How Long Does a Personal Injury Case Take to Resolve?

December 10, 2025

Navigating the Timeline of a Personal Injury Case

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Orange County, one of the first questions you might have is, “How long will it take to resolve my personal injury case?” At Aitken Aitken Cohn, we know that the aftermath of an injury can be stressful, and the uncertainty of a legal process can add to that burden. While every case is unique, understanding the factors that influence the timeline can help you feel more prepared and confident as you seek justice.

In this guide, we’ll explain the typical stages of a personal injury case, the factors that can speed up or delay resolution, and how our experienced team can help you move forward efficiently. Whether you’ve been in a car accident, slip and fall, or another incident, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Typical Stages of a Personal Injury Case

Personal injury cases generally follow a series of steps, each of which contributes to the overall timeline. Here’s a breakdown of the key stages:

1. Initial Consultation and Investigation

The process begins when you contact a personal injury attorney. During your free consultation with Aitken Aitken Cohn, we’ll evaluate your case, discuss your injuries, and gather initial details. This stage typically takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on how quickly we can collect essential information, such as:

  • Medical records documenting your injuries
  • Accident reports from law enforcement
  • Witness statements
  • Photos or videos of the accident scene

A thorough investigation is critical to building a strong case, so taking the time to gather evidence is well worth it.

2. Medical Treatment and Recovery

Your health is the top priority. Before your case can move forward, you’ll need to reach maximum medical improvement (MMI), which is when your condition stabilizes, and your doctor can assess the full extent of your injuries. This stage can take anywhere from a few weeks for minor injuries to several months or even years for severe cases, such as those involving surgeries or long-term rehabilitation.

Waiting until you’ve reached MMI ensures that your claim includes all current and future medical costs, preventing you from settling too early for less than you deserve.

3. Filing the Claim and Negotiations

Once we have a clear picture of your damages, we’ll file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. This stage involves submitting a demand letter outlining your injuries, losses, and the compensation you’re seeking. Negotiations with the insurance company can take a few weeks to several months, depending on:

  • The complexity of your case
  • The insurance company’s willingness to offer a fair settlement
  • The strength of the evidence supporting your claim

Many cases settle during this phase, but if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount, we may recommend moving to the next stage.

4. Filing a Lawsuit (If Necessary)

If negotiations don’t result in a fair settlement, we may file a lawsuit on your behalf. In California, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the date of the injury, so it’s important to act promptly. After filing, the discovery phase begins, where both sides exchange information and evidence. This can take six months to a year, depending on the case’s complexity.

5. Trial

Most personal injury cases settle before reaching trial, but if a trial is necessary, it can extend the timeline significantly. Scheduling a trial in Orange County courts can take several months, and the trial itself may last days or weeks. From start to finish, cases that go to trial often take one to three years to resolve, though some may take longer.

Factors That Affect the Timeline

Several factors can influence how long your personal injury case takes to resolve. Understanding these can help set realistic expectations:

  • Severity of Injuries: Cases involving serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage, often take longer because they require extensive medical documentation and expert testimony.
  • Liability Disputes: If the at-fault party denies responsibility or multiple parties are involved, resolving liability can delay the process.
  • Insurance Company Tactics: Some insurance companies use delaying tactics to pressure you into accepting a low settlement. Our team knows how to counter these strategies effectively.
  • Court Schedules: If your case goes to trial, court availability in Orange County can impact the timeline.
  • Settlement Negotiations: Cases with clear liability and well-documented damages often settle faster, while complex cases may require more time.

At Aitken Aitken Cohn, we work diligently to move your case forward while ensuring no detail is overlooked. Our proven results demonstrate our commitment to achieving timely and fair outcomes for our clients.

Average Timelines for Common Personal Injury Cases

While every case is different, here are some general timelines for common personal injury cases in Orange County:

  • Minor Car Accidents: Cases with minor injuries and clear liability may settle in 3–6 months if medical treatment is completed quickly.
  • Serious Injuries: Cases involving surgeries, long-term rehabilitation, or disputed liability may take 1–2 years to resolve, especially if a lawsuit is filed.
  • Wrongful Death Claims: These cases are often complex and may take 1–3 years, particularly if they go to trial.
  • Slip and Fall Cases: Depending on the evidence and the property owner’s response, these cases typically take 6 months to 2 years.

These are just estimates, and your case’s timeline will depend on its unique circumstances. We’ll keep you informed at every stage so you know what to expect.

Why Choose Aitken Aitken Cohn?

At Aitken Aitken Cohn, we understand that waiting for your case to resolve can be frustrating, especially when you’re dealing with medical bills and lost income. Our experienced team is dedicated to making the process as smooth and efficient as possible. Here’s why Orange County clients trust us:

  • Local Expertise: We know the Orange County legal system, from local courts to insurance companies, giving us an advantage in moving your case forward.
  • Proven Success: We’ve secured millions of dollars for clients in personal injury cases. Explore our results to see our track record.
  • Client-Centered Approach: We keep you updated, answer your questions, and tailor our strategy to your needs.
  • No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Tips to Help Speed Up Your Case

While some factors are beyond your control, there are steps you can take to help your case move more quickly:

  1. Seek Medical Care Promptly: Getting treatment right away creates a clear record of your injuries and helps establish their connection to the accident.
  2. Keep Detailed Records: Save all medical bills, receipts, and correspondence related to your injury. This documentation strengthens your case and speeds up negotiations.
  3. Avoid Social Media: Insurance companies may monitor your social media for posts that could undermine your claim. Be cautious about what you share online.
  4. Hire an Attorney Early: The sooner you contact us, the faster we can start building your case and gathering evidence.

Contact Aitken Aitken Cohn Today

If you’ve been injured in Orange County, don’t wait to seek the compensation you deserve. The sooner you act, the stronger your case can be. At Aitken Aitken Cohn, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process, from investigation to resolution, with compassion and expertise.

Time is critical—California’s statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of your injury to file a claim in most cases. Reach out to us today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you understand how long it might take to resolve. Let us fight for the justice you deserve.