How Long Does it Take to Get a Settlement after a Deposition?

There is no denying that the aftermath of a Minnesota car accident can be incredibly frustrating and confusing. In addition to dealing with injuries and property damage, car accident victims are often left in limbo when it comes to securing a settlement for their expenses caused by the incident. In some car accident cases, a victim may have to give a deposition. If your case has reached this point, you are likely wondering how long it will take to get your settlement after you give the deposition.

 

Mankato Car Accident Timelines Vary

We wish we could give a solid answer to how long your car accident settlement will take, but there is no set timeline for these incidents in Minnesota. Most car accident claims are settled out-of-court and through insurance carriers. Minnesota is a no-fault accident state, which means that drivers turn to their respective personal injury protection (PIP) coverage to pay for their medical expenses and lost wages. However, it may be necessary to file a personal injury lawsuit against an at-fault driver if certain injury thresholds are met:

• You sustained at least $4,000 in reasonable medical expenses due to the accident and/or
• You suffered at least 60 days of disability, permanent injury, or permanent disfigurement due to the accident.

If these thresholds are met, you are allowed to step outside of the no-fault system and file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for all of the expenses typically covered under PIP as well as pain and suffering damages and any other available non-economic damages.

How Does a Deposition Lead to a Settlement in Minnesota?

Depositions typically take place after a lawsuit is filed but before the case goes to trial. A deposition is when attorneys from both sides of the case have a chance to ask questions to any witnesses under oath. This is done in preparation for the trial so both sides have a good understanding of the facts of the case before setting foot in front of a jury. If you give a deposition as the injured party, you will be questioned by both your Mankato, MN car accident lawyer and the attorney for the at-fault party.

There are a few scenarios that could affect the timeline of you receiving a settlement at this phase of the lawsuit. Depositions are taken and:

• The at-fault party realizes they may lose the case if they go to trial. They may choose to offer a settlement that comes close to your demands in lieu of taking their chances in front of the jury.
• The other side thinks they have a strong case but still wishes to avoid the time and expense of a trial. They may offer a settlement that is well below what you initially demanded.
• Both sides are confident with their case and choose to go to trial. This may lead to a longer period of time before receiving a settlement because you are choosing to let the jury decide, and a trial date may not be available for some time.

Contact a Mankato Car Accident Lawyer 

A skilled Mankato car accident attorney will thoroughly review all this information with you to help you make the best choice so you receive full compensation for your claim. Unfortunately, there is no set timeline for how long it takes to receive compensation at any point throughout the car accident settlement process. A deposition is just one factor that can affect the timeline.