How Long Does a Car Accident Settlement Take in California?

TL;DR: Car accident settlements in California can take a few months to over a year. Most cases resolve within 6–12 months, but factors like injury severity, disputed liability, and whether a lawsuit is filed can affect the timeline. You don’t have to face the wait alone—this guide walks you through what to expect and how to protect your rights at every stage.

506 REVIEWS

We just wanted to thank you all so much for all of the work and time that was invested into my daughter's case. A special thanks to Daisy who always kept us updated and was such a pleasure to work with. Thanks to Joi as well. Great work everyone!

Weneal T.

506 REVIEWS

I was rear ended about a year ago now and West Coast Trial Lawyers was the only firm I wanted to represent me. From the moment I reached out to West Coast Trial Lawyers, I knew I made the right choice. The Property Damage team worked with the insurance companies to quickly get me a rental and handle the repairs. The Treatment team kept on top of all the doctor's appointments, and the rest of the team helped maximize my settlement amount. Overall, I am very grateful for all the work the staff and attorneys did on my case. My case settled recently and I could not be happier with the outcome. I would highly recommend West Coast Trial Lawyers to anyone going through what I went through.

Raf G.

506 REVIEWS

They helped my husband when no one else wanted to. They were very reliable and responsive. They always answered our questions efficiently and gave us as more information as they could. They constantly kept us updated as well.I would strongly recommend them to any family or friends going through an employment situation. They will take care of you and fight for you!

Amaya B

506 REVIEWS

They know what they are doing, very well. Not only have I not made a single phone call since the day I hired them, but I have also received calls from their case managers and paralegals wanting to make sure my treatment was going well. The whole team took care of me. Thank you WCTL for taking full responsibility for my case and getting me an amazing settlement.

Sasan

506 REVIEWS

This is my first time needing a lawyer and I couldn't believe how helpful these guys were! They were very professional, quick and easy to work with! I even came to the office to pick up my check and the receptionist was very nice and even offered me water (it was a hot day). I would 100% recommend this team and come back for their services!

Nancy N.

506 REVIEWS

Very pleased with your service, they always answer the phone and are aware of your case, the people who helped me were Nicolás, Emilia and Victoria, I must say that they deserve a raise because they are doing an incredible job that I could not. be happier. Thanks guys.

Ivan C.

308 REVIEWS

oast Trial Lawyers. Each attorney who has worked on my case showed professionalism, good communication skills, and compassion towards me. I was also satisfied with the pay I received for each case.

Micheal Swarz

308 REVIEWS

This is my second case with this Law Firm, I love their website they make it very easy to communicate and ask questions. Everyone was very helpful and truly helped me settle my case. Great experience will definitely use again. They helped me fix my car after my accident, spectacular job!

Sarahy Realegeno

308 REVIEWS

Exceptional service from start to finish! The team at West Coast Trial lawyers handled my personal injury case with professionalism, compassion, and expertise. They kept me informed every step of the way and fought tirelessly to ensure I received the compensation I deserved. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of legal representation for personal injury cases. 5 stars!

Andre Hinojos

308 REVIEWS

I was involved in car accident last summer while taking my kid to school. It was my first accident so I was extremely nervous and scared. After venting out several law firms, I went with West Coast Trial Lawyers. From the start, till the very end, I was always connected and in touch with my attorney, the process was a lot easier than I thought and I am happy to say everything went better than expected with my case!! Thank you to the entire staff!

Charles Thompson

308 REVIEWS

So far the best lawyers I have dealt with. Keep me informed of everything that was going on with my case. Made the whole process simple and painless. Pointed me in the right direction . Will refer everyone that needs it to them thank you guys .

Taylor Frady

497 REVIEWS

This is a great firm that gets it done. When my brother was killed in an auto/bike accident we contacted West Coast Trial Lawyers and they handled our case and even got us a really great setttlement based on the situation and circumstance. We know no one could have done a better job.

Meck Giinan

497 REVIEWS

Superior team of lawyers who helped me after T-bone accident with my family in the car as well. Stressful incident made a bit better by WCTL.

Elizabeth J. Millen

497 REVIEWS

Neama was such great help and was always in contact when I had questions or concerns regarding my car accident case. He is definitely the best personal injury lawyer I could have given my case to. You really do feel like he is fighting for you. Neama took on my case as if it were his, and didn’t stop until I received my great settlement. Thank you again West Coast!

Richard

308 REVIEWS

I can say with confidence that this team is the best in the business.... Dean took the time to really listen and hear me out. He assured me that he was going to move mountains because he believed in me, and he ended up doing just that. I've never met a more focused and passionate attorney in my life.

Delilah

Typical Timeline for a Car Accident Settlement

1. Immediately After the Crash (Days 1–7)

Action: Get medical care, report the crash, and begin documenting injuries, symptoms, and damages. Preserve all evidence, including photos and witness statements.

2. Initial Medical Treatment and Recovery (Weeks 1–12)

Action: Attend medical appointments. If you’re seriously injured, this phase could last several months. Keep all medical records and follow-up consistently.

3. Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) and Case Evaluation (Months 3–6+)

MMI means your condition has stabilized. Once you reach MMI, your lawyer can calculate damages—money for your losses like medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.

4. Settlement Negotiations (Weeks to Months)

Your attorney sends a demand letter. The insurance company may respond within 30–60 days. Multiple rounds of negotiation are common. Many cases settle at this stage.

5. Filing a Lawsuit (If Necessary – May Extend to 1–2 Years)

If a fair settlement isn’t reached, your lawyer may file a lawsuit. Cases still often settle before trial, but the process can extend the timeline by months—or more than a year.

What Affects How Long a Settlement Takes?

• Severity of injuries: More serious injuries mean longer treatment—and delays until MMI is reached.
• Liability disputes: If fault is unclear, settlement may be delayed while both sides investigate.
• Insurance company tactics: Delays, lowball offers, and multiple adjusters can slow progress.
• Multiple parties: Multi-car crashes or government involvement usually add complexity and time.
• Whether a lawsuit is filed: Litigation significantly lengthens the timeline.

Real Story: Pasadena Client Settles for $130,000 After 8-Month Treatment

After a rear-end collision in Pasadena, our client followed medical advice and documented treatment for eight months. The insurance company initially offered $28,000. Six weeks after sending a demand letter, we negotiated a $130,000 settlement.

Feeling Stressed by the Wait?

Take a deep breath. Write down your concerns and keep tracking your symptoms. Your legal team can handle the details while you focus on healing. You’re not alone in this process.

FAQs

How long does a car accident settlement usually take?

Most cases settle in 6–12 months. If you reach MMI quickly and liability is clear, it could be faster. If litigation is required, it may take 1–2 years.

Does filing a lawsuit slow down the process?

Yes. Lawsuits introduce court timelines and discovery phases, which can add months to the process. However, most still settle before trial.

Can I settle before finishing treatment?

It’s not advised. Settling too soon may mean you miss compensation for future care. Wait until you reach MMI whenever possible.

Does the type of accident affect the timeline?

Yes. Hit-and-runs, multi-car crashes, or government-related accidents often take longer to resolve than straightforward rear-end or T-bone cases.

Does hiring a lawyer speed up the process?

Often, yes. A lawyer manages paperwork, evidence, and negotiations—helping you avoid costly delays or mistakes.

Talk to a California Car Accident Lawyer Today

West Coast Trial Lawyers has helped thousands of clients navigate the claims process. Contact us for a free consultation. No win, no fee. We’re here to protect your rights and move your case forward.

Article by Neama Rahmani, Esq. — President, West Coast Trial Lawyers. California Bar No. 240613. Verify credentials.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult an attorney about your individual case.