How Long Does a Personal Injury Claim Last?
Each personal injury case is different, and so is its timeline. At Trident Law HQ, we’ve handled claims that were settled in months; yet, others took years. It depends on the severity of your injuries, insurance companies’ cooperation, and if your case goes to court.
At Trident Law HQ, we make sure your claim moves forward efficiently, without ever sacrificing the compensation you deserve.
How a Personal Injury Claim Works
Understanding how a personal injury claim works is key to estimating how long it may last. Each stage of the process builds the foundation for fair compensation. Here’s what to expect:
- Initial Consultation and Case Review
Your attorney will evaluate your case and determine if you have a viable claim. - Investigation and Evidence Collection
This phase often involves collecting medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and other crucial evidence. - Medical Treatment and Documentation
Before determining a claim’s value, your lawyer will often wait for you to reach “maximum medical improvement.” This process ensures all long-term medical costs are included, so you don’t pay out-of-pocket costs later. - Settlement Negotiations
Once your attorney has calculated your total damages, they’ll negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement. - Litigation (If Necessary)
Your attorney may file a lawsuit if the insurer refuses to settle fairly.
Please note that each case follows these general steps. The timeline depends on how complex the evidence and negotiations become.
The Factors Affecting a Personal Injury Claim
Multiple factors affect a personal injury claim, including:
- The insurance companies involved
- How long it takes for the companies to receive relevant documents, like medical records or lost wage forms
- Whether or not there is a liability dispute or claim in bad fath
- Severity of injuries sustained, and if they are permanent
Potential Damages Rewarded in a Personal Injury Claim
Did you know that personal injury damages are divided into two categories? The first category is general damages; you are compensated for injuries that don’t have a specific dollar amount. The second is special damages, which are monetary losses.
When filing for general damages, you must prove that your injury directly caused them. General damages often include:
- Physical pain
- Emotional pain and/or suffering
- Disability or disfigurement
- Mental or physical impairment
- Emotional distress
In comparison, special damages could include:
- Lost wages and loss of future earning potential
- Medical bills and rehabilitation costs
- Repair or replacement of damaged property
Whether you’re filing for general or special damages, you carry the burden of proof. This means you must show how the accident directly caused your losses. A personal injury lawyer could help you build a strong case to receive fair compensation.
How to Choose the Best Personal Injury Attorney
When choosing a personal injury lawyer, experience, communication, and results matter the most. The best personal injury attorney knows how to prove liability and negotiate aggressively. They should also be capable of taking your case to court if necessary.
While researching potential candidates, you should look for:
- Proven results in personal injury settlements and verdicts
- Clear communication throughout every stage of your case
- Access to medical and financial experts who can strengthen your claim
- A strong reputation for holding insurance companies accountable
For more than two decades, Trident Law HQ has recovered over $2 billion for more than 250,000 clients nationwide. Our attorneys understand how devastating an accident can be. We’re here to make sure you’re treated fairly from start to finish.