What affects how long a claim takes?
Whether liability is admitted or disputed; severity of injury and whether medical condition has stabilised; complexity of financial losses; whether court proceedings are needed
Timeline for a straightforward claim
Month 1: medical treatment, gather evidence, instruct solicitor; Month 2–3: letter of claim; Month 3–6: insurer investigates, admits or denies; Month 6–12: medical report, loss schedule, negotiate settlement
Timeline for a disputed or serious injury claim
Letters of claim and denial; court proceedings issued; disclosure; expert reports; joint meetings of experts; trial listing; 18 months to 3 years typical
Why you should not rush to settle
Settling before medical prognosis confirmed risks underselling the claim; condition must stabilise before final report; solicitor's duty to advise on maximum recovery
Can interim payments speed things up financially?
Link to /guides/interim-payment-explained
Related questions
Can I speed up my work accident claim?
You can help by responding promptly to your solicitor's requests, attending medical appointments and keeping records of your losses. The main delays are usually insurer-side investigation and medical report preparation.
What if my employer is delaying?
Protocol timeframes are enforceable. Court proceedings can be issued if the insurer fails to comply. Your solicitor can apply for costs sanctions.
Can you claim? Find out in four quick steps.
Enquiries may be referred to SRA-regulated UK solicitor firms where appropriate. No win, no fee is subject to solicitor assessment of your individual case.
0800 000 0000Where did the accident happen?
Pick the setting closest to your situation.
Sources
- Pre-Action Protocol for Personal Injury Claims
- EL/PL Protocol
- CPR Part 25 (interim payments)
This answer is editorial information about UK law. It is not legal advice and does not create a solicitor–client relationship. For advice on your circumstances, speak to a regulated personal-injury solicitor.