One of the first questions that clients often ask is “How long does a personal injury case take?” and the answer depends on many factors that include the location of where your personal injury case takes place. The state of your personal injury case litigation plays a huge role in determining the answer to the question.
The short answer to the question above is that it can take anywhere between a few months and two years. Sometimes a client’s financial situation dictates how long a personal injury case takes. Those who require immediate financial relief are more likely to settle before the end of litigation. Our friends at Norris Law have provided you with more information below.
The Process of a Personal Injury Claim
Part of knowing the answer to how long a personal injury case can take is to understand the process that goes into the personal injury claim. You should keep in mind that most personal injury cases settle long before the start of a trial.
Receive Medical Treatment
The very first step in the personal injury claim process involves getting medical attention for your injuries. Paying for medical expenses typically takes up the most compensation awarded in a personal injury case. You will need to get medical records, such as the results of diagnostic tests, to receive compensation. Your lawyer can help you through getting all the documentation you need for this process.
Meet with a Lawyer
The next step you should take after receiving medical treatment is to meet with a personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can review the medical evidence that you have gathered to help you determine the monetary value of your claim. They can also analyze the evidence that is associated with their personal injury case and inform you if you have a solid case or not.
Try to Negotiate a Settlement
Your lawyer is going to act as the intermediary between you and your insurance company. Insurance companies employ a team of lawyers that have considerable experience whittling down insurance payments to the victims of personal injury accidents. Your lawyer can try to negotiate a favorable settlement that pays for your medical bills and the wages lost if you aren’t able to work.
File a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If you cannot negotiate a settlement, then your case could go to court. Your lawyer will file the correct paperwork to ensure that your case is in the right civil court. From there, they can help you through the process of going through the trial and all the things you must complete in order to be successful
We know that a personal injury claim can feel like it takes forever, and that is why we suggest turning to a lawyer. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you get the compensation you need to move on from your injuries.