After being involved in a car accident, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is whether to settle your case out of court or proceed to trial. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, and understanding the factors involved can help you make an informed decision. Here’s a closer look at settlement versus trial and how to determine which option is best for your car accident case.
Settlement:
Settling a car accident case with the help of a car accident lawyer involves reaching an agreement with the opposing party or their insurance company outside of court. This typically occurs through negotiations facilitated by your car accident lawyer and the opposing party’s representatives. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to pursue a settlement:
Time: Settlements generally resolve cases more quickly than trials. Avoiding prolonged litigation means you can receive compensation sooner, which can be beneficial if you’re facing mounting medical bills and other expenses.
Certainty: Settling your case provides a level of certainty regarding the outcome. Once an agreement is reached, you know exactly how much compensation you’ll receive and can avoid the uncertainty and risk associated with trial.
Privacy: Settlements are typically confidential, meaning the details of the agreement remain private. This can be advantageous if you prefer to keep the details of your case out of the public eye.
Control: In a settlement, you have more control over the outcome of your case. You can negotiate terms that address your specific needs and concerns, rather than relying on a judge or jury to make a decision.
Trial:
If a fair settlement cannot be reached or if you believe that going to trial is in your best interest, you may choose to pursue litigation. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to go to trial:
Fairness: Some individuals may feel that they’re being offered an unfair settlement amount and believe they’re entitled to more compensation. Going to trial allows you to present your case before a judge and jury, who will determine a fair outcome based on the evidence presented.
Principle: For some, the principle of seeking justice through the legal system is paramount. Going to trial allows you to hold the negligent party accountable for their actions and seek appropriate compensation for your injuries and damages.
Growth for higher compensation: While there are no guarantees in litigation, going to trial may result in a higher compensation award than what was offered in settlement negotiations. A successful trial outcome could lead to greater financial recovery for your losses.
