One of the most common questions we get is, “How long will my case take?” The honest answer is: it depends. Every personal injury claim is different, and several factors can impact your timeline — some within your control, others not.
Understanding what affects the process can help you set realistic expectations and stay informed every step of the way.
Factors That Influence the Timeline
Medical Treatment Duration
Your case shouldn’t be resolved until your treatment is complete or your condition has stabilized. Why? Because you need to know the full extent of your injuries — including any long-term effects or future medical needs — before accepting a settlement. Settling too soon can leave you without the resources you’ll need later.
Disputes Over Fault
If the other party denies liability, it can take time to gather and analyze the necessary evidence — like accident reports, surveillance footage, expert testimony, or witness statements. Proving fault is a critical step, and it often determines whether your case resolves quickly or stretches out.
Number of Involved Parties
Accidents involving multiple drivers, commercial vehicles, or government agencies tend to take longer. These cases often require coordination between multiple insurers, more in-depth investigations, and additional legal hurdles.
Insurance Company Responsiveness
Some insurance companies move quickly and negotiate in good faith. Others delay, minimize, or deny legitimate claims — requiring back-and-forth negotiations that can drag on. If the insurer refuses to settle fairly, filing a lawsuit might be necessary, which can extend the case by several months or more.
Litigation vs. Settlement
Many cases settle in a matter of months when liability is clear and medical treatment is straightforward. However, if your case involves high damages, disputed liability, or unwilling insurers, the process may require formal litigation. Going to court takes longer, but sometimes it’s the only path to fair compensation.
Our Approach: Transparency and Momentum
At The Illinois Hammer Injury Law Firm, we understand how difficult it is to wait while bills pile up and uncertainty lingers. That’s why we work with purpose — to resolve your case as efficiently and effectively as possible without compromising the value of your claim.
From the start, we’ll:
- Set realistic expectations based on the details of your case
- Keep you updated at every key milestone
- Push back against delays and lowball tactics
- Only recommend settling when it’s in your best interest
The truth is, a fast settlement isn’t always a fair one. Our goal is to secure the best possible result — not just the fastest.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re recovering from an injury and wondering how long it might take to get the results you need, contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll explain the process, review your options, and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
