How Long Does It Take To Resolve A Personal Injury Case?
One of the most common questions personal injury victims ask is: “How long will my case take?” The truth is there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The timeline for resolving a personal injury case depends on several key factors, including the complexity of the accident, the extent of your injuries, the insurance company’s cooperation, and whether your case goes to trial.
Here’s a breakdown of the stages and typical timelines involved in a Florida personal injury case.
Average Timeline for a Personal Injury Case
While some cases may resolve in a few months, more complex claims can take a year or longer. On average:
- Simple cases (minor injuries, clear liability): 3 to 6 months
- Moderate cases (ongoing treatment, insurance dispute): 6 to 12 months
- Complex cases (serious injuries, disputed fault, trial): 12 to 24+ months
Factors That Affect How Long Your Personal Injury Case Takes
Severity and Complexity of Injuries
More serious injuries require longer treatment, more medical records, expert opinions, and projections of future care. This complexity adds time, but it is necessary for full compensation.
Disputed Liability
If the at-fault party denies responsibility, additional investigation, accident reconstruction, and expert opinions are needed. These disputes lengthen the case but are vital to proving negligence.
Multiple Defendants or Insurance Policies
If more than one party is potentially liable, or there are umbrella or excess liability policies, the claim will take longer to evaluate and negotiate.
Insurance Company Tactics
Some insurers deliberately delay, hoping claimants will accept low offers. A seasoned personal injury attorney fights hard against these delay tactics and uses legal pressure where necessary.
Court Congestion and Legal Delays
Trial scheduling delays due to court overload or legal motion hearings can push timelines further than expected. Skilled attorneys minimize delays by proactively managing court deadlines.
Why Rushing a Personal Injury Settlement Is Risky
Accepting a settlement too soon before reaching MMI or understanding the full value of your claim can result in:
- Inadequate compensation for future medical bills
- Unrecovered lost income due to long-term disability
- No compensation for emotional distress or reduced quality of life
We ensure every case is resolved at the right time, not the fastest, because you only get one chance to settle.
Be Patient, Be Prepared
The duration of your personal injury case depends on the facts of your situation, the willingness of the insurer to negotiate fairly, and the expertise of your legal team. While every case is unique, the ultimate goal remains to get the maximum compensation for your injuries, losses, and suffering.
Do not settle for less, and do not settle too soon. Our trusted personal injury attorneys will guide you through every phase of your case with confidence, clarity, and commitment to results.