Unfortunately, you can suffer severe injuries through no fault of your own. When this is the case, you can file a personal injury claim against the responsible party to recover monetary compensation for your economic and non-economic damages. Many often wonder how long it will take to resolve their personal injury case. There is no easy answer, as every case is different. However, settling can take as little as six months or as long as three years. That said, victims, wonder whether undergoing this legal process is even worth it in the first place. Although the timeline may not be clear, it is crucial to be patient and take advantage of the opportunity, as you may be eligible for significant compensation for your losses. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contact our talented Santa Clara County Personal Injury Attorneys, who can help you fight for the just compensation you deserve and need. Please continue reading to learn about some factors that can impact the length of litigation.
How long will it take to settle my personal injury claim in California?
Victims are sometimes fortunate enough to settle early in the process. However, negotiating a fair settlement may take up to a year in other cases. When a settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to trial. Although a trial may take a few weeks to conclude, the pre-trial process can take over a year. In California, you have two years from the accident date to file a claim against a negligent party. Despite having a two-year window to file your claim, it is better to file it sooner rather than later. This is because the earlier you file, the sooner the legal process can commence.
Moreover, several factors can impact the duration of your case. The complexity of your case and the severity of your injuries significantly affect the length of litigation. For instance, if you have suffered a minor injury in a slip and fall accident, your case will be resolved more quickly than if you suffered catastrophic injuries in an auto accident. This is because, with minor injuries, you may expect to recover fully within months. While with severe injuries, it may take years to heal.
Additionally, whether or not liability is disputed will impact the length of litigation. In cases where one party is entirely at fault, settling will be easier. However, when the defendant claims you were partially at fault, it will slow down the process as you must provide evidence to prove liability. Ultimately, several factors can impact the length of litigation. Despite these factors, acquiring quality legal counsel can minimize the time it takes to resolve your case.
If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contact a trusted Santa Clara County personal injury attorney from The Law Offices of Brian J. O’Grady as soon as possible. Our legal team is prepared to help you seek reasonable compensation for your damages. Allow our firm to represent your interest today.