Most people do not realize how many accident claims are settled out of court, but most cases are decided before trial. However, there are advantages in taking the case to court. Every case is unique, and multiple factors are at play. In this article is an evaluation of both options: settling the case and taking it to trial.
The Advantages of Settling
Many people choose to settle claims before filing a lawsuit. Below are some of the benefits of settling an accident claim:
• Faster receipt of compensation
• Avoidance of high attorney fees
• Avoidance of appearance at multiple trials, depositions, and hearings
• No unpredictable jury verdicts
An accident lawyer in Pennsylvania can help a client decide whether the risks of trial, and of receiving no compensation, outweigh the difference between the offer and the estimate of the claim’s value.
The Demand Letter
Demand letters are the conventional way of settling claims before trial. There is a substantial amount of evidence gathering to do before the drafting of such a letter. If one receives medical treatment, they must request the entire medical record, which can take several months and entail considerable expense. Those who miss work should have their employment records to document their pre-injury salary as well as time missed because of the injury. When all the records are gathered, an attorney can help the client craft a concise demand letter. When the letter is complete, it should be sent to the at-fault party, their insurer, and their accident lawyer in Pennsylvania.
Trial
As previously mentioned, it is usually advantageous to settle a claim before trial. However, a settlement isn’t always possible or appropriate. The other side may not respond to a demand letter, or the insurer may offer an unreasonable settlement amount. Alternatively, some people just want to have their day in court because of a perceived injustice. A trial is the final step in an accident lawsuit during which the jury or judge will hear evidence and decide the case. Attorneys can help with the time-consuming tasks of representation and case preparation.
Settlement Is Possible at Any Stage
Throughout the court case, and at any time before the verdict, a person and their Website Domain attorney can settle the case if an acceptable offer is received. One does not relinquish their ability to settle the case if they file a legal claim.
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