Should I Settle My Car Accident Injury Claim?
Most personal injuury cases are settled long before they reach court, but settling isn’t the right option for everyone. While settlements can save money, time, and uncertainty, they may also result in lower or insufficient compensation.
Read on to learn more about the potential benefits fo settling and going to court, along with the drawbacks to both. Remember to speak to an attorney before accepting any settlement offers from your insurance or anyone else.
Why Should You Settle?
While you certainly don’t have to accept the first offer that your insurance company gives you, there are still some serious benefits to settling that you should consider.
Compensation is awarded more quickly
Settlements require less time and energy
Settlements incur lower legal costs
Settlements ensure that some amount oof compensation is provided
Ultimately, the specific details of your case ad the offers you’ve received will determine whether or not you should settle. Some factors that could make settling a bad idea include serious injuries and unreasonably low settlement offers.
When Going to Court Is a Good Choice
If you are unable to access a reasonable settlement offer, then a lawsuit may be your best option for relief. Sometimes, simply filing a suit is enough to push the insurance company into offering a better settlement. If you do go to court, there are a few benefits you may have access to:
Larger settlements in cases with guilty verdicts
Potential legal and economic consequences for the insurance company
Punitive damages may be awarded
A court case can draw attention to wrongdoing by insurance companies
Going to court can be risky because the judge or jury may find that you actually don’t qualify for compensation due to the specifics of your case or argument. That’s why it’s highly recommended that you have an experienced attorney on your side to help you decide the best course of action. They can help determine whether or not you have a strong case and enough evidence for court.
The Drawbacks of Court Cases and Settling
While both settling and court cases have their benefits, they also have drawbacks. You should consider both sides and consult with an attorney before deciding on a course of action.
The Risks of Settling
Accepting a settlement could result in you receiving lower compensation than you would have otherwise. Without the chance to argue your claims in court, the settlement process is more of a negotiation, meaning your claims for non-economic losses may be less likely to be accepted. It may be harder for you to access payment for lost wages, emotional distress, and long-term medical expenses.
The Risks of Going to Court
Going to court, on the other hand, can have even more severe consequences. If the court determines that the accident was actually your fault, then you may not receive any compensation, regardless of whether or not a settlement was offered previously. Along with this higher risk, going to court could also result in higher fees and more emotional distress.
The Personal Injury Team at the Law Office of Bobby Garcia Can Help!
If you’ve been injured in a Texs car or truck accident, you and your loved ones may be expecting to face a mountain of expenses and series of legal headaches. The good news is that you don’t have to face that process alone. An experienced attorney can take the weight off your shoulders, giving you a chance to heal.
At the Law Office of Bobby Garcia, you can count on our experienced car crash attorneys to help you decide the best course of action for your auto accident case. Whether you want to settle your case or go to court, our Edinburg law firm will fight to get you the justice you deserve.