The Timeframe Will Vary – Weeks, Months, or Years

No two personal injury cases are exactly alike, and there is no set timeframe for how long one particular case will take to conclude. It is important to point out that most personal injury claims are resolved through settlements with insurance carriers. While there is some variation when it comes to negotiating with insurance carriers, most insurance settlements are paid within a month to six weeks after the incident occurs. However, if an insurance carrier refuses to offer a fair settlement or denies a claim, it may be necessary for the injury victim and their attorney to file a personal injury lawsuit against the alleged negligent party.

Your Medical Care Drives the Timeline

The most important aspect after sustaining an injury is seeking medical care. Your case cannot settle until after you have reached what doctors call maximum medical improvement. There is no way that an injury victim can properly settle their case without knowing exactly how much their total medical bills will be. We encourage every injury victim to continue all medical care recommended by their doctor.

The Investigation into the Incident

After a lawsuit has been filed, the attorneys will conduct a complete investigation into the incident. They will gather all evidence in the case, consult with trusted medical experts, and reconstruct the accident if necessary. After a lawsuit has been filed, there will be what is called the “discovery phase,” where attorneys from both sides will share evidence they have gathered with one another. Depositions may need to be taken from any witnesses involved in the case.

Lawyers Making Demands and Negotiation

Most personal injury cases are settled before they go to a full jury. Attorneys from both sides will continue negotiating throughout the civil personal injury lawsuit process. In some cases, this negotiation may take place in a formal mediation session ordered by the court. If a settlement is reached, this will effectively end the lawsuit. However, if a fair offer is not made or accepted, it will be necessary to take the case to trial.

The full personal injury lawsuit process can take anywhere from several months to a year or more to reach a conclusion.

Working with an Attorney Can Help Move Things Along

If you or somebody you care about has been injured due to the careless or negligent actions of somebody else, you need to consider working with the skilled attorneys at Gergley Law as soon as possible. An attorney with experience and legal knowledge will understand the ins and outs of these cases and be able to move your case towards the path of maximum compensation. As personal injury lawyers in Michigan, we will also understand how to move a case along if it seems to be stuck in the mud. You need an advocate for these cases, and there is no harm in seeking a free consultation to gain an understanding of what needs to happen moving forward.