It typically takes about 2 months after you have finished your treatment to go into settlement negotiations. In my practice, most people reach maximum medical improvement for their injuries within six months.  If settlement negotiations break down and a lawsuit has to be filed, it can take much longer to go to trial. On average, a trial can take up to 18 months after a lawsuit is filed. However, many cases get resolved after the suit is filed and before trial. This can mean putting money in your pockets that much faster.