There are nearly 5 million auto accidents in the United States every year that warrant medical attention for injuries. It is up to the victims to seek compensation for expenses related to their medical care, loss of wages or salary, and pain and suffering. This is a complex legal process that can take many months and sometimes years.
If you are injured in a car accident in Birmingham, AL, you may be wondering, “How long does a car accident settlement take?” The answer is that it depends on several factors which are unique to every case.
The good news is that once you understand what those variables are, you will have a better sense of what to expect. The information below goes over what these factors are and how they might impact your case. Keep reading to find out more.
Whether the Case Goes to Court
Whether your case goes to court has a lot to do with the settlement timeline. An out-of-court settlement often comes before any courtroom activities have taken place. This is where the two parties agree on the level of “damages” or a settlement amount.
These include “compensatory” and “punitive damages.” As the name suggests, “compensatory damages” aim to “compensate” the plaintiff for the harm they suffered. This can include payment for medical bills, loss of wages, and pain and suffering associated with the injury.
Punitive damages are intended to punish an entity for particularly negligent behavior. This might include a company that knowingly manufactures a defective product or a hospital with a history of misdiagnosis.
Cases that go to court take much longer. The two sides must present evidence to a judge or jury. There is scheduling to accommodate the judge and lawyer’s availability.
Besides the trial itself, lawyers must have time for preparation. They collect and analyze evidence, interview witnesses, and ready their case.
There also are alternatives to settling out of court or “going the distance.” For instance, after hearing certain evidence or witness testimony at trial, one party might decide to settle in the middle of the trial.
The Complexity of the Case
Another big factor that impacts answers to “How long does a car accident settlement take?” is the complexity of your case. This includes the number of defendants, expert witnesses, and the nature of the evidence. For instance, if an auto accident is pretty straightforward, with several witnesses corroborating a story, the case may be pretty cut and dry.
On the other hand, if the case involves manufacturing defects that require testimony by experts, then a case could take much longer. Likewise, if the trial demands medical professionals to validate evidence, things could take longer. A knowledgeable and experienced attorney can help you know from the outset what kind of case you are looking at.
Get More Answers to ”How Long Does a Car Accident Settlement Take?”
Now that you know some of the factors that go into answering “How long does a car accident settlement take?” you can determine what to expect from your case. The most important thing to remember is that getting justice for the wrongs you have suffered is priority number one, no matter how long that takes.
At Collins Law, we are straightforward with all our clients and will work hard to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family. Reach out to us today for a free case assessment and consultation.