How Long Will My Personal Injury Case Take?

The time it takes to settle a personal injury claim can vary. However, most cases settle between a few months and a couple of years. 

In our brief post today, we’ll explain some of the main factors that can impact the time it takes your case to settle. Also, we’ll share the order that a typical personal injury claim follows from start to finish. Remember, the best source of information about your case will always be your personal injury attorney. 

Factors that Influence How Fast a Case Settles 

There are many reasons why one case may take longer than another case to settle. Here are some factors to consider: 

• Liability issues. Gathering additional evidence and consulting with experts to prove your case will certainly add time. 
• Legal complexities. Your lawyer may need additional time and research to sort these out.
• Large claims. If you’re seeking a large settlement, it’s likely negotiations will take longer.
• Long recovery. Your lawyer will want you to reach your Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) before sending in your demand. In other words, your recovery speed may be tied to your settlement speed. 
• Litigation. If negotiations stall, we may advise we file a lawsuit on your behalf. This process could extend the process quite a bit longer. 

The Value of Patience 

We recognize that many of our clients need their money quickly. However, there are a few good reasons to be patient. 

1. The first offer is rarely the strongest. We often obtain the best result through negotiations. 
2. You don’t want to seem too eager to settle. If we pester the insurance company too eagerly for their offer, they may perceive you need the money right away. When that happens, they may try to lowball you, in hopes you’ll accept quickly. 
3. You may not realize the extent of your damages. It’s important to reach MMI before settling. Only then do you have a full picture of your medical bills, pain, and suffering. 

Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer