How Long Will My California Personal Injury Claim Take To Settle?

 Posted on December 30, 2025 in Personal Injury

A California personal injury claim can take a few months to over a year to settle. The timeline depends on several factors, including the type of injury, the length of medical treatment, and whether the insurance company disputes fault. Some cases resolve quickly. Others take longer because important details must be fully developed first. If you were injured and want a clearer idea of timing, our Glendale, CA personal injury lawyers can help explain what to expect based on your situation.

What Factors Affect How Long a Personal Injury Claim Takes to Settle?

No two injury cases move at the exact same pace. Insurance companies and courts look at the full picture before money changes hands. Several issues can slow down or speed up the process. Some factors that affect the timing of a settlement include:

• How serious the injuries are and how long treatment lasts

• Whether fault is clear or disputed

• The amount and quality of medical documentation available

• How willing the insurance company is to negotiate

Why Do Some Personal Injury Claims Take Longer Than Others?

More complex cases almost always take longer. Serious injuries require more records, more review, and sometimes expert input. Insurance companies also tend to scrutinize higher-value claims more closely.

When fault is disputed, the process often takes longer than expected. Insurance companies may question how the accident occurred or suggest that your injuries came from another cause. These are common tactics they use to avoid hefty payouts. These arguments usually lead to more investigation before any meaningful settlement talks can begin.

Delays can also happen for less obvious reasons. Insurance companies often move at their own pace. Reviews, approvals, and repeated follow-ups can stretch the timeline, even when liability seems clear.

Does Medical Treatment Duration Affect Settlement Time?

Medical treatment plays a major role in settlement timing. Your claim value depends heavily on medical records. These records show the type of injury, the treatment required, and how long recovery takes.

If treatment is ongoing, it is difficult to know the full value of the claim. Future care, lasting pain, or limits on daily activities may not be clear yet. Waiting until treatment is complete helps ensure the settlement reflects the full impact of the injury. However, if you suffered injuries that require long-term care, an experienced attorney can help you assess the value of that care and include it in your claim.

Can Filing a Lawsuit Speed Up or Slow Down a Settlement?

Filing a lawsuit does not mean your case will go to trial. Many cases still settle after a lawsuit is filed. However, litigation adds steps that take time. You’ll deal with elements like discovery and court scheduling that directly impact the timeline of your case.

California law sets deadlines for filing injury lawsuits. Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the date of injury. This deadline matters because waiting too long can limit leverage or end the case entirely.

In some situations, the pressure of litigation encourages meaningful settlement talks. In others, it extends the timeline.

What Can You Do To Avoid Unnecessary Delays in a Personal Injury Case?

You cannot control everything, but there are steps you can take that might help keep a claim moving forward. Following medical advice and attending appointments creates clear records. Promptly providing documents and information also helps.

It’s important to be realistic. A fast settlement is not always a fair one. Taking the time to document injuries properly often leads to better outcomes.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our LA County, CA Personal Injury Attorneys

At Tahmazian Law Firm, P.C., we advocate for our clients’ right to compensation when they’ve been harmed by someone else’s actions. Our attorneys bring over 30 years of legal experience to personal injury cases and have helped recover over $100 million in favorable verdicts and settlements for our clients. You can count on us to push back if the insurance company delays or undervalues your case.

If you were injured and have questions about your claim, call 818-242-8201 to schedule your free consultation with our Glendale, CA personal injury lawyers today.