Auto accidents happen every day, but that doesn’t make them normal or routine. First-timers especially can feel overwhelmed trying to handle claims and their own recovery.
The good news is that most car accident claims are solved through the settlement process. However, there are some situations where filing a lawsuit is the best option. Here is a brief guide to what to expect in a court case for car a accident, and how you can mentally prepare for these situations.
Reasons Why a Car Accident Case Ends Up in Court
There are several situations where you may need to take your auto accident case to court.
The Insurance Company Won’t Agree to a Fair Settlement
Sadly, there are situations where a company will give you a lowball offer and refuse to budge. This is when you need the expertise of a personal injury attorney. They will help you gather the right evidence to demonstrate your damages and put pressure on the company to adjust their offer. If the company won’t budge, your attorney will help you file a lawsuit in the proper court.
The Involved Parties Can’t Agree on Fault
Legally speaking, fault is a question of fact that is a primary element of an accident case. If the drivers (or their insurance companies) can’t agree on who caused the accident, the case will go to court. Then it is the court’s role to make a legal ruling on fault.
Driver Has No Insurance
Although auto insurance is required by law, some people still don’t have it. To get compensation for your damages, a civil court case may be the best option.
Going to Court Is YOUR Decision Alone
A personal injury attorney can give you their opinion on the strength of your case, but filing a lawsuit is ultimately your decision. Litigation can be stressful, time-consuming, and costly, even when you feel you have a strong case. The decision to go to trial is yours alone. The good news is that many lawsuits will reach a settlement agreement before a trial even starts. But if you do file a lawsuit, I trial is certainly a strong possibility.
What Can I Expect If I Go to Court?
Going to court for a car accident settlement is rare, but it does happen. There is a lot more to a car accident lawsuit than being in the courtroom. This includes discovery (evidence gathering) and other pre-trial phases, as well as opportunities for both sides to negotiate. Many plaintiffs may receive out-of-court settlement offers.
If you and your lawyer are pleased with the offer, you may choose to accept it and avoid trial altogether. However, you should definitely talk to a car accident attorney before accepting any offer.
Injured in an Auto Accident? Contact the Harris Law Firm Today
If you suffered injuries and property damage in an auto accident due to someone else’s negligence, you deserve fair compensation to make you whole again.
At the Harris Law Firm, we are here to help. With nearly four decades of experience, our attorneys know the law and have a track record of successful decisions in big and small cases alike.
We represent clients in Mississippi and Arkansas, and are dedicated to getting you the compensation you deserve. Call us to schedule a free consultation at (877) 714-4171, or fill out our online contact form.
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