It is impossible to know how long a personal injury lawsuit case in California will take. Others are settled before a suit is filed. Some cases could take many years to be resolved by a jury.
A lawyer cannot provide an exact time estimate on How Long Does a Personal Injury Lawsuit Take, but can give you a rough estimate. Los Angeles personal injury attorneys can help you by evaluating all aspects of your claim.
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There Are Several Factors That Can Delay Your Case.
Depending on the circumstances, your personal injury claim could take a long time. The length of time varies from case to case. It is important to keep in mind that your lawyer will strive to prevent delays at all stages of the process. These factors include:
- Intentional delays. Insurance companies have a history of delaying injury settlements as long as possible. Each day that they delay paying you compensation for your injury is another day in which they are effectively holding your compensation without having to pay interest. Your lawyer can fight against insurance companies’ stalling tactics.
- Delays that are unnecessary. Not all attorneys are as diligent as plaintiffs in moving their personal injury cases forward. Select an attorney who won’t let your case stagnate.
- Serious injuries You can expect your case to be much longer if you have suffered serious injuries. It is particularly true if your injuries are severe and you need long-term care. Your injury case cannot be resolved until you reach maximum recovery.
- Big claims Your case is likely to take longer if you have a large claim. Insurance companies will often move quickly on minor injury claims but take longer on significant cases.
- Multiple parties. The litigation becomes more complex the more defendants are involved. When multiple parties are involved, litigation and discovery can take much longer.
- Disputed liability. If the defendant disputes that they are responsible for your injuries, it is most likely to lead to a trial. Trials take much longer than a typical personal injury settlement.
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Average Time Frames:
- Settlement: The average personal injury case settles within 12 to 14 months. However, some cases can be resolved within a few months, while others may take up to two years or longer.
- Trial: If your case goes to trial, the process can take 2 to 5 years from the date the lawsuit is filed. This timeframe includes pre-trial preparation, the trial itself, and any potential appeals.
Breakdown of How Long Does a Personal Injury Lawsuit Take & the Typical Stages Involved and Their Approximate Timelines:
- Initial Consultation and Investigation: 1-2 weeks
- Filing the Lawsuit: 2-3 weeks
- Discovery Phase: 3-6 months
- Settlement Negotiations: 3-6 months (if successful)
- Trial Preparation: 3-6 months (if settlement fails)
- Trial: 1-2 weeks
- Appeals Process: 6-12 months (if applicable)
Settlements
Negotiated settlements are the best way to settle a personal injury claim in the shortest time possible. Settlements can occur at any stage of the case but the majority are reached early in the process. A settlement can cut months, or even years, off of a personal injury case.
This does not mean that you should accept the first settlement offer for personal injury or a slip and fall. Insurance companies often make lowball offers for settlements immediately following an accident. The insurance companies hope you’ll accept the settlement before you know what your case is really worth.
It is best to hire an attorney to help you settle your injury claim. You must consider your future needs when settling your claim. Your claim settlement is your only chance, so make it count.
Tips to Expedite Your Case:
- Choose an experienced personal injury lawyer: An experienced lawyer can navigate the legal system efficiently and help you achieve a fair settlement or verdict.
- Gather and organize your documentation: This includes medical records, police reports, witness statements, and any other relevant evidence.
- Be responsive to your lawyer’s requests: Your promptness and cooperation will help streamline the process.
- Maintain open communication with your lawyer: Discuss any concerns or questions you may have openly and honestly.
Work with Lawyers
Tenina Law is ready to assist you in avoiding delays and securing a fair settlement as quickly as possible. We will make sure that the insurance companies do not delay your settlement and treat you fairly. We offer a free consultation so you can learn more about how we can assist.
[…] to take legal action if you have been injured and having emotional distress cause by someone else. Personal injury lawsuits can help you recover financial compensation for your […]