14: How Long Will My Case Take After a Car Crash?
- SKWalkerLaw
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
After a car crash, one of the most common questions we hear is: “How long is this going to take?”
It’s a fair concern. You’re dealing with injuries, bills, and uncertainty—and you want to know when you’ll get closure.
While every case is different, here’s a breakdown of the typical timeline and what can affect how long your case takes.
🕒 The Short Answer: It Depends
Some cases settle in a few months. Others take a year or more—especially if they go to trial. The timeline depends on:
The severity of your injuries
How long your medical treatment lasts
Whether liability is disputed
The insurance company’s cooperation
Whether a lawsuit is filed
Let’s walk through the typical stages.
📆 Stage 1: Medical Treatment After a Car Crash (1–6+ months)
Before we can settle your case, we need to understand the full extent of your injuries. That means waiting until:
You’ve completed treatment, or
Your doctors can predict your long-term needs
This stage is crucial for calculating the true value of your claim.
📄 Stage 2: Investigation & Demand After a Car Crash (1–2 months)
Once your condition stabilizes, we:
Gather medical records and bills
Collect evidence (photos, witness statements, police reports)
Draft and send a demand letter to the insurance company
This letter outlines your injuries, damages, and the compensation you’re seeking.
💬 Stage 3: Negotiation After a Car Crash (1–3 months)
The insurance company may:
Accept the demand
Make a counteroffer
Deny the claim
We negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair settlement. If they refuse to be reasonable, we prepare to file a lawsuit.
⚖️ Stage 4: Filing a Lawsuit After a Car Crash (6–18+ months)
If a lawsuit is necessary, the timeline extends. This stage includes:
Filing the complaint
Discovery (exchanging evidence, depositions)
Mediation or settlement talks
Trial (if no settlement is reached)
Most cases settle before trial—but we’re always ready to go the distance.
⏳ What Can Delay a Case?
Ongoing medical treatment
Disputes over fault
Uncooperative insurance companies
Court scheduling delays
We work to move your case forward efficiently while protecting your right to full compensation.
✅ Bottom Line
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but we’ll keep you informed every step of the way. At SK Walker Law, LLC, we balance speed with strategy—never rushing to settle for less than you deserve.
📞 Let’s Talk About Your Timeline
Want to know how long your case might take? Schedule a free consultation today. We’ll review your situation and give you a realistic timeline—so you can plan ahead with confidence.