How Long Does a Truck Accident Lawsuit Take in Wisconsin?

Truck accidents can leave victims and their families facing substantial losses, and this makes it important to file a lawsuit when warranted. When victims and families have grounds to file a lawsuit, they can seek compensation for all of their financial and non-financial losses—from their medical bills and loss of income to their pain, suffering, and emotional trauma. 

Filing a truck accident lawsuit is a detailed and specialized process, and this process takes time. But, it can be well worth it in the end. While there are no guarantees, successful truck accident lawsuits can result in substantial settlements and verdicts, and most successful cases settle without going to trial. 

The Duration of a Truck Accident Lawsuit Varies from Case to Case

Regarding how long a truck accident lawsuit takes in Wisconsin, the answer varies from case to case. Several factors can influence the amount of time it takes to assert your legal rights. Some examples of these factors include:

• The trucking company and insurance company (or companies) involved 
• The evidence that is available to prove liability
• The severity of your (or your loved one’s) injuries 
• The amount of compensation you are entitled to recover
• Whether multiple parties share liability for the accident 
• Whether the insurance companies accuse you (or your loved one) of being partially at fault
• How soon you hire an experienced truck accident lawyer to represent you

Another key factor is whether your case settles or you need to take your case to trial. If you have clear evidence of liability and the insurance companies are willing to negotiate in good faith, your case could be over relatively quickly (perhaps in a matter of months). However, if a fair settlement is not on the table, you may have no choice but to go to court. If you need to fight for just compensation in court, the process could easily take a year or longer. 

The Truck Accident Lawsuit Timeline 

While the amount of time it takes to resolve a truck accident case depends on the specific circumstances involved, all truck accident lawsuits follow the same basic timeline. The major steps in the process are as follows:

1. Forensic Investigation 

The first step is to conduct a comprehensive forensic investigation. This investigation should take place as soon after the truck accident as possible, and it will typically involve examining the scene of the accident as well as each of the vehicles involved. 

2. Liability Analysis 

After examining the evidence that is available, your truck accident lawyer will be able to conduct a liability analysis. The purpose of this analysis is to determine which company (or companies) deserve to be held legally responsible (or “liable”) for your accident-related losses. 

3. Damages Calculation 

If you are entitled to compensation for your (or your loved one’s) truck accident, you also need to know how much you are entitled to recover.  

4. Lawsuit and Discovery 

Once you have a clear understanding of your legal rights, the next step is to file a lawsuit. Once your lawyer files a lawsuit on your behalf, your lawyer will be able to take “discovery.” This involves obtaining additional evidence from the liable party (or parties) as well as any third parties that may have information that is relevant to proving your legal rights. 

5. Settlement Negotiations

In most cases, truck accident lawsuits will involve settlement negotiations at some stage of the process. Your truck accident lawyer will negotiate on your behalf, and your lawyer will help you make an informed decision if a settlement offer is on the table. 

6. Trial (if Necessary) 

Finally, if necessary, your lawyer will take your case to trial. As we said above, this is not necessary in many cases. But, if going to trial is what it takes to assert your legal rights successfully, it will be important for you to have a lawyer who has a proven record of success in court. 

The sooner you hire a lawyer to investigate the accident, the sooner your lawyer can start fighting for the financial compensation you deserve. Taking action promptly can also help maximize your chances of recovering just compensation. With this in mind, if you need help after a serious or fatal truck accident in Wisconsin, we strongly encourage you to schedule a free consultation right away. 

Speak with a Wisconsin Truck Accident Lawyer for FREE

To schedule a free consultation with an experienced Plover truck accident lawyer, contact us today. 

Contact the Wisconsin truck accident lawyers at Studinski Law, LLC today online or at (715) 343-2850 for a FREE case evaluation. We proudly serve all of Wisconsin, including Plover, Marshfield, Stevens Point, and other areas.