Understanding how long a personal injury case takes
One of the most common questions accident victims ask is how long their case will take. The honest answer is: it depends. Simple cases with clear liability and minor injuries may settle in a few months. Complex cases involving severe injuries, disputed liability, or multiple parties can take years. The timeline below shows the typical phases every personal injury case goes through, from accident to resolution.
The moment the accident occurs and immediate aftermath. Your safety and health are the top priority.
Focus on your recovery. Follow all medical advice and attend every appointment.
The point where your condition has stabilized. Your doctor determines you've recovered as much as expected.
Your attorney (or you) sends a formal demand to the insurance company outlining your damages.
Back-and-forth negotiation with the insurance company. This is where most cases settle.
If negotiations fail, a lawsuit may be filed. This doesn't mean going to trial - most lawsuits still settle.
The case concludes with either a settlement agreement or trial verdict.
| Case Type | Typical Timeline | Settlement Range |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Injuries (soft tissue) | 3-6 months | $10,000 - $25,000 |
| Moderate Injuries (fractures) | 6-12 months | $25,000 - $100,000 |
| Severe Injuries (surgery) | 12-24 months | $100,000 - $500,000 |
| Catastrophic (TBI, paralysis) | 2-4+ years | $500,000+ |
* These are general estimates. Actual timelines vary based on case complexity, jurisdiction, insurance company, and whether litigation is required.
Rushing to settle before you've fully recovered often means leaving money on the table. However, you can help by staying organized, attending all medical appointments, and responding promptly to your attorney's requests.
Some people consider lawsuit funding (cash advances against future settlement). This can help with bills but comes with high fees. Discuss options with your attorney.
Sometimes yes, but the trade-off is typically a higher settlement. Studies show that represented claimants receive 3-3.5x more than unrepresented claimants, even after attorney fees.
Disclaimer: This timeline is for educational purposes only and represents typical scenarios. Every case is unique, and your timeline may vary significantly based on the specific circumstances of your case. This is not legal advice. Consult with a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Now that you understand the timeline, use our free calculator to estimate what your case might be worth based on your specific damages and state laws.
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