A slip-and-fall settlement can take anywhere from a few months to a year or longer. Less complex cases take less time, whereas contested cases that require extensive negotiations can go on for 18 months or more. Every case is different and requires a unique timeline.
Working with an attorney can mean a faster settlement, especially if they are known for taking cases to court. Most insurance companies prefer to avoid the expense of a civil trial if possible, and your lawyer’s reputation and approach can encourage them to settle.
Our Long Island slip-and-fall lawyers have more than 100 years of combined legal experience. We will negotiate for the maximum settlement for your slip-and-fall claim, and we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary. Call for your free consultation and tell us about your case.
Quick Slip-and-Fall Settlement Offers
If you have been hurt in a slip-and-fall accident, it is understandable that you’d want to put the event behind you and move on. A fast settlement that completely covers your damages is ideal, and insurance companies will often make an offer quickly.
Unfortunately, while their offers are expedient, they are often far below what your case is worth. They know you are hurting, and if they can convince you to take the first offer, they’ll get off the hook for a fraction of the cost. This is why it’s so important to consult with an attorney.
While a fast settlement is always helpful, our legal team’s goal is to recover the maximum compensation you deserve. We will keep you informed and help you understand the various factors that can impact your case.
Complex Slip-and-Fall Cases Take Longer
As a general rule of thumb, the more complicated your slip-and-fall case, the longer it will take to settle. Cases involving multiple liable parties, disputed fault, or complex legal issues take more time to resolve.
When a fall occurs on commercial property, in a government building, or involves contractors, determining responsibility can be slow. Additionally, complex cases often require expert testimony on building codes, safety standards, or medical issues.
Attorney Involvement
A skilled attorney knows how to gather evidence, negotiate effectively with insurance companies, and push your case forward. When a lawyer is known for taking cases to trial, an insurance company may settle more quickly.
However, sometimes a faster settlement isn’t in your best interest. Thorough lawyers take time to build strong claims and give you a better chance of winning. Our team works on a contingency fee basis, so no matter how long the case takes, there is no fee until we win.
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Slip-and-Fall Accident Investigation
An accident investigation may involve obtaining surveillance footage, incident reports, witness statements, maintenance logs, and photos of the hazardous condition. If property owners delay releasing documents or deny responsibility, the investigation can take longer.
Experts may be required to inspect flooring, lighting, or structural issues, further extending the timeline. Additionally, if evidence is missing or disputed, our attorneys may need additional interviews or inquiries.
Injury Assessment
Injury assessment heavily influences how long a settlement takes because attorneys typically wait until the victim reaches maximum medical improvement. This ensures all of your injuries and damages are accounted for. We aim to recover total compensation for:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Future medical needs
- Rehabilitation
- Medications
- Out-of-pocked expenses
- Non-economic damages like pain and suffering
Doctors may need to provide long-term prognosis reports or disability ratings, which add time. If injuries worsen, new tests or treatments can help show the extent of the injuries. Rushing this stage risks undervaluing your claim.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies attempt to minimize payouts and may use delay tactics. They may request additional documentation, dispute injury severity, or argue shared fault.
Negotiations can involve multiple rounds of offers and counteroffers. Some insurers purposely
delay communication to pressure claimants into accepting lower settlements. When adjusters refuse to negotiate fairly, our attorneys may need to escalate the case and consider litigation.
Slip-and-Fall Statute of Limitations and Timelines
In New York, the statute of limitations for most slip-and-fall cases is three years from the date of the accident, as per NY CPLR § 214(5). While it won’t often take three years for a settlement, a delay in filing your claim can lengthen the timeline.
Under some circumstances, there are exceptions to the statute of limitations. If your slip-and-fall occurred on government property, for example, filing a claim against a city or government agency requires a Notice of Claim within 90 days and a lawsuit within one year and 90 days.
Get Legal Help With Your Slip-and-Fall Case
A slip-and-fall settlement can take months or years, depending on the complexity of your claim, but don’t let that deter you from seeking justice. Your injuries may take months to heal, you may not be able to attend work while you recover, and your debts may skyrocket.
When a negligent property owner is to blame, you have the right to compensation. Our team can guide you through what to do after a personal injury accident. We will deal with insurance companies, negotiate for the settlement you deserve, and take your case to court if necessary.
Levine And Wiss has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for injured accident victims in New York. We are Committed to Justice and Focused on You. Call today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation and learn more about how we can help your slip-and-fall case.
