How Long Does It Take to Settle a Personal Injury Case in Illinois?
You’ve been injured. Maybe it was a car accident, a fall at work, or something else that left you shaken and unsure about what comes next. Between the medical bills, the time off work, and the stress of recovery, it is only natural to wonder, how long is this going to take?
That is where Attorney Michael J. Brennan comes in. With decades of experience helping injury victims across Illinois, he knows what to expect and how to guide you through the legal maze. If you are looking for straight answers and real support, contact his office today for a free consultation.
Your Medical Recovery Drives the Timeline
One of the most important factors in any personal injury case is your health. Before any settlement can happen, your injuries need to be fully understood. That means doctors need time to treat you and determine whether you are expected to make a full recovery or if there will be long-term effects.
If you settle too early, you might miss out on compensation for future care or ongoing pain. That is why your attorney will likely advise waiting until treatment is mostly finished or your medical team has given a clear prognosis.
During this time, your legal team is not just waiting around. They are building your case by collecting records, reviewing medical bills, interviewing witnesses, and documenting your losses. Once the picture becomes clearer, your attorney will prepare a demand for compensation that reflects not only your current expenses but also the long-term impact of your injuries.
Dealing with the Insurance Company
Once a demand is submitted, the case enters the negotiation phase. Some insurance companies respond quickly and work toward a fair resolution. Others drag their feet or try to minimize the value of your claim. They might argue about who was at fault or question the seriousness of your injuries.
If negotiations stall, your attorney may file a lawsuit. This does not mean the case will definitely go to trial. In fact, many cases settle after a suit is filed, often during mediation or even just before the trial date.
Filing suit does add time to the process. Discovery, where each side exchanges information, can take months. There may be depositions, independent medical exams, and court appearances. But sometimes this added pressure is what finally pushes an insurance company to offer a fair settlement.
Attorney Michael J. Brennan has been through this process hundreds of times. He knows when to negotiate and when to take a stronger stance, always with your best interests in mind.
What to Expect in Terms of Time
So how long does it all take? The answer depends on the details of your case. Simpler claims with minor injuries and cooperative insurers can sometimes be resolved in six to nine months. If your injuries are more serious or there are questions about liability, the case could take twelve to eighteen months. For more complex cases involving long-term treatment or disputed facts, the timeline can stretch beyond two years.
Keep in mind that the statute of limitations in Illinois is two years from the date of the injury. That means if you wait too long to take legal action, you could lose your chance to recover any compensation. This is why it is smart to speak with a lawyer early, even if you are still in treatment. Getting legal help upfront ensures that deadlines are met and your rights are protected from the start.
At the Law Offices of Michael J. Brennan, each client is treated with care and urgency. Michael handles cases personally, so you always know who is working for you and what is happening with your case. You will never be left wondering what comes next.
Start with a Free Conversation
There is no simple answer to how long a personal injury case will take, but there is a simple way to find out what to expect in your situation. Talk to a lawyer who has been there before, who understands the Illinois system, and who will be honest about your options.
If you have been injured and want to know where you stand, do not wait. Contact Attorney Michael J. Brennan today for a free, no-obligation consultation. There is no cost to get started and no fee unless your case settles or wins in court.