Timeline to Resolve a Personal Injury Case Involving Lost Wages in Pennsylvania

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified attorney about the specifics of your case.

Detailed Answer

In Pennsylvania, a personal injury lawsuit—including claims for lost wages—typically resolves in stages. The total time varies by case complexity, insurance cooperation and court schedules. Below is a general timeline:

1. Pre-Suit Investigation and Demand (3–6 Months)

• Meet with an attorney and gather medical records, pay stubs and accident reports.
• Calculate your lost-wage claim, including past and future earnings.
• Send a demand letter to the insurer. Negotiations often begin here.

2. Filing the Lawsuit (2–4 Weeks After Failure to Settle)

• If negotiations stall, your attorney files a complaint in the Court of Common Pleas.
• Pennsylvania’s general two-year statute of limitations applies to personal injury claims: see 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524 (link).

3. Discovery Phase (6–12 Months)

• Both sides exchange documents, take depositions and inspect evidence.
• Your attorney may retain economists or vocational experts to value future lost wages.

4. Mediation and Settlement Conferences (1–3 Months)

• Court-ordered or voluntary mediation can narrow issues and lead to settlement.
• Many cases resolve here, avoiding trial delays.

5. Trial Preparation and Hearing (6–18 Months)

• If mediation fails, prepare motions, jury instructions and trial exhibits.
• Court calendars vary; your trial date may fall 6–12 months after mediation ends.

6. Verdict and Appeal (6–24 Months, If Needed)

• After a verdict, either side can file post-trial motions or appeal. Appeals in appellate court add considerable time.

Overall Average: 9 months to 2+ years, depending on insurance cooperation, medical recovery and court backlog.

Helpful Hints

• Document every lost-wage claim: keep pay stubs, tax returns and employer letters.
• Attend all medical appointments. Gaps in treatment can weaken your case.
• Communicate promptly with your attorney and insurance adjuster.
• Consider mediation early to reduce costs and delays.
• Ask about expert witnesses who can value long-term wage losses.
• Be aware of the two-year statute of limitations under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524; missing it usually bars recovery.