Most car accident lawsuits in Tennessee take just a matter of weeks or months, though some can take longer if the case goes to trial. However, it’s important to keep in mind that most car accident cases do not make it to court in the first place and instead are resolved through out-of-court settlement negotiations.
That said, filing a lawsuit may be in your best interest in some cases (such as if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount). Car accident claims that require filing a lawsuit will generally take more time to resolve, but that may be the only way to get the full amount of compensation you’re entitled to.
Factors That Affect the Timeline of a Car Accident Lawsuit
There’s no set schedule for how long a car accident case will last, but several key factors can speed up or delay the process. Factors to keep in mind include:
- Severity of injuries: Serious or long-term injuries often extend the process because doctors must determine the full impact before damages can be calculated.
- Liability disputes: If there’s disagreement over who caused the crash, more investigation and expert analysis may be necessary.
- Insurance company cooperation: Some insurers drag out negotiations in hopes that victims will accept a lower offer.
- Amount of damages: High-value claims often take longer because they involve more evidence and expert testimony.
- Court backlog: If your case goes to trial, scheduling depends on the availability of the court in your county.
Your car accident attorney can help manage these factors, gather evidence efficiently, and push for progress if the other side tries to delay your case.
The Typical Legal Process in Tennessee Car Accident Claims
Most Tennessee car accident lawsuits follow a similar pattern, though the specific timeline can vary from case to case. The process generally includes:
- Investigation and claim filing: Your lawyer will collect medical records and other evidence to build your case.
- Negotiation: Most cases settle before going to court through discussions with the insurance company.
- Filing the lawsuit: If a fair settlement isn’t reached, your lawyer will file a lawsuit within the one-year statute of limitations.
- Discovery: Both sides exchange information and take depositions to prepare for trial.
- Mediation or settlement conferences: Judges often encourage parties to settle before trial.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your attorney will present your case in court before a judge or jury.
Each step can take time, but your lawyer’s experience can play a big role in keeping things moving smoothly.
Set Up a Free Consultation With an Experienced Tennessee Car Accident Lawyer
If you were hurt in a car accident, don’t wait to get answers about your legal options. A Tennessee car accident lawyer can review the facts of your case and help you work toward a maximum financial recovery, whether that means negotiating a settlement or taking your case to court.
Schedule a free consultation with Woodard Injury Law today to learn how long your lawsuit might take and what steps you can take to protect your claim from unnecessary delays.