How Long Does a Typical Car Accident Lawsuit Take?
A typical car accident lawsuit can take up to six months but maybe longer depending on the specifics of your case. Some factors that can lengthen or shorten the process include liability, the amount of insurance coverage, and your location. However, the majority of car accidents are resolved through settlement. It’s important to choose an experienced attorney for a car accident lawsuit, as they can help you determine the most likely financial outcome.
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An accident can be stressful, especially if you are dealing with medical bills and lost wages. You want to get the compensation you deserve as quickly as possible. Even the best lawyers can’t always expedite the legal process. It can take years to resolve your claim.
One of the earliest steps is filing a formal complaint with the court. This is followed by a discovery process, in which the parties exchange information. The parties also have the option of mediation, which is a chance to discuss the case and possibly reach a settlement. Many rules govern the legal system, which means that a trial can add to the timeline.
One of the biggest factors that can speed up or prolong the legal process is whether or not the defendant’s insurance company is willing to settle. The insurer is often more receptive to settling than the plaintiff, who may be in the middle of recovering from injuries. If the insurer offers a settlement before you have had a chance to respond, it’s usually a good idea to accept it.
Another thing that can speed up or slow down the settlement process is whether or not the at-fault party is found to be at fault. If the at-fault party is partially or fully at fault, you’ll receive less compensation. But in some states, such as California, you’ll receive a larger portion of your damages if you’re found to be partially at fault.
The discovery process is a big step toward settling. Your lawyer will gather the necessary paperwork, take depositions from the other parties, and gather affidavits from witnesses. The purpose of the discovery process is to learn the facts that will help you win the case.
One of the most important parts of the discovery process is getting a detailed medical report. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you’ll have to seek a doctor’s opinion to prove you have a valid claim. Once you have a proper medical report, you can start to negotiate a settlement. During this process, you’ll need to gather your medical records, wage loss verifications, and property damage estimates. These documents will be essential in calculating your out-of-pocket expenses.
Lastly, you’ll have to determine the value of your claim. After evaluating your medical evidence, you’ll be able to estimate how much money you can collect. Having this estimate before you begin negotiations will give you an advantage. Depending on the facts of your case, a jury award could be the best way to get the compensation you need and deserve.