By Shane Smith – Personal Injury Attorney at Shane Smith Law
So you were in a wreck.
You’re getting medical treatment.
And now you’re wondering…
“How long until I get a check in my hand?”
I get this question all the time and I always wish I could give you a simple answer.
But the truth is: it depends on two big things; and neither of them are fully in our control.
Let me explain.
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🔑 Factor #1: How Long It Takes You to Get Better
Your recovery timeline plays the biggest role in how long your case will take.
Some clients are fully healed in 3–4 months. They went to the ER, maybe had some neck or back pain, did a few weeks of physical therapy, and bounced back pretty quickly.
Other clients have long–term injuries. They need:
- MRIs
- Pain management
- Multiple doctors
- Extended treatment plans
In those cases, it could take 6 months to over a year just to finish treatment.
And until you’re done treating, or at least back to your pre-accident baseline, we can’t finalize the value of your case.
🔑 Factor #2: How the Insurance Company Responds
Once you’re done with treatment, we get to work on the next phase:
- We gather all of your medical records and bills (this can take awhile depending on how responsive your providers are)
- We create your demand package
- We submit it to the insurance company
- Then… we wait to see how they respond
Some insurers move quickly. Others don’t.
And some cases that should be simple, turn into a fight over minor issues. While others settle smoothly without a battle.
So, while we always push hard for a fast resolution, we can’t predict how much resistance we’ll face from the insurance company until we get there.
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⏳ General Timeline: What to Expect
Once your demand has been sent out.
- We aim to settle your case in 60–120 days from that point.
But if the insurance company delays or lowballs the offer, or in some cases if we need to file a lawsuit; it can take significantly longer.
If your case goes into litigation, it’s a much slower process due to court timelines, depositions, and trial prep. That’s why we always weigh the value of a settlement vs. the risk and delay of going to court.
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💡 A Few Tips While You Wait
- Stay consistent with treatment. The faster you heal, the faster we move.
- Keep us updated. Let us know about changes in your care or your pain levels.
- Be patient with the process. We’re working behind the scenes even if things feel quiet on your end.
And one important reminder:
We don’t get paid until you do.
So when you’re wondering if we’re moving fast enough; just know, we want to wrap up your case just as much as you do.
Final Thoughts from Shane
Every case is unique. Some are fast. Some are frustrating.
But we’re in it with you the whole way and we’ll never recommend settling for less than you deserve.
We fight to get the right outcome, not just the quickest one.
📍 Still have questions about your case timeline? Let’s talk.
📞 In pain? Call Shane! 980-999-9999
💼 Shane Smith Law – Helping Injured People Move Forward
Call or text (980) 246-2656 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
