When involved in a personal injury incident, you may wonder about the duration of the legal process that follows.
The time it takes to resolve a personal injury case can vary significantly, depending on various factors.
Investigation and preparation
Personal injury cases typically begin with an investigation. This phase involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses and assessing the extent of your injuries. It can take several weeks or even months to compile all the necessary information.
Filing the claim
Once the investigation is complete, the next step is to file the claim with the responsible party’s insurance company. The process varies, but generally, this step can take a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the insurer’s responsiveness and willingness to engage in negotiations.
Negotiations and settlement
Negotiating a settlement can be swift or prolonged, depending on the complexity of the case and the parties involved. Insurance companies may propose settlements that do not adequately cover your damages, leading to extended negotiations. This process might last anywhere from a few months to over a year.
Litigation and trial
If you cannot reach a settlement cannot, the case may proceed to litigation. Litigation can be time-consuming, as it involves various stages, including discovery, depositions and hearings. The length of this phase varies greatly, but it can extend for several months or even years.
Resolution and appeals
After the trial concludes, the judge or jury will issue a verdict. In some cases, either party may choose to appeal the decision. Appeals can add another one to two years to the process, further prolonging the case’s duration.
In 2021, unintentional injuries sent 25.5 million Americans to the emergency room. While a personal injury lawsuit takes time, the long-term effects of your injury may make the journey worth it.