How Long Does a Car Accident Trial Last?

When a car accident case goes to trial, the process can take several months to over a year, depending on the circumstances. Many factors influence the timeline, including the complexity of the case, court scheduling, and the willingness of both parties to settle before trial. While some instances conclude in weeks, others may take longer due to pre-trial motions, discovery, and appeals. At Levitsky Law Firm PLLC, we help clients understand what to expect in a car accident trial and how to prepare for each stage.

Factors That Affect Trial Duration

Several factors influence how long a car accident trial lasts, including:

• The severity of injuries and damages – Cases involving extensive medical treatments, permanent disabilities, or fatalities often take longer to resolve.
• The amount of evidence required – Medical records, accident reports, witness testimonies, and expert opinions must be thoroughly reviewed and presented in court.
• Court availability – Court scheduling can delay trial dates, particularly in high-traffic jurisdictions such as Brooklyn and Manhattan.
• The willingness to settle – Many cases are settled before trial, but if both parties refuse compensation, the case moves to a full trial.

A personal injury lawyer in Brooklyn can assess the specific details of a case and provide an estimated timeline based on similar cases.

Pre-Trial Phase: Preparation and Filing

Before a trial begins, the case goes through a pre-trial phase, which can take anywhere from a few months to over a year. The steps in this phase include:

• Filing the lawsuit – The injured party files a lawsuit against the at-fault driver or their insurance company.
• In the discovery phase, Both sides gather evidence, exchange documents, and depose witnesses.
• Pre-trial motions – Attorneys may file motions to dismiss the case or exclude specific evidence.

The length of the pre-trial phase depends on the case’s complexity and whether any disputes arise over evidence or witness testimonies. A Brooklyn personal injury lawyer can help clients prepare by collecting and adequately presenting all necessary documentation.

Trial Phase: What to Expect in Court

Once the case proceeds to trial, the process generally follows these steps:

1. Jury selection – Both sides select jurors if the case is heard before a jury.
2. Opening statements – Attorneys for both parties present an overview of their arguments.
3. Presentation of evidence – Witness testimonies, medical records, accident reports, and expert opinions are introduced.
4. Cross-examination – Attorneys question witnesses to challenge their credibility.
5. Closing arguments – Each side presents a final summary of their case.
6. Jury deliberation or judge’s decision – If the case is heard before a jury, they deliberate before reaching a verdict. If a judge hears the case, they issue a ruling.

A typical car accident trial lasts anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the number of witnesses and the complexity of the legal arguments. Individuals preparing for trial can review our results page to see how Levitsky Law Firm PLLC has handled personal injury cases in the past.

Post-Trial Phase: Appeals and Compensation

After the trial concludes, additional time may be required for post-trial motions or appeals. If the court awards compensation to the injured party, the at-fault driver’s insurance company may pay the damages immediately, or they may appeal the decision, further extending the timeline.

For those who win their case, compensation may cover:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering

An accident lawyer in Brooklyn can help enforce court judgments and ensure clients receive the compensation they are awarded.

Dedicated Representation for Car Accident Lawsuits

While many personal injury cases settle before trial, those that go to court require careful preparation and legal representation. An attorney can help guide clients through the legal process, ensuring their case is presented effectively. Individuals seeking legal assistance can read client testimonials to learn about the experience of working with Levitsky Law Firm PLLC.

Levitsky Law Firm PLLC represents individuals in car accident trials, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their injuries. Our firm is committed to protecting clients’ rights and handling every stage of litigation with diligence. If you have a pending case or are preparing for trial, contact us today for a consultation.