This is dependent on how injured you are and your recovery time. Once your doctor(s) determine that you have reached medical maximum improvement (MMI) or permanent and stationary (P&S) status, then your doctors are indicating to the employer and to you, that you have reached a level of stability for rating. Once this happens, settlement talks proceed and if there is not settlement, then the case will proceed to trial and the judge will determine what you are entitled to receive.