If you’ve been injured in an accident in Colorado—whether it was a car crash, a slip and fall, or another type of personal injury—it’s only natural to wonder: how long does a Colorado personal injury case take? The answer isn’t always straightforward. Every case is unique, but there are common timelines, stages, and factors that affect how long it takes to settle or go to trial.
This blog will walk you through the typical timeline of a personal injury case in Colorado, what influences the process, and what you can realistically expect along the way.
The Timeline of a Colorado Personal Injury Case
So, how long does a Colorado personal injury case take from start to finish? For many people, the process lasts anywhere from several months to over a year. Some cases resolve in as little as six months, while others—especially those that go to trial—can take two years or more.
Why such a big range? It comes down to a few key factors:
The severity of your injuries (and how long it takes for you to heal).
The complexity of the case (for example, whether multiple parties are involved).
The insurance company’s willingness to negotiate in good faith.
Whether your case settles or goes to trial.
What Happens During a Personal Injury Case in Colorado?
To understand the timeline, let’s break down the major steps:
1. Medical Treatment and Recovery
The first step is always your health. After an accident, you need to seek medical treatment and continue care until you’ve reached “maximum medical improvement” (MMI). This means your doctor believes you’ve healed as much as possible.
Why does this matter? Because until you know the full extent of your injuries, it’s difficult to calculate fair compensation. If you settle too soon, you may miss out on coverage for ongoing medical bills or long-term effects.
2. Investigation and Building Your Case
Once your attorney is on board, they’ll start investigating. This can include collecting medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony. This stage often takes several weeks to months depending on how complex the case is.
3. Negotiations with Insurance Companies
Most personal injury cases in Colorado don’t go to trial—they’re settled through negotiation. Your lawyer will present a demand letter outlining damages like medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The insurance company will usually respond with a counteroffer, and negotiations go back and forth.
This stage can be relatively quick (a few weeks) or drag on for months, especially if the insurance company is pushing back.
4. Filing a Lawsuit (If Necessary)
If negotiations don’t lead to a fair settlement, your attorney may file a lawsuit. Just the act of filing can sometimes push the insurance company to come back to the table with a better offer.
But if things move forward in court, expect additional time. Discovery (the exchange of evidence), depositions, motions, and trial preparation can easily add 12–18 months to your case.
5. Settlement or Trial
In many cases, a settlement is reached before trial. But if not, your case will go before a judge or jury. While trials are less common, they can add weeks or months onto the process.
Factors That Influence How Long a Colorado Personal Injury Case Takes
Not all personal injury cases are created equal. Here are some things that can speed up—or slow down—the process:
The Severity of Injuries
The more serious your injuries, the longer it may take to reach maximum medical improvement. And until then, your lawyer won’t want to settle because future treatment costs need to be accounted for.
Liability Disputes
If it’s unclear who caused the accident, or if multiple parties share responsibility, the case can take longer. Disputes about fault often mean more investigation, more back-and-forth, and sometimes litigation.
Insurance Company Tactics
Unfortunately, insurance companies don’t always play fair. They may delay, deny, or lowball claims in hopes you’ll settle for less. A skilled attorney can push back, but it adds time.
Going to Court
If your case heads to trial, expect a much longer timeline. Colorado courts are busy, and trial dates can be months out. But sometimes it’s worth the wait if it means fighting for the compensation you truly deserve.
How Long Does a Colorado Personal Injury Case Take to Settle vs. Go to Trial?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Simple cases with minor injuries: 6–12 months (often settled out of court).
Moderate injury cases with some disputes: 12–18 months.
Complex cases or those that go to trial: 18–24+ months.
Remember, these are averages—not guarantees. Your case may resolve faster, or it may take longer.
Why Working with a Colorado Personal Injury Lawyer Matters
If you’re wondering how long does a Colorado personal injury case take, one of the biggest influences is whether you have the right lawyer by your side. An experienced personal injury attorney can:
Keep your case moving forward.
Push back against insurance company delays.
Make sure you don’t settle too soon.
Prepare your case for trial if needed.
And yes, you may also be wondering: what percentage do personal injury lawyers take in Colorado? (We’ve covered that in detail in this related blog for you).
Final Thoughts: Patience Pays Off
So, how long does a Colorado personal injury case take? The truth is—it depends. On average, expect at least several months, but don’t be surprised if it takes a year or more. While that can feel frustrating, waiting often works in your favor. It ensures your medical needs are fully understood, your damages are properly calculated, and you’re not leaving money on the table.
If you’ve been injured and want to know more about your specific situation, don’t wait. Reach out to a Colorado personal injury lawyer who can give you a personalized timeline and help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call to Action
If you or a loved one has been injured in Colorado and you’re wondering about your legal options, our team is here to help. Schedule a free consultation today, and let’s talk about your case.