How long does a personal injury case take to settle?

The timeline for a personal injury case can vary widely. A straightforward car accident claim might settle in a few months, while a complex case involving severe injuries or disputed liability could take a year or longer – especially if it goes to trial. In our experience serving clients in San Bernardino County, many cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it may go to court to ensure we are ready to fight for you as long as it takes to achieve a fair result.

What is the average settlement for a car accident claim?

There is no one-size-fits-all settlement amount for a car accident claim. Settlement values depend on several factors, including the severity of injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Minor accidents might settle for tens of thousands of dollars, whereas catastrophic injury cases can result in six- or seven-figure settlements. Our firm has recovered anywhere from $100,000 to millions of dollars for car accident victims. We focus on maximizing your compensation based on the unique details of your case.

What should I do after a car accident?

If you’re involved in a car accident, first ensure safety and call 911 to report any injuries. Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor, as some symptoms can appear later. Document the scene by taking photos and gathering contact information from other drivers and witnesses. Notify your insurance company of the accident, but avoid giving a detailed statement until you speak with an attorney. It’s wise to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible – our firm can guide you through the process, communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, and help preserve crucial evidence for your claim.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in California?

In California, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims – including car accidents – is two years from the date of the injury. This means you generally have up to two years to file a lawsuit if you wish to pursue compensation, or you may lose your right to recover damages. However, there are exceptions: for example, claims against a government agency often require a notice of claim to be filed within 6 months. Because legal deadlines can vary, it’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after an injury. We ensure all filings are completed timely so our clients’ rights are protected.

The Statute of Limitations in Accident Claims – Rancho Cucamonga, CA

When it comes to personal injury cases, time is of the essence. As someone deeply involved in the legal world, I want to shed light on a critical aspect of accident claims – the statute of limitations. At The Law Offices of Justin H. King in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, we know that navigating the legal system can be daunting. Let’s explore why understanding the timeframe for filing a lawsuit is paramount in securing your rights and seeking compensation.

The Statute of Limitations Demystified

The statute of limitations is a legal concept that sets a strict timeframe within which a lawsuit must be filed. It varies depending on the type of case and jurisdiction. In personal injury cases, including accidents, understanding the applicable statute of limitations is crucial. Here’s why:

1. Preservation of Evidence

Over time, evidence can degrade, witnesses can forget crucial details, and documents may be lost. Initiating legal proceedings promptly ensures that evidence is preserved and remains robust.

2. Witness Availability

Key witnesses, such as accident bystanders or medical professionals, may relocate or become harder to reach as time goes by. Initiating a lawsuit early increases the likelihood of securing their testimony.

3. Legal Rights Protection

The statute of limitations is in place to protect both plaintiffs and defendants. It ensures that claims are brought forward within a reasonable timeframe, allowing for a fair legal process.

Why Timing Matters

Personal injury cases encompass a wide range of accidents, including motor vehicle collisions, slip and falls, and workplace injuries. The specific statute of limitations can vary based on the type of accident and jurisdiction. Here’s a general idea of why timing is paramount:

1. Gathering Evidence

After an accident, there’s a critical period during which evidence can be collected and assessed. This includes accident scene investigations, medical records, and eyewitness testimonies. Waiting too long can hinder this process.

2. Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often play a significant role in personal injury claims. Initiating the legal process early can lead to more effective negotiations with insurers, potentially expediting settlements.

3. Legal Strategy Development

Your attorney needs time to build a strong case. This involves conducting investigations, consulting with experts, and crafting a legal strategy tailored to your specific situation. Delaying the process can limit your legal options.

Why Choose a Personal Injury Attorney

While it’s possible to represent yourself in a personal injury case, the complexity of legal procedures and the stakes involved make it advisable to seek professional legal counsel. Here’s why hiring an attorney can be a game-changer:

1. Legal Expertise

Attorneys specialize in personal injury law and have a deep understanding of the statute of limitations, ensuring that your case is filed within the prescribed timeframe.

2. Strategic Guidance

An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, providing strategic guidance on when to file your lawsuit and how to build a compelling case.

3. Maximizing Compensation

Personal injury attorneys are skilled negotiators. They can advocate for your rights and work to secure the maximum compensation possible for your injuries and losses.

Conclusion

Time is a precious resource when it comes to personal injury claims. Understanding and adhering to the statute of limitations is fundamental in protecting your rights and ensuring that you have a fair opportunity to seek compensation for your injuries. At The Law Offices of Justin H. King, we are committed to guiding our clients through this process, ensuring that every step is taken within the legal timeframe. If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t delay. Contact us today and let us help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Our skilled team is here to provide you with expert legal counsel and representation, making your recovery and legal journey as smooth as possible. Your rights matter, and we’re here to protect them. Read more about our firm.

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By Justin H. King, Esq. | Posted on October 22, 2023

17:05 25 Oct 24

Thank you so much to Oliver King and Garrett Tuckerman for helping me with my case. They've been outstanding. Although the process was overwhelming, I felt reassured, supported, and listened to. I highly recommend the Law offices of Justin King to anyone who needs help.

Savana Martinez

18:30 04 Sep 24

The team at Law Office of Justin King went above and beyond with my case.It was my first big automobile accident while being 6 months pregnant and I was terrified. I called them the same day and they took on my case immediately.Throughout the whole process they were communicative and on top of everything. I would recommend to everyone and would go back to them again if need be.Thank you to this amazingly firm !

Hate Nine

06:01 04 Sep 24

Wow! I can't say enough good things about the Law Offices of Justin King. Attitude starts at the top, & this firm is top tier. They represented me (& yes we won!) for an injury I sustained while riding my motorcycle westbound on the 10. Someone changed lanes without looking, which resulted in a knee injury, a lot of physical therapy, & a totaled motorcycle. I wasn't sure what to do or if this were even something worth pursuing. I found Justin's webpage & sent a quick message to him on a Saturday night then thought nothing of it. My first call from Justin was Sunday morning. I was immediately impressed. After hearing a bit of my story & asking a few questions I was ready to have Justin represent me. My first question was "How much do I need to come up with to get this started? Justin replied, you don't owe anything until we win. Not unless, until. That set the tone of the next 2 years of my life. As your case progresses it'll require work from you & a whole team working to represent you. Staci will call & let you know she's emailing documents that require signatures; Garrett will call to ask for details they need to understand & yes, he will call to remind you that you forgot to sign a document 3 days earlier. These are great people who genuinely care. They will take time to understand your needs & they communicate every step of the way. If you are injured, you need to call Justin & his team right away. You will not be disappointed!Google only allows 5 stars, but these guys deserve 10!

Vivian Garcia

01:00 15 Aug 24

I was involved in my first big automobile accident last year, in Yorba Linda. I was a bit overwhelmed as you can imagine. Friends suggested that I hire an attorney to handle my case and I was not quite sure how to proceed. I was very fortunate when I was referred to Justin King’s office.I met with Mr. King and found him to be very personable and he listened to my concerns. I felt very comfortable and confident that he would help me in getting a fair outcome to my case.I want to also thank Garrett Tuckerman for all he did in keeping me updated with everything going on with my case and for being there whenever I had any questions or concerns. I also want to mention Leoni Barrera who was always pleasant and supportive when I called.I highly recommend The Law Offices of Justin H. King for your personal injury needs. I feel that Mr. King and his whole staff, with their knowledge, expertise and professionalism will help make your experience a less stressful one.

Lisa Perchez

21:53 29 Jul 24

Last July I was struck by a falling case of liquor at Total Wine in Rancho Cucamonga which led to a slip and fall. My friends and family urged me to contact a lawyer after discovering I needed surgery to repair my broken wrist. A friend found Justin King on Google. Justin was compassionate, accessible, and took charge from the very first meeting. He was able to obtain the surveillance video capturing the entire incident, and made an appointment for me to see a prominent neurologist after the video showed the case struck the front of my head. The entire staff at The Law Offices of Justin H. King were very easy to work with, and I always felt like my case was getting personal attention. Thank you Garrett, Staci, and Leoni! My case went to mediation and settled for more than 3x what they originally offered. If you have been injured in an accident, I highly recommend The Law Offices of Justin H. King.

Leslie S.

18:26 13 Jul 24

I want to thank Justin and his amazing office. They made a very traumatic/ nightmare of a situation into a more bearable situation every step of the way. They kept us updated and we were reassured that we were in good hands. I want to also express my gratitude to Garrett for being so empathic and supportive through the ups and downs that comes with a case. We are so blessed to have had them handle our case. I would recommend them to anyone who is looking for a professional and dependable office. Thank you again Justin King Office!!!

Melinda Jordan

09:02 18 Dec 22

I went from feeling like a basket case from all the stress to feeling calm and collected after talking to Justin. He is a phenomenal personal injury lawyer and is a truly calming and reassuring presence. This firm helped me in ways I can't even adequately put into words, other than to say Thank You, Justin, to you and your awesome team.

Marjorie Harris

04:14 18 Dec 22

After an auto accident, I felt really nervous calling an attorney because I had never worked with one before. But from the first conversation I had with Jessica, I felt so at ease. Justin then called me and was so easy going and we had a nice conversation too. The entire staff took great care of me and I am very happy.

Sheila Hughes

03:45 18 Dec 22

I was in a car accident that was not my fault two years ago. A friend of mine had a family member who had been helped in the past by Justin King, and they suggested I call him. I'm so glad I did! Justin and his team took great care of my situation and got a great settlement for me. I highly recommend them if you have been in an accident. You will be very happy with what this firm. They are smart, hard-working, honest, and take great care of their clients.

Margaret James

04:43 01 Dec 22

Justin's entire staff is the best car accident lawyer team in Rancho Cucamonga. Justin, Oliver, Jessica, and Garrett all provided me with excellent service and treated me like family. They are all such great people, and always so honest and responsive to me. I gladly recommend them to anyone needing the services of a car accident lawyer in the Inland Empire.

Wm Holland

06:13 17 Nov 22

When I needed a lawyer following a car accident on the Interstate 15 Freeway in Rancho Cucamonga, Justin King, and his team were there for me. I appreciated how his entire staff always seemed happy to answer my questions and were so good about returning all my phone calls and emails. I could tell this firm has immense experience in helping people get their life back after an unfortunate car crash. I was so happy with the outcome of my case and the results Justin obtained from the insurance company on my behalf. I have recommended their office to all my family members and neighbors. I hope you never need to call them. But if you need the best car accident lawyers, I can vouch that they are excellent.