In the United States, the timeline for settlement in a personal injury case is typically anywhere between one and three years. This might seem long, but many things can influence this timeframe.
In the journey to getting your due compensation, some roads are smooth and direct, while others are full of twists and turns. The severity of your injury is like a detour on that journey, adding extra time and complexity.
Here’s why injury severity is a major factor in how long your case might take:
Severe Injuries Require More Time to Treat
The more serious your injury, the more medical attention you likely need. This might involve doctor visits, therapists, specialists, and maybe even surgery. Each step takes time to schedule, attend, and recover from.
Also, doctors need time to assess the full impact of your injury. They want to see how your body heals and if there will be any lasting effects. This takes time, and the longer it takes to understand your injury fully, the longer it takes to settle your case.
Bills Keep Piling Up
Serious injuries often lead to high medical bills. These bills become evidence to show how much your injury has cost you.
But gathering and organizing all these documents takes time. Insurance companies also need time to review them before offering compensation. It goes without saying that this back-and-forth can significantly extend the case’s duration.
Future costs Need to Be Covered
Let’s say your injury is so bad it affects your ability to work long-term. This raises the question of how much future income you might lose due to the accident.
Now, to calculate these future losses accurately, you’ll need vocational rehabilitation specialists or economists. The more uncertain your future is due to the injury, the longer it might take to reach a settlement.
The Excessive Back and Forth of Insurance Negotiations
Most personal injury cases are settled outside of court through negotiation between your lawyer and the at-fault party’s insurance company. Negotiations can be lengthy, especially when severe injuries are involved.
In a bid to cut down on the amount of money they have to pay, the insurance companies may try to downplay the seriousness of your injury or even argue that you share some blame for the accident.
They will go on this back and forth for as long as they can manage, in the hopes that you’ll get frustrated enough to let go of your claims.
You must not fall for this scam. The law allows the insurance company sufficient time to take on any background investigation and assessment they need. But, if it becomes evident that they are stalling for no reason, your lawyer can get a judge to call them to order.
You can also do your part by following them up proactively. Keep in touch through phone calls, emails, and even physical checkups at their office. All of these your lawyer can use as proof of the fact that they’re trying to exploit you using the delay tactic.
Going to Trial
If negotiations break down, your case might go to trial. This is the longest and most complex option. Trials involve extensive preparation, witness depositions, and presenting evidence in front of a judge or jury.
The more serious your injury, the more complex the trial will likely be, and of course, this will add even more time to your case.
Wrapping Up
A thorough investigation and negotiation process are necessary to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. Any time you start to feel overwhelmed by how long it’s taking for you to get the compensation that you truly deserve, remind yourself that the wait is an investment in your future well-being.
Be patient, cooperate with your lawyer, and focus on getting the medical care you need.
