It is not possible to predict with certainty how long it will take to resolve your Orlando truck accident case. Every claim is unique, with some wrapping up fairly quickly and others taking years to resolve. The timeline will depend on various factors, including your injuries’ severity, the at-fault party’s acceptance or denial of responsibility, and the insurance company’s willingness to negotiate.
While an Orlando truck accident lawyer can often settle these cases relatively quickly, some factors are out of their control. In any case, a personal injury attorney can help avoid unnecessary delays and move the case along as fast as reasonably possible.
Settling vs. Litigation: How Long Will an Orlando Truck Crash Case Take?
Many factors can impact the length of a truck accident case in Orlando, but the most important one is whether the parties settle or take the case to trial. Settlements can happen at any point, with some occurring within a few weeks of first contact between the parties.
The amount of time to settle truck accident claims can vary. When there is little doubt who is responsible for a truck accident, the parties might be able to settle within a matter of weeks. In other cases, the process will take longer.
Of course, not all truck accident cases settle. If the trucking company refuses to accept responsibility for an accident, their insurance company might refuse to make a settlement offer. When that happens, a trial may be the only option for securing fair compensation.
It can take years for a truck accident injury claim to go to trial. There are multiple stages in that process, some of which can involve significant delays. Having an Orlando personal injury lawyer managing your case could improve the chances of avoiding these interruptions.
Understanding the Truck Accident Injury Case Timeline Can Help
While there is no set timeline for an Orlando truck accident case, each personal injury claim follows the same general timeline. At any point, the case could conclude with a fair settlement agreement. Understanding this timeline can be useful for anyone intending to resolve their injury claim.
Gathering Evidence
First, your truck accident injury lawyer must gather evidence. This process can take time, especially if they must enlist the help of accident reconstruction specialists and other experts. Relevant evidence in your truck accident claim may include:
- Police reports
- Truck black box data
- Trucking company employment records
- Accident scene photos and video footage
- Medical records
- Testimony from medical professionals
- Accident reconstruction reports
Evidence collection should not be rushed, as the more evidence you have to support your claim, the more likely you are to receive a fair settlement that covers all your damages.
Settlement Demand Letter
Not every motor vehicle accident case results in a personal injury lawsuit, much less goes to trial. Orlando truck crash attorneys typically first send a demand letter to the liable party’s insurance carrier in an effort to resolve a case promptly.
These letters explain why the injured party believes they are entitled to damages from the trucking company, truck driver, or other negligent party. Some settlements result directly from this letter.
Discovery Process
One of the most important parts of a truck accident lawsuit—and the earliest stage after the complaints are filed and answered—is discovery. This is the phase where both parties exchange the evidence they would use at trial. Settlements are especially common at the end of this phase, given that both sides have a clear picture of the strength of the plaintiff’s case.
Personal Injury Trial
The vast majority of truck accident injury cases in Orlando settle long before they go to trial. Even those cases that result in litigation usually settle before the scheduled court date. Only the most contentious cases where settlement is not an option will result in a trial. That said, most attorneys will continue pushing for a settlement until the last possible moment.
How Can You Speed Up the Truck Accident Settlement Process?
There is no requirement to hire a truck accident lawyer to help with your case, but handing your case on your own is not recommended. From dealing with legal deadlines to determining the cause of the crash, having an attorney to guide you can increase your odds of a favorable outcome.
While your attorney cannot necessarily make the process go faster, they can take steps to avoid delays and move your case forward as quickly as possible. This is important, as you need compensation to cover your damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
Some of the steps you and your lawyer can take to keep your case moving include the following:
Comply With All Legal Deadlines
Violating the statute of limitations could cost you any chance to recover financial compensation in your case. According to Florida Statutes § 95.11, you generally have only two years to file your lawsuit following a truck accident in Orlando.
Avoid Unnecessary Delays
The legal process can take time, but some delays are completely avoidable. For example, some cases languish during the discovery phase after both parties have exchanged all relevant information. If an Orlando truck accident attorney represents you, they can ensure your case keeps moving.
Remain Patient
Above all, it is important to remain patient throughout this process. Despite your best efforts, it will take time to resolve your case and get the favorable outcome you deserve. Some steps cannot be rushed, and settlements require both sides to be willing to make a deal. Staying patient can help you avoid accepting an unreasonable settlement offer or making a mistake that will harm your case.
An Orlando Attorney Can Help With Your Truck Accident Case
If you have been hurt in a truck accident, it is natural to wonder how long it might take to settle your case. The timeline depends on many factors, but having the support of an experienced attorney can help.
An Orlando attorney from the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine is ready to serve as your advocate in the aftermath of a truck accident. Our legal team has spent the last 20 years fighting for fair compensation for the injured, and we can do the same for you. Contact our personal injury law firm today for a free initial consultation.
