What Factors Determine the Timeline for a Personal Injury Case?
How long it takes to settle a personal injury case depends on several factors. Some cases can be resolved in a matter of weeks, while more complex cases can end up in litigation.
Factors that affect how soon a case is settled include:
The Severity of the Injuries and the Time it Takes to Reach MMI
Before a personal injury lawyer can calculate an accident victim’s damages, their client must reach maximum medical improvement. Maximum medical improvement is the point at which an accident victim’s physician believes that they have healed to the fullest extent possible. With life-changing injuries it can take significantly longer to reach maximum medical improvement.
The Value of a Claim
An accident claim with a higher value can be more difficult to settle quickly compared to claims that are only worth a few thousand dollars. The more money that’s at stake, the greater the incentive will be for a claims adjuster to attempt to minimize payout.
Alternative Dispute Resolution Or Litigation
Whether the injured party decides to settle their case through alternative dispute resolution or file a personal injury lawsuit can have a major impact on how quickly a claim is settled. Often, the fastest way to settle a case is through mediation, however, if mediation isn’t successful, arbitration is another option. Litigation can take significantly longer than mediation or arbitration.
How Can I Speed Up the Settlement Process?
While an accident victim doesn’t have control over all of the factors that can affect how long it takes to settle a case, there are some things they can do to speed up the process.
Gather Documentation
Gathering and organizing documents can help speed up the settlement process. This type of documentation can include medical bills, medical records, police reports, employment records, and other important documents.
Communicate with the Other Parties Involved
Effectively communicating with all parties involved can also speed up the settlement process. A personal injury lawyer has extensive experience communicating with insurance companies and defense attorneys.
Alternative Dispute Options
Choosing alternative dispute resolution, such as arbitration or mediation can resolve a dispute much faster than going to trial.
Contact a Texas Personal injury Lawyer
Hiring a personal injury lawyer can be invaluable during this difficult time. An attorney will not allow a defense lawyer or insurance company to drag its feet. They will stay in close contact with the claims adjuster to ensure the insurance company isn’t using delay tactics or other bad faith practices. They will also recommend alternative dispute resolutions if they believe you have a good chance of settling your case for the compensation you deserve.
