Detailed Answer
This overview explains what most people can expect in terms of timing after they send a written demand package to an insurance company in Nevada. It assumes no unusual facts and does not take the place of personalized legal advice.
What a “demand” is
A demand is a written package you (or your attorney) send to the insurer that states the facts, the legal basis for the claim, copies of key evidence (photos, medical records, bills, repair estimates), and a clear dollar figure or range that you seek to resolve the claim. A complete demand reduces back-and-forth and speeds a response.
Typical timeline you can expect
- Immediate acknowledgment (within days to 2 weeks): Many insurers will acknowledge receipt of a demand quickly — often within a few business days to two weeks — especially if a claim file already exists. That acknowledgement may be automated or from the assigned adjuster.
- Initial evaluation (2–4 weeks): The insurer reviews the demand, pulls the file, checks reserves, reviews liability and damages, and decides whether more information is needed. For straightforward claims (clear liability, simple damages) this often finishes in 2–4 weeks.
- Request for additional information (2–6 weeks): If the insurer needs medical records, repair estimates, recorded statements, or police reports, expect one or more requests. Each request and your response will extend the timeline. A complete response speeds things up.
- Preliminary offer or rejection (3–8 weeks): For many ordinary claims the insurer will make an initial offer or a partial offer within about 3–8 weeks of receiving a complete demand. This varies with complexity, internal review processes, and whether experts (e.g., medical or accident reconstruction) are needed.
- Complex or litigated claims (2–6+ months): If liability is disputed, injuries are complex, or experts and depositions are required, expect months rather than weeks. If a suit has been filed, settlement negotiations often continue through discovery and right up until trial.
Statutory and regulatory context in Nevada
Nevada law treats unreasonable delay and unfair claim settlement practices as improper. See Nevada’s statutes on unfair claim settlement practices for insurers (NRS Chapter 686A): https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-686A.html. If you suspect the insurer is unreasonably delaying, you can ask the Nevada Division of Insurance about filing a consumer complaint: https://doi.nv.gov/.
When to consider the insurer’s offer “initial” vs. final
An initial offer is often a starting point for negotiations. Insurers commonly start low to test the claimant’s bottom line. A truly final offer will be clearly labeled or will be accompanied by language that the company considers the matter closed pending your acceptance. Never assume the first number is final unless the insurer says so in writing.
Practical steps that affect timing
- Send a complete demand. Missing records cause delay.
- Set a reasonable response deadline in your demand (commonly 30 days). A deadline signals seriousness and gives you a basis for follow-up.
- Follow up promptly when the insurer requests more information. Each pause adds time.
- Keep a clear communication trail (emails, certified mail receipts, notes of phone calls).
When to get a lawyer
If you receive no substantive response within a reasonable period after a complete demand (commonly 30–60 days), if the insurer refuses to negotiate without a clear legal basis, or if the insurer’s conduct looks reckless or intentionally obstructive, consider consulting an attorney to evaluate options including litigation or a bad-faith claim. Also consult counsel if the statute of limitations could run soon (see Nevada statutes governing time limits on lawsuits at NRS Chapter 11: https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-011.html).
Important: the timeline above is illustrative. Each claim differs. Use it as a planning guide, not a guarantee.
Helpful Hints
- Prepare a complete demand: include a clear statement of facts, liability evidence, medical records, bills, and a single demand figure or narrow range.
- Include a response deadline (30 days is common) and state you will follow up if you don’t hear back.
- Ask for an assigned adjuster’s name and direct contact information in your demand.
- Respond quickly to requests for additional records or statements to avoid delays.
- Keep copies of everything and document all phone calls (date, time, person, substance).
- If you get a low initial offer, respond with a reasoned counter that adds missing evidence or explains damages more fully.
- If the insurer shows signs of unfair delay, consider contacting the Nevada Division of Insurance: https://doi.nv.gov/.
- If you face a near deadline to file a lawsuit, consult an attorney immediately to avoid losing rights under Nevada’s statutes (see NRS Chapter 11: https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-011.html).
- Consider hiring an attorney early if liability is contested, injuries are serious, or the insurer refuses to negotiate in good faith.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. It does not provide legal advice, and it does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about a specific situation, consult a licensed Nevada attorney.