What Is The Timeline For A Personal Injury Case?
Understanding the timeline of a personal injury case can help you set realistic expectations and plan accordingly. While every case is unique, most follow a similar progression.
Typical Personal Injury Case Timeline
Immediate: Seek Medical Treatment (Day 1)
Your health is the top priority. Seek immediate medical attention and follow all treatment recommendations. This also begins documenting your injuries.
Week 1-2: Consult with an Attorney
Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Early legal representation can:
- Preserve crucial evidence
- Handle insurance communications
- Protect your rights
- Begin investigating your case
Month 1-3: Investigation Phase
Your attorney will:
- Gather police reports
- Interview witnesses
- Collect medical records
- Document damages
- Assess insurance coverage
Month 3-6: Medical Treatment & Recovery
Continue with medical treatment until you reach "maximum medical improvement" (MMI). This is when your condition has stabilized, allowing for accurate case valuation.
Month 6-12: Demand and Negotiation
Once treatment is complete:
- Attorney sends demand letter to insurance company
- Negotiations begin
- Most cases settle during this phase
Month 12-18: Filing a Lawsuit (If Necessary)
If negotiations fail:
- Lawsuit is filed before statute of limitations
- Discovery phase begins
- Depositions are taken
- Mediation may be attempted
Month 18-24+: Trial Preparation and Trial
If no settlement is reached:
- Trial preparation intensifies
- Trial typically lasts 3-5 days
- Verdict is rendered
- Appeals may follow
Factors That Affect Timeline
Factors That Speed Up Cases:
- Clear liability
- Well-documented injuries
- Cooperative insurance companies
- Reasonable settlement expectations
Factors That Slow Down Cases:
- Disputed liability
- Complex injuries requiring extended treatment
- Multiple parties involved
- Uncooperative insurance companies
- Need for expert witnesses
California Statute of Limitations
You generally have 2 years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit in California. However, there are exceptions:
- Government claims: 6 months
- Medical malpractice: 1 year from discovery (max 3 years)
- Minors: Until age 20
Why Patience Pays Off
While it's natural to want quick resolution, rushing can result in:
- Accepting lowball offers
- Missing future medical costs
- Incomplete understanding of injuries
- Inadequate compensation
How KR Law, APC Manages Your Timeline
We understand that waiting is difficult, especially when bills are mounting. At KR Law, APC, we:
- Communicate regularly about case progress
- Work efficiently while being thorough
- Fight for maximum compensation
- Never rush you into settlement
Start Your Timeline Today
The sooner you begin, the sooner you can reach resolution. Don't let the statute of limitations jeopardize your case.
Contact KR Law, APC at (213) 833-8361 for a free consultation and begin your journey toward fair compensation.