What Is the Timeline of a Car Accident Lawsuit in South Carolina?
The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. Besides being physically and emotionally distressing, car accidents can also be legally complicated. After being involved in a South Carolina car accident because of the negligence of another party, one of the questions you may be asking yourself is how long it takes to resolve a car accident case in court. So, what is the timeline of a car accident lawsuit in South Carolina? There is no average timeline for car accident lawsuits in South Carolina. Every car accident case is different. The time it takes to resolve a car accident case in court depends on the facts of the case. This means that the time it will take to resolve your case in court depends on the facts of your case.
Factors That Can Determine the Timeline of a Car Accident Lawsuit in South Carolina
Several factors can influence the timeline of a car accident lawsuit in South Carolina. They include the following;
The Complexity of the Case
One of the things that can significantly impact how long it takes to resolve your South Carolina car accident court case is the complexity of your case. Cases involving multiple defendants, severe injuries, or disputed liability can take longer to resolve.
The Court’s Caseload or Schedule
If the court has a heavy caseload, it may take long before your trial is scheduled. Also, the availability of the judge and the courtroom space can affect how fast your case moves forward.
Parties’ Willingness To Negotiate
After a car accident lawsuit is filed, parties still have an opportunity to negotiate and reach an agreement. In fact, many car accident lawsuits are settled through negotiations before reaching trial. When both parties are willing to negotiate, the case can be resolved faster, avoiding a lengthy court process. On the other hand, if one party is unwilling to compromise or makes unreasonable demands, it can prolong the lawsuit.
The Extent of the Injuries
The extent of your injuries can significantly influence the timeline of your car accident lawsuit. Severe injuries require extensive medical treatment and a more extended recovery period before the full extent of damages becomes clear or before Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) is reached. As a result, cases involving severe injuries tend to take longer to resolve.
Appeals
After the court makes a decision in a car accident case, either party has the right to appeal the decision. If you or the defendant appeals the court’s decision, it can significantly impact the timeline of your case. An appeal can significantly extend the timeline of your case.
File Your Lawsuit on Time
It is crucial to note that there is a time limit for filing a car accident lawsuit in South Carolina. South Carolina law gives you three years from the date of your accident to file your lawsuit. Failure to file your South Carolina car accident lawsuit within three years can result in you losing your right to recover compensation.
Contact a Charleston Car Accident Lawyer
If you have been involved in a car accident in South Carolina, contact our qualified Charleston car accident lawyer at the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm for legal help. We can help protect your rights and get you the compensation you deserve, whether through an out-of-court settlement or court verdict.
