Should You Settle a Car Accident Claim or Go to Court?

When you are involved in a car crash, one of your biggest concerns is how you can get compensation for your injuries and financial losses. If you are wondering whether to settle a car accident claim or take your case to court, it’s important to seek guidance from an experienced lawyer.

We will explain the pros and cons of each option and how a Riverdale car accident lawyer can advocate for your rights.

Most Car Accident Claims End in an Out of Court Settlement

When you are involved in a car wreck that isn’t your fault, you’ll file an insurance claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer. In some cases, you may need to file a lawsuit. Even if your attorney files the lawsuit papers, few cases actually go to trial.

Most car accident claims end up being settled outside of court. This means that your lawyer and the at-fault driver’s insurance company negotiate and come to an agreement on how much compensation will be paid without having to go through a trial.

The insurance company will typically offer a settlement amount that they believe is fair based on their evaluation of the case. This initial offer may not always reflect what your case is worth fully. An experienced Riverdale car accident lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.

While most cases settle out-of-court successfully, there are situations where taking the case to trial may be necessary if insurers refuse reasonable offers or deny liability altogether.

A Settlement Saves Time and Court Costs

When you opt for a car accident settlement, this saves costs associated with court fees, expert witnesses, and other litigation expenses. It also allows the case to move forward faster than if things were tied up for months or even years awaiting trial dates.

Going to Court Does Not Guarantee That You Will Win

One huge benefit of settling is that it provides more control over the outcome. When a case goes to trial, there is always some element of uncertainty as judges or juries have the final say over the decision. In contrast, settlements provide more predictability since both parties agree on the amount of compensation.

Even if you have what seems like an open-and-shut case, jurors may interpret the evidence differently. Juries may award less money than what you would have received through settlement negotiations. Furthermore, even if your attorney presents strong evidence, an unconvincing testimony from one witness could undermine your entire case.

A driver who needs a Riverdale car accident lawyer

An Unconvincing Testimony May Undermine Your Case

When it comes to car accident claims, your testimony plays a crucial role in determining the outcome of the case. An unconvincing testimony, due to stress and 0r being nervous, may weaken your case and make it difficult for you to win the amount you deserve. Plaintiffs who are inconsistent or contradict themselves during cross-examination could be seen as unreliable.

Your lawyer will prepare you for questioning by insurance adjusters and opposing counsel; they’ll help you avoid common mistakes that may damage your credibility during the trial. However, you can never be sure how you will react once you take the stand and face the court.

Your Lawyer Will Still Prepare for the Possibility that the Insurer Refuses to Settle

One thing to keep in mind is that even if you file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, there’s no guarantee that they will offer a fair settlement. In some cases, insurers may try to deny or undervalue claims in an attempt to protect their bottom line.

That’s why it’s crucial to work with an experienced Riverdale car accident lawyer who understands how insurance companies operate and is prepared for any eventuality. Your lawyer will still prepare for the possibility that the insurer refuses to settle by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and building a strong case.

Let an Experienced Riverdale Car Accident Lawyer Help You!

When deciding if you should settle a car accident claim, it is crucial to weigh your options carefully. If you have been involved in a car wreck and are unsure of what steps to take next, reach out to an experienced Riverdale accident lawyer at Wade Law.

With over 70 years of combined experience and over 10 million dollars recovered for clients, we have what it takes to fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Call us today at 770-282-1188 to schedule a free case review!

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