Being involved in an accident can be painful and traumatic. It is always recommended to pursue legal action against a negligent party to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. If you have never filed a claim or lawsuit you may not understand the details of the legal process. When you file a personal injury case it can be resolved by one of several methods, including going to trial. For assistance in your pursuit of justice and compensation speak with an experienced Geneva, Illinois personal injury lawyer today.
How Can Personal Injury Cases Get Resolved?
A personal injury case can be resolved in a few different ways. No two cases are the same so there is not a one size fits all solution. However, one of the following will be used to come to a satisfactory conclusion during your case.
- Settlement: Most personal injury cases get resolved through negotiating a settlement. Your legal team will communicate with your insurance company and the defendant’s legal team and insurance. They will negotiate the amount of compensation you should receive based on the losses you incurred as a result of your injury. Once an agreement has been reached you can accept the settlement offer.
- Mediation: Alternative dispute resolution techniques can also help resolve a personal injury case. Mediation is a meeting that occurs between the involved parties as well as a neutral third party who will help guide the conversation and facilitate productive discussion. Arbitration may be used as well.
- Pre-trial motion: Before going to trial either party can file a pre-trial motion in an attempt to come to an agreement before litigation.
- Trial: Your case may also go to trial. If the above resolution tactics fail then litigation may be the only way that a satisfactory decision can be made. A jury will hear the details of the situation and be given information related to how the accident happened and the extent of your injuries as well as the effect your injury has had on you since the accident occurred.
Will My Case Go to Trial?
Most personal injury cases do not go to trial. Only about 3 to 5% of personal injury matters will see the inside of a courtroom. However, depending on the details of the situation your case may be more or less likely to require a jury’s input. Because of the expenses and long waiting periods involved with getting a court date, both the plaintiff’s and defendant’s legal teams generally try to resolve personal injury cases without going to trial. Negotiating a settlement is the most common way that injury cases are solved.
Do I Need an Attorney?
If you were injured in an accident it is highly recommended that you seek the advice of a skilled legal professional. Your attorney will help you understand the legal process and follow proper procedures to ensure you have the best chance of receiving damages for your injuries and losses. Reach out to a skilled lawyer today.
