When you’re recovering from an injury caused by someone else’s negligence, one of the first questions you may ask is, How long does a personal injury settlement take? The uncertainty surrounding your recovery can be overwhelming, especially if medical bills are piling up and an injury disrupts your ability to work.
At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we’ve guided countless clients in New Jersey through the personal injury claims process. Below, we break down the timeline, explain the key steps, and help you understand why some settlements take longer than others.
When you’re recovering from someone else’s negligence, waiting for compensation can feel like standing still. In New Jersey, a straightforward claim might wrap up in a few months—but when injuries are complex or fault is disputed, the process can stretch to a year or more.
No One-Size-Fits-All Timeline
There’s no simple answer to how long personal injury claims take. Some cases resolve in a few months, while others may take a year or more. Several factors influence this timeline:
- Severity of injuries and length of recovery,
- Clarity of fault and liability,
- Cooperation from insurance companies,
- Complexity of the case, and
- Whether litigation is necessary.
Understanding these elements can help you set realistic expectations and make informed choices throughout your case.
Key Stages in a Personal Injury Claim
How long do personal injury claims take? The timeline for resolving your claim depends heavily on the steps involved in building and negotiating the case. Below is a breakdown of each stage.
1. Medical Treatment and Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
Before settlement discussions begin, your condition must stabilize. Doctors refer to this point as Maximum Medical Improvement, or MMI. Reaching MMI ensures that the full scope of your medical needs and future expenses can be evaluated appropriately.
Settling before reaching MMI may result in undercompensation for ongoing care. We advise clients to wait until doctors can make a complete prognosis before negotiating.
2. Evidence Collection and Case Development
Once treatment is underway, your attorney begins compiling key evidence, including:
- Medical records and bills,
- Police or accident reports,
- Photos and video footage (if available),
- Witness statements, and
- Expert evaluations (medical, accident reconstruction, etc.).
This phase may last several weeks, depending on the volume and complexity of records. Well-documented evidence helps strengthen your claim and streamline negotiations.
3. Demand Letter and Settlement Negotiations
Once damages are calculated, your lawyer submits a demand letter to the at-fault party’s insurance provider. This letter outlines liability, damages, and the amount sought.
Some insurance companies respond within weeks; others delay, request additional records, or offer low settlements. Negotiation may take several months or longer, depending on the insurer’s tactics and case complexity.
4. Filing a Lawsuit (If Needed)
Your attorney may file a personal injury lawsuit if a fair settlement cannot be reached. You may wonder, How long does a personal injury lawsuit take to settle?
Once litigation begins, resolution may take 12 to 24 months. Factors include:
- Court scheduling,
- Discovery (interrogatories, depositions, expert reports),
- Pre-trial motions, and
- Mediation or trial.
Most cases still settle before reaching trial, but filing a lawsuit sends a strong message that you are serious about obtaining full compensation.
What Factors Can Delay a Personal Injury Settlement?
Personal injury claims can face delays for many reasons. Common causes include:
- Disputed liability. If there is a question of who is at fault, additional investigation or expert input may be required.
- Multiple parties. Multi-vehicle crashes or shared premises liability often involve coordination across several insurers.
- Severe or long-term injuries. Catastrophic cases require extensive medical documentation, and doctors may need more time to project long-term care needs before settlement talks can proceed.
- Uncooperative insurers. Some companies stall negotiations to pressure injured parties into settling for less.
A strategic and experienced legal team can help quickly anticipate and address these issues.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Personal Injury Claim Without a Lawsuit?
The average resolution time for claims that don’t go to court is three to nine months.
That estimate assumes:
- Liability is clearly established,
- Medical care is complete,
- Documentation is promptly submitted, and
- The insurance company responds in good faith.
Simple claims may resolve more quickly, but a rushed settlement can result in accepting less than your case is worth. At Glugeth & Pierguidi, we balance efficiency with the need to secure fair and lasting results.
Is It Worth Waiting for a Higher Settlement?
Often, yes. Insurers frequently offer early settlements far below what a case may truly be worth. While a quick check may seem appealing, it rarely accounts for future surgery, rehabilitation, or wage loss.
By waiting until your claim is fully developed, you can pursue a settlement that reflects your long-term medical and financial needs. A personal injury attorney helps you calculate fair value and resist pressure to accept less than you deserve.
Talk to a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
How long does a personal injury settlement take in your situation? At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we’ll help you understand the specific timeline for your case and push for the outcome you deserve.
We provide trusted legal advice, aggressive advocacy, and personal attention from start to finish. Contact our team today by calling or reaching out online for a free consultation with a New Jersey personal injury attorney. Let us take the legal pressure off your shoulders while you focus on healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does an Injury Lawsuit Take in New Jersey?
If your case proceeds to litigation, it generally takes 12 to 24 months from the date of filing to resolution. The timing depends on court availability, discovery timelines, and whether the case settles before trial. The litigation process also involves detailed preparation to present a strong case in court, which adds to the timeline.
How Long Does it Take to Settle a Personal Injury Claim After a Demand Letter?
On average, reaching a settlement after sending a demand letter takes one to three months, assuming negotiations remain active and the insurer cooperates. If delays occur, your attorney may take further legal action to maintain pressure on the insurer.
Can I Speed Up the Settlement Process?
Yes, but only to an extent. Hiring an experienced lawyer early, submitting all medical documentation promptly, and responding to requests quickly can help. However, you should never rush to settle before fully understanding the scope of your injuries. Protecting your long-term interests is more important than speed.
David Pierguidi and Jared Glugeth understand how hard it may be for you and your family following an accident resulting from someone’s negligent actions. Get the medical treatment you need right away and then call our law firm at any time of day for answers to your questions.
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