Robert Hammers | January 9, 2026 | Personal Injury
After an accident, victims often send demand letters to insurance companies, such as Allstate, seeking compensation. A demand letter outlines the victim’s losses and the effects of their injuries and proposes a settlement. It serves as a starting point for negotiations.
Many people wonder how long it takes Allstate to respond. While there is no guaranteed timeline, understanding general practices and the factors that influence response times can help manage expectations.
What is the Purpose of a Demand Letter?
A demand letter is a formal document sent by an injured party (or their lawyer) to an insurer that details:
- The facts of the accident, including date, location, and how it occurred
- Injuries sustained and medical treatment received
- Financial losses such as medical bills, lost income, and property damage
- Non‑economic damages like pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- A specific dollar amount requested as a settlement
The demand letter invites the insurer to negotiate and may also warn that legal action will be taken if negotiations fail. A well‑drafted demand letter includes supporting evidence, such as medical records, photographs, and witness statements. The quality of the letter can influence how quickly the insurer responds.
Typical Response Time for Allstate
There is no specific law requiring insurers like Allstate to respond within a certain number of days. However, insurance companies are generally expected to act in good faith and handle claims promptly.
In practice, many insurers respond to demand letters within 30 days. This time allows adjusters to review the claim, assess liability, and consult with supervisors. Response times can also range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the case.
The lack of a strict deadline means responses can be delayed, especially in complex cases.
Factors Affecting Response Time
Several factors can influence how long it takes Allstate to respond, including:
- Case complexity: Claims involving severe injuries, multiple vehicles, or disputed liability require more thorough investigation and may take longer to resolve.
- Documentation quality: Incomplete or unclear demand letters require additional information. Missing medical records or receipts can delay the review process.
- Negotiation strategy: Insurance companies may delay responses to pressure claimants into accepting lower settlements or giving up. Patience and persistence are essential.
- Caseload and staffing: Insurance adjusters handle multiple claims simultaneously. High workloads can slow response times.
- Internal reviews: Large settlements often require approval from supervisors or legal teams, adding steps to the process.
Understanding these factors helps claimants remain patient while ensuring they have provided all necessary information.
What to Do if Allstate Delays Its Response
If Allstate takes longer than expected to respond to your demand letter, consider the following steps:
- Follow up: After a few weeks, send a polite email or call the adjuster to confirm receipt and ask for an estimated timeline.
- Provide additional information: If Allstate requests more documentation, supply it promptly. Ensure all bills, medical records, and receipts are included.
- Keep records: Document all communication with the insurer, including dates, times, and the names of adjusters. Written records can help if legal action becomes necessary.
- Consider filing a complaint: Insurance regulators oversee the behavior of insurers. If you believe Allstate is acting in bad faith, you may file a complaint with the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner.
- Consult your lawyer: They might be able to provide context for why the response might be taking so long and guide you on your next steps.
Taking these steps maintains momentum in your claim and signals that you are serious about obtaining fair compensation.
Contact Our Lawrenceville Personal Injury Lawyers at Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Allstate and other insurers typically have no strict legal deadline to reply to demand letters. While many responses arrive within 30 days, delays can extend the process to several months. Factors such as case complexity, missing documentation, and negotiation strategies also play a role.
To expedite your claim, prepare a thorough demand letter, follow up regularly, and seek legal counsel if necessary. By understanding the process and remaining persistent, you can improve your chances of receiving a timely and fair settlement. Call Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with our Lawrenceville personal injury lawyers.
We serve Fulton County and its surrounding areas:
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Atlanta
201 Joseph E Lowery Blvd NW Suite 312, Atlanta, GA 30314
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(770) 900-9000
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5555 Glenridge Con, Suite 975, Sandy Springs, GA 30342
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Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Lawrenceville
265 Culver St S. Suite A. Lawrenceville, GA 30046
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Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Mableton
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Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Smyrna
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(678) 922-4497
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Roswell
110 Mansell Cir #111, Roswell, GA 30075
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About Robert M. Hammers Jr.
Robert M. Hammers, Jr. is the managing partner at Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers in Atlanta. Committed to justice, he represents individuals harmed by negligence, focusing on personal injury litigation.
With over 50 jury trials and $100 million in verdicts and settlements, Rob is known for his strategic thinking and dedication to achieving the best outcomes for his clients. He serves on the Executive Committee for the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, the American Association for Justice Board of Governors, and the Plaintiff Leadership Committee in complex multi-district and toxic tort litigations, where he advocates for injured individuals and shapes legal strategies.
Robert is also recognized on Justia for his excellence in personal injury law, further highlighting his reputation and commitment to client advocacy.
