Most California car accident cases settle in 3–18 months. Here's the exact timeline from crash to settlement check — and what you can do to speed it up without sacrificing your payout.
Medical treatment, police report, evidence collection, attorney consultation. This phase sets the foundation for your entire case.
Attorney investigates the accident, orders police reports, obtains surveillance footage (expires quickly), sends letters to preserve evidence, notifies all insurance companies.
You must complete medical treatment (or reach Maximum Medical Improvement) before we can accurately value your case. Settling too early locks in a low number.
Attorney compiles all medical bills, records, lost wage documentation, and expert opinions into a comprehensive demand letter sent to the insurance company.
Insurance company responds (typically 30–60 days). Back-and-forth negotiation begins. Most cases settle here. If the insurer is unreasonable, we file a lawsuit.
Filing suit often prompts faster settlement. Discovery, depositions, and mediation usually resolve cases before trial. Trials are rare but powerful leverage.
| Factor | Effect on Timeline |
|---|---|
| Clear liability | Speeds up — insurance settles quickly |
| Disputed fault | Slows down — may require litigation |
| Severe injuries | Slows down — must complete treatment first |
| Multiple defendants | Slows down — coordination required |
| Low-limit insurance | May speed up — quick policy limit demand |
| Attorney representation | Can speed up — insurers take represented victims more seriously |
The sooner you call, the faster we can start building your case and preserving evidence.
📞 Call 1-888-232-2898 — Free 24/7