After a slip and fall accident, injured victims often wonder how long the legal process will take. Unfortunately, there is no single timeline that applies to Geneva, IL slip and fall cases. Some claims resolve in a matter of months, while others may take a year or longer, depending on the circumstances.
Factors that influence the case timeline include:
- Whether the insurance company disputes liability for your fall
- The severity of your injuries and how long it takes you to reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
- Whether your case proceeds to court
Understanding what affects the timeline can help set realistic expectations and avoid rushing into an unfavorable settlement.
Factors That Impact the Timeline of Your Case
Disputed liability is often the biggest factor impacting the length of your case. Property owners and insurance companies frequently deny responsibility for slip and falls. They may argue that the hazardous condition was open and obvious or that they lacked notice of the danger. If the property owner accepts fault early, a case may settle within weeks or months. However, when liability is disputed, additional investigation and negotiation are required, which can significantly extend the timeline.
The severity of your injuries also affects how long your case takes. Slip and fall accidents can cause anything from minor sprains to brain and spinal injuries. Cases involving minor injuries may resolve sooner because medical costs are minimal and damages are easier to calculate. In contrast, severe injuries may require long-term medical care, making it difficult to determine the full value of the claim early on.
In many cases, you may need to reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) before you know the full extent of your damages. MMI is the point at which your doctor determines that your condition has stabilized and is unlikely to improve further. Waiting for MMI gives you a better picture of your case value, but it also adds time.
Cases That Proceed to Trial Require More Time to Resolve
Most Illinois slip and fall cases settle out of court. However, litigation may be necessary in cases where the insurance company disputes fault or undervalues your injuries and losses. Lawsuits that proceed toward trial typically take longer due to the time-intensive legal process involved.
A typical slip and fall lawsuit includes several stages:
- Filing the lawsuit
- Discovery, where parties exchange evidence, take depositions, and consult experts
- Pretrial motions and ongoing negotiations
- Mediation or settlement conferences
- Trial
Each stage adds time, and court schedules can further delay resolution.
A Slip & Fall Attorney Can Help Move Your Case Along Efficiently
Working with an experienced Illinois slip and fall attorney can help your case move as efficiently as possible. An attorney can promptly investigate the accident, handle all communications/negotiations with insurance companies, and file paperwork correctly and on time.
Most importantly, an attorney can advise you on when it makes sense to settle and when waiting may result in better compensation. If you were injured in a slip and fall accident, contact an Illinois slip and fall lawyer at Feagans law Group for help understanding your rights.