How Long Does It Take to Obtain Personal Injury Compensation?

If an individual sustains an injury that wasn't their fault, they could be eligible to claim personal injury compensation. However, having the legal right to compensation and actually obtaining it are two very different things. For both lawyers and clients, the length of time it can take to secure financial compensation is a frustrating aspect of the law. 

If you've been hurt and you're thinking of taking legal action, it's important to know what to expect. By learning more about how the process works and how long it can take to access personal injury compensation, you can potentially accelerate the process. 

Starting Your Claim

As you might expect, the sooner your claim gets underway, the sooner you can obtain compensation for your injuries. No-one expects clients to begin taking legal action from their hospital beds but there are time limits imposed on personal injury claims, so you won't be able to wait forever either. Of course, if you're eager to obtain compensation as quickly as possible, you'll be keen to get your claim started swiftly. 

Accepting a Settlement Offer

If the person or company responsible for your injuries offers you a settlement, this could be a viable way of obtaining compensation more quickly than if you go to court. However, the settlement figure you're offered could be far less than you deserve and far less than you'd be awarded by a court. 

When you work with a well-known personal injury law firm, like The Henry Law Firm, you can discuss potential settlement figures with your attorney to determine whether a proposed offer is worth taking. In some instances, clients may prefer to avoid the uncertainty and delays associated with going to trial in favor of settling a case. 

In addition to this, accepting a settlement may mean that you're more likely to receive your compensation in a timely manner. When a settlement is agreed, you can include a clause that the person or organization that's liable will be required to transfer the funds by a specific date. Furthermore, a settlement agreement can prevent the other party from subsequently appealing or claiming bankruptcy in an attempt to avoid paying you compensation. 

Taking a Claim to Court

Many people are wary about going to court, but you shouldn't be. If a proposed settlement figure doesn't reflect the severity or extent of your injuries, or you simply don't want to settle, you have the option to litigate. If the court decides in your favor, they'll also determine how much compensation you should receive. 

Although taking a claim to court can mean that you'll wait a little longer to receive your compensation, it can be worth the delay in order to secure a fair amount of compensation. What's more - your legal team will do everything in their power to ensure the case is heard in a timely manner. 

Sustaining an injury can be traumatic in any circumstances but the long-term effects of physical harm, such as emotional distress, loss of income, or a change in your mobility can be difficult to adjust to. While making a claim won't directly heal your injuries, obtaining personal injury compensation can help to ensure that you won't suffer damaging financial consequences due to an accident that wasn't your fault. 

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