When it comes to court cases, there are a plethora of questions that are involved. A personal injury case specifically can take a toll on an individual both mentally and physically. One of the most common and widely misunderstood concepts is the time it takes for a personal injury case to be settled. While some lawyers guarantee a rough estimate, there is no way to determine an across the board answer. Each individual case comes with unique parameters. Because of this, the time surrounding your case is varying as well.
In the state of Virginia, there are different factors that determine a case’s length. If you are in need of a personal injury lawyer in the Virginia area, consider these four factors that determine the length of your case.
- The Virginia Statute of Limitations
When the insurance company cannot decide on a resolution, or, if they don’t see the case as being valid, they may leave the attorneys in limbo. When this occurs, the case is labeled in litigation. Then, the case must go to trial to be resolved. In Virginia, the litigation process is limited to two years. This could extend a personal injury case beyond the allotted time, so be sure to push for a resolution if that time is drawing near.
- Insurance Reps Won’t Settle
The insurance companies are trying to hold on to every penny they can. Therefore, they will go back and forth with attorneys in order to reach the smallest settlement possible. If the insurance adjuster isn’t making the appropriate steps towards reaching a settlement, this could inhibit the personal injury process from continuing.
- Your Injury Needs Evaluation
In order for the lawyers and insurance companies to have accurate information, the extent of your injuries must be discovered. This involves evaluating the injury at hand. Doctors and other practitioners must provide adequate proof of injury to back up the client’s claim. Clients also have to wait for their injuries to heal so that the doctor can determine if the effects are permanent or not. Some injuries can take a long time to resolve themselves. This waiting period could extend the case longer than normal.
- The Facts are Hidden
When a case is under the discovery time period, the lawyer involved is trying to gather as much information about the case as possible. This involves finding out more information about the opposing party, the parameters surrounding the incident and more. There may be delays in the information the lawyer is allowed to receive. There may also be hiccups or challenges that prevent the lawyer from receiving the facts. This process alone can draw the personal injury case out longer than expected.
Much like any case involving lawyers or courtrooms, patience is required. If a client wishes to receive the best possible settlement, they need to be willing to wait for the details to reveal themselves. Although frustrating, it is better in the long run to make sure every inch is covered. When it comes to hiring the right personal injury lawyer, it is best to go with someone who is dedicated to solving your case. This, along with sheer patience, will get you through the extended waiting period.
