How Long Does a Personal Injury Case Take?

(May, 2025 - Colorado Springs, CO)

Wondering How Long it might take?

How Long Does a Personal Injury Case Take: The Big Picture

According to Scott Anderson of the Anderson Injury Law Firm, the average personal injury case takes about 1.5 to 2 years to resolve. However, this is just an average. Some cases wrap up quickly, while others can drag on for years. The timeline depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and whether or not a lawsuit is filed.

The Personal Injury Attorney's Perspective

When you first meet with a personal injury attorney, they'll evaluate your case and give you an idea of what to expect. Many attorneys, like Scott Anderson, offer free initial consultations. During this meeting, you'll learn about the legal process, potential timelines, and what factors might influence the duration of your case.

Stages of a Personal Injury Case and Their Timelines

Injury Treatment and Recovery Time

The first phase of any personal injury case is getting the necessary medical treatment and recovering from your injuries. This period can vary greatly from person to person. Some people bounce back quickly, while others may need months or even years of treatment. Your case can't move forward until you've reached maximum medical improvement or your condition has stabilized.

The Insurance Claim Process

Once you've completed treatment, the next step is handling the insurance claim. This process typically takes about six months. During this time, your attorney will gather all necessary documentation, submit the claim, and negotiate with the insurance company. The goal is to reach a fair settlement without going to court.

Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit

If a fair settlement can't be reached through negotiations, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit. It's important to note that not all cases require this step. In fact, Scott Anderson mentions that only about 30-35% of cases in his office need to go to court. However, if a lawsuit is necessary, it can add significant time to your case - typically about 1.5 years from the time of filing.

Factors Influencing Car Accident Lawsuit Timeline

Several factors can affect how long your car accident lawsuit takes:

• Severity of injuries: More serious injuries often require longer treatment times and may lead to more complex legal cases.

• Case complexity: Some cases involve multiple parties or complicated legal issues, which can extend the timeline.

• Insurance company cooperation: If the insurance company is quick to offer a fair settlement, the case may resolve faster.

• Court schedules: If your case goes to trial, you're at the mercy of the court's schedule, which can cause delays.

  
  

Understanding the Litigation Process

If your case does go to court, here's a brief overview of what to expect:

1. Filing the lawsuit: Your attorney prepares and files the necessary legal documents to start the case.

2. Discovery: Both sides exchange information and evidence related to the case.

3. Pretrial motions: Attorneys may file various motions to resolve issues before trial.

4. Settlement negotiations: Many cases settle during this phase, avoiding the need for a trial.

5. Trial: If a settlement isn't reached, your case will go to trial.

6. Post-trial motions and appeals: Even after a verdict, there may be additional legal steps.

Remember, settlement negotiations can happen at any point during this process, potentially shortening the overall timeline.

The Importance of Patience and Legal Representation

While waiting for your case to resolve can be frustrating, it's crucial to be patient. Rushing the process could result in a lower settlement that doesn't fully cover your damages. Having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side can help ensure your case moves as quickly as possible while still fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Every personal injury case is unique, and the timeline can vary significantly based on the specific circumstances. If you're dealing with a personal injury claim, it's always best to consult with a qualified attorney who can provide personalized advice based on your situation.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How soon after an accident should I contact a personal injury attorney?

It's best to contact an attorney as soon as possible after an accident. This ensures that important evidence is preserved and your rights are protected from the start.

Can I speed up my personal injury case?

While you can't control all factors, staying on top of your medical treatment, promptly providing information to your attorney, and being responsive to communications can help keep your case moving efficiently.

What if the insurance company offers a quick settlement?

Be cautious of quick settlement offers. They're often lower than what your case is worth. It's wise to consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement offer.

How does the severity of my injuries affect the case timeline?

More severe injuries often lead to longer cases because they require more extensive medical treatment and may involve higher damages, which can lead to more intense negotiations or litigation.

What percentage of personal injury cases go to trial?

According to Scott Anderson, only about 30-35% of cases require filing a lawsuit, and even fewer actually go to trial. Most cases are settled out of court.

Injured in an accident?

You don’t have to face it alone. Scott Anderson and the team at Anderson Injury Law are here to guide you every step of the way — from dealing with insurance companies to getting the compensation you deserve.

📍 Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, we proudly serve clients throughout El Paso County, including Fountain, Manitou Springs, Security-Widefield, and surrounding areas.

📞 Call now for a free consultation: (719) 473-1515

💻 Visit us online at AndersonInjuryLawFirm.com to learn more about how we can help after an injury.