After a car crash, you want answers. You want your car fixed, medical bills paid, and peace of mind. But most of all, you want to know: how long will this take?
The truth is, every case is different. But knowing the basic timeline can help you set clear expectations. With the help of an experienced car accident lawyer in Chicago, you can move through each step faster and avoid costly mistakes.
Step 1: Right After the Accident (Days 1–7)
This is when you gather evidence and get medical help. It’s also when you should report the crash to your insurance company.
- Get a copy of the police report
- Take photos of the scene, damage, and injuries
- Get checked out by a doctor—even if you feel okay
If the crash was serious, call a lawyer right away. The sooner they get involved, the better they can protect your claim.
Step 2: Medical Treatment and Investigation (Weeks to Months)
You need to reach a point of maximum medical improvement before settling. That means you’re either fully recovered, or your doctor says you’ve healed as much as possible.
During this time, your lawyer will:
- Collect medical records
- Gather repair bills
- Interview witnesses
- Review insurance policies
This step can take weeks or months, depending on the severity of your injuries.
Step 3: Sending a Demand Letter (Weeks 8–20+)
Once your treatment ends or stabilizes, your lawyer sends a demand letter to the insurance company. This letter outlines your injuries, costs, and how much compensation you’re seeking.
The insurance company usually takes 30 days to respond. Sometimes they ask for more details or deny the claim outright. This can delay the process.
Step 4: Negotiation (1–3 Months)
After the first offer, your lawyer will negotiate for a fair settlement. Most cases settle at this stage.
But insurance companies don’t always play fair. They may try to lowball you. If that happens, your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit.
Step 5: Filing a Lawsuit (Several Months to Over a Year)
If your case goes to court, things slow down. Here’s why:
- The court sets deadlines for each stage
- Both sides exchange information (called “discovery”)
- Depositions and expert reviews take time
Still, most lawsuits settle before reaching trial.
Step 6: Trial (Rare but Possible)
If no agreement is reached, your case may go to trial. This is rare but sometimes necessary for serious injuries or disputed liability.
Trials can take days or weeks. After that, the judge or jury makes a decision.
Common Reasons for Delays
- Severe or ongoing medical treatment
- Disagreements over fault
- Missing documents or evidence
- Insurance company delays
- Court backlog
A skilled car accident lawyer in Chicago helps you avoid these issues and keeps your case moving.
So how long does a car accident claim take? It depends on your injuries, the facts, and the people involved. Some claims settle in a few months. Others take over a year.
No matter what, don’t rush the process. A fast settlement may not cover all your needs. Focus on healing, and let your lawyer handle the rest.
If you’ve been hurt in a crash, don’t wait. Talk to a lawyer who can explain your options and fight for what you deserve.
