accident attorney. There’s no pressure and no upfront costs — just real help from people who care.