If you are involved in an automobile accident resulting in a personal injury lawsuit, it could take anywhere from a few months to several years to resolve. There are many factors impacting the complexity of these cases, including the occurrence of serious injuries, disputes over who is at fault, if there are other factors or third parties involved in the suit, etc.
A simple case with only minor injuries when it’s clear who the party at fault is can still take anywhere from 3 – 12 months to resolve. A more complex case involving serious injuries or fatalities can lead to years of litigation before a case is settled. Here are a few of the factors that can prolong a personal injury suit from being resolved:
- Severity of injuries: A longer recovery means a longer timeline to reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). MMI refers to the point where an injured person’s condition has stabilized and is unlikely to improve substantially with further medical treatment. It can be difficult to settle a personal injury lawsuit until all medical treatments are received and recovery is completed.
- Disputed liability: If there is a disagreement over who is ultimately at fault for a crash, it can significantly delay completing a lawsuit. It’s impossible to resolve litigation without knowing the party at fault.
- Discovery: The process of exchanging evidence can take months to over a year in complex cases. Both parties will be gathering evidence, speaking to witnesses, etc. and sharing this information can be quite time-consuming.
- Insurance company tactics: While all drivers are required to have insurance by law, that doesn’t necessarily mean insurance companies are enthusiastic about paying claims. Delays and lowball offers can lead to a longer litigation process.
These factors can all lead to a longer legal process. Injuries and the long-term effects of a car accident can cause lost wages, medical expenses, and more. It’s important to make sure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to after an accident.
Contacting a personal injury attorney with experience is key to making sure you and your loved ones are taken care of. The team at Lowe Trial Lawyers will listen to your case, research the facts, and let you know if litigation is an option for you.