While it’s hard to provide a firm answer without having a lawyer review the facts of your case, car accident cases can settle in as little as a few months or take as long as several years. Generally, the more complex the accident and the more serious your injuries, the longer the case will take to settle. However, remember that settlement is not the only way to win your case; through an experienced spine injury lawyer, you can also take your case in front of a judge or jury.