When bad drivers strike, we’re ready.

Unfortunately, there is no simple answer for this. Depending on the specifics of the accident, the injuries, and the insurance companies involved, it can take anywhere from a few months to a few years before everything is settled.

Here are a few factors that can affect timing:

- The specifics of the accident. If the driver who caused the accident was driving their personal vehicle, the case will be settled faster than one that involved a government vehicle.

- The extent of your injuries. It's important that you know the full extent of your injuries and the impact on your life to make sure the damages cover everything.

- The actions of the insurance companies. Each insurer has its own approval process for handling claims. We continue to push them, but certain companies take longer than others.

- Going to court. Most cases settle out of court, but if your case goes to trial, there are specific time periods in place. For example, once you file a lawsuit, the other party has 30 days to answer your claim. In general, however, these cases take longer than negotiating a settlement out of court.

Around 95% of car accident claims are settled out of court. Your attorney can share the benefits and risks of going to trial for your specific case, but here are some general reasons people choose to settle out of court:

- Lawsuits come with risks. You may lose your case entirely, or a jury could award damages that are less than you would get in a settlement.

- Timing. Trials take longer, which means you may not receive compensation as quickly as you would like. Having a pending lawsuit also prevents you from closing this difficult chapter of your life.

- Privacy. The results of your lawsuit become part of the public record, which may not feel comfortable to you.

Cooper Elliott offers free consultations, and we are paid only if we win your lawsuit or settle your claim out of court. We discuss the details with you at each stage of the process so there are no surprises.

You will meet with an experienced attorney who will listen to your story and discuss the legal options available to you.

We will be honest with you about how the legal system works and possible avenues to explore to seek justice for the injuries you sustained from the car accident.

Every day, we meet with people who are picking up the pieces of their life after a tragedy. We understand how difficult this can be, and we won't pressure you into doing anything you don't want to do at any step.