Are you currently searching for a lawyer who can handle your personal injury claim in Winter Haven, Florida? If so, one of the many questions you’re likely asking is: how long will my personal injury claim take to resolve?
Before answering that, it’s important to point out the fact that no two personal injury cases are identical. In other words, the time it takes to settle a lawsuit can vary greatly — some claims can be resolved in only a few months, while others may take a few years.
On average, most personal injury claims last 12 to 14 months. However, as we said earlier, this can change depending on many factors. Are you wondering what these include? This personal injury attorney in Winter Haven, Florida is going to explain below.
What factors can affect the length of a personal injury case?
The seriousness of your injury plays a big role. If you have suffered a serious physical injury, it might take longer to gauge how it will affect your life. You should wait to settle your claim to ensure you are fully informed about your medical needs.
Who is at fault in an accident can also affect the length of your case. If there are no questions about who caused the accident that resulted in your injuries, your claim might be resolved faster. However, complicated situations where blame is hard to determine will naturally take longer.
Speaking of complicated situations, some personal injury cases are more complex than others. For example, medical malpractice cases are usually more complicated than car accident cases. And the more complex your case, the longer it might take your personal injury attorney in Winter Haven, Florida to resolve.
Last but certainly not least, it’s important to talk about the settlement amount. The insurance company will try everything to reduce the settlement, so cases involving larger sums of money might end up taking longer to resolve.
You should never rush to settle your personal injury claim.
It’s understandable to want to leave the memories of your accident behind and move on with your life. But rushing to settle your claim can be a mistake, because you’ll lose the right to get the compensation you need and deserve.
Once you accept a settlement, you cannot renegotiate it — even if you find out later that your injuries are more serious than you thought. As such, it’s best to wait to complete your treatment or until you understand the long-term care required for your injury before settling.
What happens during a personal injury lawsuit?
When you get in an accident, you should seek medical help immediately. This will document your injury and start your recovery process.
When you feel better, it’s time to consult with a personal injury attorney in Winter Haven, Florida. Your attorney will tell you what you must do next and deal with the insurance company on your behalf. They will collect all the facts about your case (including medical records and witness statements) and then notify the insurance company that you want compensation for your injuries.
Next comes the discovery phase. This is a formal process where both sides share information and collect evidence, which could take anywhere from a few months to a year. During this time, both parties might also negotiate a settlement without going to court. With no early settlements, the case may go to trial.
Once your case is in court, a judge or jury will determine the amount of damages you will receive. If the verdict is in your favor, you will receive the amount deemed fair by the court.
Looking for a Personal Injury Attorney in Winter Haven, Florida?
Are you ready to partner with a personal injury attorney in Winter Haven, Florida who can help you receive the compensation you are owed? If so, Tonya Stewart and her legal team at Tonya Stewart Law PA are here to help. We will diligently guide you through your case and work towards the best possible outcome. Contact us today at (863) 279-4473 to learn how we can help.