What is the Average Personal Injury Lawsuit Timeline?

Because every case is unique, it’s difficult to say how long the personal injury lawsuit process will take and when you can expect to recover compensation. The length of time it can take to resolve a case will vary and will depend on the money at stake, the severity of the accident victim’s injuries, and many other variables. When you meet with a personal injury lawyer, they can go over what to expect, answer any questions you may have, and guide you through every step of the legal process.

What is The Average Time It Takes to Settle a Personal Injury Case?

Learning about the elements of a personal injury case can prepare you for what to expect.

The stages of a personal injury case include:

Meeting with a Personal Injury Attorney

After an accident, you should meet with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced personal injury lawyer can go over the legal process, explain every stage, learn about your injuries, the medical treatment you’re undergoing, and go over the facts of your case.

Accident Investigation

Your personal injury lawyer will conduct an investigation. They will gather and analyze evidence, interview witnesses, and obtain phone records and video footage, photos of the accident scene, and other evidence that can support your claim.

Filing a Complaint

If you and your personal injury lawyer decide to move forward with your case, your attorney will file a personal injury complaint. The at-fault party will be served with the complaint within thirty to sixty days of filing the lawsuit. That party’s written response is due within thirty to forty-five days after receiving the complaint.

Mediation

Before your case goes to trial, you will need to participate in mediation. Mediation is meant to resolve the case without further litigation. It typically involves your personal injury attorney, a neutral third party, and the other party’s attorney. This part of the process can last a couple of days and often takes place between eight and eighteen months after the accident. Your lawyer will advise you on whether or not to accept the settlement offer. If you do not accept the settlement, your case will proceed to trial.

Trial

Most personal injury cases are settled out of court. If a personal injury case goes to trial, the trial itself will begin within twenty-four months of filing. The trial itself can last a few days or several months.

What Factors Can Determine the Length Of a Personal Injury Case?

Other factors that can impact how long a personal injury lawsuit will take can include:

When You Reach Maximum Medical Improvement

If you suffered catastrophic injuries, the length of time it takes before you’ve reached maximum medical improvement can impact how long your case takes.

Court Schedules

The court’s schedule can impact a personal injury lawsuit’s timeline. Your case can be delayed past your scheduled court date if there’s a change of venue, calendar conflicts with the judge, or a full court docket.

Contact Us Today

If you were injured in an accident that was caused by the negligence of another, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a personal injury lawyer at Friedland Law today to schedule a free legal consultation to learn how we can help you fight for the compensation you’re owed.

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