Determining the average time to settle a personal injury case can be fairly challenging. This is because personal injury claims often vary significantly. While one case could last a few months, another could take several years to reach a suitable settlement.
Generally, people who negotiate their own cases get a speedier resolution. However, this is usually at the expense of their rights as the insurance company will often offer less money than they deserve.
By hiring Jersey City Personal Injury Attorney, you secure your right to maximum compensation while avoiding any undue delays.
Let’s look at what goes into resolving a personal injury claim.
Factors That Affect the Duration of a Personal Injury Case
Generally, complex cases that involve contested fault or severe injuries require more time to settle. This is because they might call for more investigation and extended negotiations to reach a fair resolution. Other factors that impact how long it takes to settle a personal injury claim include:
- The type of personal injury case
- The quality of evidence available
- The at-fault party’s willingness to negotiate or make a reasonable settlement offer
- The possibility of a lawsuit
Determining Damages
When you retain an attorney, they will often begin by evaluating your losses to determine damages. This process usually involves consulting with various professionals to investigate the following:
- The extent of your injuries
- Your current and future medical costs
- Possibility of disability
- Resultant losses to your income
- The scope of your pain and suffering
Overall, the more severe your injuries, the longer this process could take.
Negotiating Your Claim
After determining how much you will be seeking in damages, your attorney will issue the at-fault party’s insurer with a demand letter detailing your claim. The insurance provider will then try to reduce or deny liability by poking holes in your case. Your attorney will refute all arising arguments.
Next, the insurance provider will make a counteroffer. This is often a lower amount than the case calls for. Your attorney will then make another offer, and negotiations will begin.
There is no set duration for negotiations. Generally, cases with apparent fault require less negotiation time as they provide your attorney with a strong negotiation position.
Reaching a Resolution
There are two ways to resolve a personal injury claim. One, you could accept the insurance provider’s settlement offer. Alternatively, you could take your case to trial and seek a jury verdict. Your choice will also go a long way in determining how long your claim takes to settle.
If time is a factor and the insurer’s offer is fair, you could go for the first option. However, if you feel you deserve more than is being offered, you can file a lawsuit.
A personal injury lawsuit is a whole process. It will involve steps that might take longer to complete. Nonetheless, you will likely get the compensation you deserve.
Consult a Jersey City Personal Injury Attorney Today
Trying to figure out the average time to settle a personal injury case after you have been injured can be physically and emotionally taxing. Fortunately, you don’t have to. The Law Offices of Anthony Carbone are dedicated to helping personal injury victims get the compensation they deserve.
We will evaluate your injuries and losses to create an effective plan of action. With an expert Jersey City Personal Injury Attorney by your side, your case should be settled in the best time possible.