5 Factors Affecting How Long a Personal Injury Settlement Takes

A personal injury claim can help you get money for things like medical expenses, missed wages, and pain and suffering if you were hurt because of someone else’s carelessness. However, the question of how long it will take to achieve a settlement is one that frequently arises in such circumstances. Every personal injury case is different, but there are a number of variables that might lengthen or shorten the process. The length of time it takes to resolve a personal injury case might depend on a number of factors, some of which we’ll discuss here.

1. Severity of the Injury

One of the most important determinants of how long a personal injury claim lasts is the severity of the damage. In most cases, those with more serious injuries will need more time to heal before they can negotiate a settlement. This is due to the fact that it will take time for doctors to determine the full degree of your injuries and for you to recover from any necessary procedures.

The amount of compensation to which you may be entitled also depends on the seriousness of your injuries. The stakes are higher in situations involving catastrophic injuries, therefore insurance companies may need longer time to examine the situation and negotiate a settlement.

2. Legal Process and Court Delays

Personal injury suits can get contentious and end up in court in rare instances. Your car accident lawyer may advise you to go to court if settlement talks don’t go well. Since courts have different schedules and procedures, this can lengthen the process significantly. Your claim may take longer to resolve due to court delays, motions, and trial preparation time. Your lawyer will try to negotiate a reasonable settlement with the other party before going to court, as many personal injury cases are settled out of court.

3. Liability and Disputes

In every case involving injuries, determining who is at fault is crucial. The time it takes to reach a settlement may be reduced if responsibility is obvious. However, if culpability is unclear or being contested, your case may take much longer to resolve. It may take time for the insurance company to decide fault after an accident because of the possibility of a full investigation. In addition, negotiations may go on and litigation may be necessary if the other side disputes liability.

4. Negotiations and Communication

An important part of any personal injury settlement is the negotiation process. It may take some time for your attorney and the insurance company to negotiate a reasonable settlement after they make and counteroffers.

It is critical that your lawyer and the insurance company’s representatives work together effectively. Misunderstandings or a breakdown in discussions might cause delays. Keeping channels of communication open and unimpeded can speed up the resolution procedure.

5. Medical Treatment and Recovery

The timing of your personal injury settlement is entangled with your medical care and recovery. Your health and well-being should always come first, so make sure you get all the care you need before settling your claim including physical therapy.

If you settle too soon, before you know how your injuries will affect you in the future, you may get less money. Waiting until you’ve reached MMI (maximum medical improvement) before pursuing a settlement is standard advice given by attorneys. This guarantees that all medical expenses, both current and anticipated, are taken into account.

Endnote 

There are many variables that can affect how long a settlement for personal injury will last. While these may play a role in lengthening the process, getting well should always come first. An attorney who specializes in personal injury law can advise you on your legal options, represent you in negotiations, and guarantee that you are compensated fairly for your injuries.