How Long Will My Personal Injury Case Take to Settle in California?

When you’ve been injured in an accident, one of the most pressing questions is: How long will it take to settle my personal injury case? While some cases resolve in a matter of weeks, others may take months—or even years. Understanding the factors that influence the timeline can help set realistic expectations and ensure you’re taking the right steps toward a full financial recovery.

Average Timeline for a Personal Injury Case in California

While no two cases are alike, a typical personal injury claim in California may take anywhere from 3 months to over 2 years to fully resolve. The timeframe largely depends on whether the case is settled out of court or goes to trial.

1. Medical Treatment & Recovery Time (Weeks to Months)

Most attorneys will recommend waiting until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI) before settling. This ensures all damages—especially future medical costs—are properly valued.

2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering (1–3 Months)

This phase includes collecting:

Police reports
Medical records
Witness statements
Photos/video of the accident

3. Filing the Claim and Demand Letter (2–6 Weeks)

Once the evidence is compiled, a demand letter is sent to the insurance company outlining the case, liability, and requested compensation.

4. Negotiation Phase (1–3 Months)

Insurance companies may respond with a low offer, triggering a negotiation process. If both parties agree on a fair number, the case settles.

5. Litigation & Trial (If Necessary) (1–2 Years)

If no settlement is reached, your attorney may file a lawsuit. Pre-trial discovery, motion practice, mediation, and potential trial dates can add months—or years—to the case.