There is no average timeline for a personal injury case in California. Even if average timeline statistics were available, each case is completely different. Knowing the average time for a personal injury case would not affect your case.
Some factors that may affect the timeline for your case are:
If you have significant damages, your case may take longer to resolve.
While this is not always the case, more substantial damages may:
Conversely, if you have relatively minor damages, all parties may be willing to settle quickly.
Some cases are more cut-and-dry than others. If a motorist strikes your vehicle, admits fault, and offers fair compensation, then your case may move swiftly. Other cases may be far more complex.
A personal injury case in California may become complicated if:
Cases may become even more complex if they go to trial. Settling is almost always the quickest, simplest resolution for a personal injury case.
The American Bar Association (ABA) explains that most personal injury cases settle. In some cases, though, one or more parties may refuse to settle. A defendant may refuse to accept liability, even if settling is the safer financial option. A plaintiff may be determined to seek maximum compensation at trial. Whatever the reason for bypassing a settlement, going to trial generally means extending the timeline of your case.
Though some factors are outside a lawyer’s control, an effective attorney may secure a comparatively quick resolution. An effective negotiator, for example, may secure a fair settlement without having to go to trial. A strong lawyer is not a guarantee of a short case timeline, but effective counsel can more efficiently get you the compensation you deserve.
Though each case is unique, personal injury cases may follow a similar pattern. Some steps in your case might have deadlines. Other steps, like settlement negotiations, might be more open-ended.
As the plaintiff in a personal injury case in California, you can generally expect to:
Your attorney may continue to seek a settlement even as trial proceedings begin. A settlement can occur at virtually any time. In some cases, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) may occur.
Even if you have prior experience and legal background, you should still choose to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer. You may hire a lawyer for your case in California because:
Most accident victims had little time to spare even before they suffered an unexpected injury. Between doctor’s appointments, rehabilitation, medical rest, and your pre-existing responsibilities, you may be stretched as thin as ever. Now imagine adding the time constraints of a lawsuit or insurance claim to your list of responsibilities. For most, it’s simply not realistic.
Faced with limited time and energy, are you confident that you can complete your case effectively? This is the real question. Even if you could complete your claim or lawsuit on your own, would you be able to put forth a strong case?
A lawyer handles cases like yours for a living. They will expend the necessary time and resources not just to conclude your case but to argue a strong case.
A capable law firm promises:
These offerings have value. It’s your decision of how much value to assign them. For many plaintiffs, the worth of these benefits is great.
If you suffered injuries, lost a loved one, or experienced harm of any kind, consult an attorney. Even if you ultimately take no action, speaking with a personal injury attorney is a prudent move.
An attorney will review your case. They’ll explain whether you have grounds for an insurance claim or lawsuit. They can help you execute either course of action.
California statutes generally allow you two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury case. This is one more reason to secure legal help as quickly as you can.