One of the most common questions people ask after a crash is simple: “How long will my car accident settlement take?” While each case is unique, most Georgia claims follow a predictable timeline—from initial treatment to negotiation to potential litigation. Understanding this process gives you clarity, reduces stress, and helps you make informed decisions.
At Kevin Patrick Law, we guide clients through every phase and help them avoid the delays that insurance companies often create. Here’s what you can expect.
Step 1: Medical Treatment & Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
Timeline: Weeks to months
Your medical care is the foundation of your claim. You should complete your treatment—or get as close to recovery as possible—before beginning settlement negotiations. Why?
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Your injuries must be fully documented.
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Your doctors need time to understand your diagnosis and prognosis.
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Settling too early may cause you to leave money on the table.
Most Georgia claims do not settle until MMI, meaning your doctor believes you have recovered as much as expected.
Tip from Kevin Patrick: The severity of injuries is the biggest factor affecting your settlement timeline. More serious cases take longer because medical care takes longer.
Step 2: Gathering Evidence & Sending the Demand Letter
Timeline: 30–60 days after treatment ends
Once treatment is finished or stabilized, your attorney prepares a settlement demand package, which typically includes:
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Medical records and bills
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Lost wage documentation
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Photographs of injuries and property damage
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Police report
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Witness statements
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Expert opinions (if needed)
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A legal summary of liability and damages
In Georgia, insurance companies are usually given 30 days to respond to a demand, though some choose to respond faster or request more time.
Step 3: Insurance Company Evaluation & Negotiation
Timeline: Several weeks to several months
Once the demand is submitted, negotiations begin. This part of the process can vary depending on:
1. Liability Disputes
If fault is clear, claims move quickly. If not, the insurer may delay or try to reduce your claim.
2. Policy Limits
If your damages exceed the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage, the insurer may offer the full policy limit quickly.
If not, negotiations may take longer.
3. Insurance Company Behavior
Certain carriers have a reputation for slow responses or low initial offers. Your attorney’s persistence and experience matter here.
Step 4: Deciding Whether to File a Lawsuit
Timeline: If settlement fails—add 6–24 months
If negotiations stall, filing a lawsuit may be the best path to full compensation. This moves your case into Georgia’s court system.
Under O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can bar your claim entirely.
Once a lawsuit begins, the timeline changes significantly.
Step 5: Litigation Phase: Discovery & Depositions
Timeline: 6–12 months
During discovery, both sides exchange information. This phase includes:
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Written questions (interrogatories)
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Requests for documents
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Depositions of you, witnesses, and medical providers
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Expert reports
Even during litigation, most Georgia cases still settle before trial. In fact, filing a lawsuit often motivates insurers to increase their offer.
Step 6: Mediation & Pre-Trial Negotiations
Timeline: Typically scheduled within 12–18 months of filing suit
Mediation is a structured negotiation with a neutral third party. It is one of the most effective ways to resolve a car accident lawsuit before trial.
Kevin Patrick Law regularly attends mediations across Georgia and resolves a large percentage of cases during this stage.
Step 7: Trial (If Necessary)
Timeline: 12–24+ months after filing suit
If the case still does not settle, it proceeds to trial. Trials may last days or weeks, depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s schedule. While trial adds time, it can result in significantly higher compensation—especially when the insurance company has been unreasonable.
What Factors Influence Your Timeline Most?
Several elements directly impact how long a settlement takes in Georgia:
1. Injury Severity
More medical care = longer timelines.
2. Disputes Over Fault
If liability is clear, cases move faster.
3. Insurance Company Tactics
Some carriers slow down claims hoping victims will accept less.
4. Court Backlogs
If a lawsuit is filed, scheduling can affect timing.
5. Whether Multiple Parties Are Involved
Multi-vehicle cases or commercial vehicle claims typically take longer.
Average Timeframes at a Glance
| Stage | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Medical treatment | Weeks–months |
| Demand preparation | 30–60 days |
| Insurance negotiations | Weeks–months |
| Litigation (if needed) | 6–24 months |
| Trial | 1–3 weeks |
How Kevin Patrick Law Helps Speed Up the Process
While some factors are beyond your control, having the right lawyer can dramatically reduce delays. At Kevin Patrick Law, we:
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Communicate with insurers aggressively
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Gather records quickly
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Push for timely negotiations
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File suit promptly when needed
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Keep you informed at every stage
Conclusion
Car accident settlements in Georgia can take anywhere from a few months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case. The most important thing you can do is work with an experienced attorney who knows how to secure full value while avoiding unnecessary delays.