When you suffer an injury due to someone else’s negligence, you have the option to settle your claim or to pursue a legal case in court. Both avenues have their advantages and disadvantages, and understanding them can help you to make an informed decision on what you should do next.
Settling Your Personal Injury Claim
Settling a personal injury claim involves negotiating with the responsible party’s insurance company or with the liable party directly. Here are the pros and cons of choosing to settle your claim.
Pros
Time and Cost
Settling a claim is typically quicker and less expensive than going to court. It avoids the lengthy litigation process, which can drag on for months or even years. This helps saves you time and sometimes expensive legal fees.
Certainty
By reaching a settlement, you have control over the outcome and can ensure a definite resolution. There is no certainty associated with a jury’s trial verdict, which could potentially be in favor of the defendant.
Reduced Stress
Settling a claim helps you avoid the emotional toll and stress associated with a trial. This helps you to focus on your recovery allowing you to move on with your life sooner.
Cons
Potential Undervaluation
Insurance companies may offer a lower settlement amount than what you might receive in court. When you settle, an insurance company will try to minimize their financial liability. This means that they may not fully account for your pain and suffering, future medical expenses, as well as your lost earning capacity.
Limited Compensation
Once you accept a settlement, you forfeit the right to pursue further compensation related to the incident. If your injuries worsen or new complications arise later, you will not be able to seek compensation for any additional damages.
Lack of Accountability
Settling a claim means foregoing the opportunity to hold the responsible party accountable in a public forum. The wrongdoer may not face the level of public scrutiny or deterrent effect that a court trial can provide.
Going to Court for a Personal Injury Case
Opting for a personal injury lawsuit involves taking your case to court, where a judge or jury decides the outcome. Here are the pros and cons of going to court:
Pros
Potentially Higher Compensation
A successful trial verdict can lead to higher compensation, especially if the defendant is found liable for punitive damages. Juries may award significant sums to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Legal Protections
Going to court ensures that your case is subjected to the rules of evidence and legal standards, providing a fair opportunity to present your claim and supporting evidence. It ensures due process and an impartial decision-maker.
Public Awareness
Courtroom proceedings are a matter of public record, which can bring attention to your case and potentially influence public opinion. This can create awareness about the issue at hand, potentially leading to policy changes or preventative measures.
Cons
Lengthy Process
Lawsuits can be time-consuming, sometimes taking years to reach a resolution. The legal process involves various stages, including discovery, potentially an appeals process, which can cause delays and frustration.
Higher Costs
Litigation expenses, such as attorney fees, expert witness fees, court fees, and other legal costs, can quickly accumulate during a trial. The financial burden may be significant, particularly if the case becomes protracted.
Uncertain Outcome
While court trials can lead to favorable outcomes, there’s always the risk of an unfavorable outcome. Juries can be unpredictable, and there’s not guarantee that you will receive the compensation you seek.
The decision to settle your case or take it to trial can be difficult, and you may not know what the best choice to make is.Consulting with a skilled personal injury lawyer can help make this decision more clear. The best personal injury lawyers at LifeLaw Personal Injury are here to help provide you with any legal advice you desire, as well as fight for the best outcome for your case. To discuss your options further contact LifeLaw Personal Injury for a free consultation today.