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How Long Do Compensation Claims Take?

Unfortunately asking “how long do compensation claims take” is a bit like asking how long is a piece of string.

There are so many variables there is no definitive answer.

Obviously it is in the claimant’s and his legal team’s best interests that the case is settled as quickly as possible.

However, a swift conclusion may not give the claimant what he wants. If the case is dealt without proper preparation it may result in the claim being lost, or a much lower level of compensation being awarded than expected.

Cases involving claims for compensation can last from several months to several years.

While the wait may be tiresome, and even put the claimant under increased financial pressure, surely a prolonged case where the outcome produces a just amount of compensation will be worth the wait.

Why do compensation claims take so long?

There are several factors which may prolong any compensation claim. To make a claim, the claimant has to prove that he was not responsible for his injury or loss, while proving  that someone else was.

Proving who was responsible is sometimes relatively easy. For example, if the case involves an earlier police investigation, [eg an injury caused by a criminal act or road traffic accident], then who was responsible has already been proved.

If the person or organisation being claimed against admits liability, then the compensation claim may be settled reasonably quickly.

It is when they deny liability[ ie refuse to accept that they were responsible] that the case is likely to drag on, with the compensation solicitors from both sides going head to head in an attempt to prove or disprove responsibility.

Even when liability is admitted, there are often still arguments over the claim – for example over the extent of the injuries or the fair level of compensation.

In a personal injury complaint the defendant’s legal team may challenge the claimant’s medical report.

This may lead to expert witnesses having to be brought into court, delaying the process even further.

So, really the answer to the question ‘how long do compensation claims take?’ is dependent on the evidence, attitude of the defendant and their solicitors, the court, whether the claim is accepted and the value of the award requested.

If you would like to make a claim for compensation – whether it’s an accident, medical negligence or professional negligence claim – and are wondering how long it will take to process, just ask the Experts here at How To Claim Compensation today. Our experienced professionals deal with compensation claims daily and will be able to advise you on the information you need. What’s more, your information is confidential, without obligation and you will get a personal response in under an hour.

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