Most personal injury claims don’t end up in court. They’re handled quietly behind the scenes, through negotiation. And while that might sound like a relief (no courtrooms and no trials), it also puts a lot of pressure on you to make the right decision.
A settlement can help you avoid delays, save money, and skip the stress of going to court. But the tradeoff is serious. If you settle too soon or for too little, you could end up dealing with long-term consequences without enough financial support to cover it all.
Working with personal injury lawyers from the Morris Bart Law Firm gives you the kind of backup you actually need. These lawyers know how to deal with lowball offers from insurance companies, they understand what fair compensation really looks like, and they make sure you don’t get pushed into signing something that leaves you hanging.
They will make sure that you have given full thought to all of the following:
Have You Reached Maximum Medical Recovery?
Another critical consideration is your medical status. Most personal injury cases are primarily about covering medical expenses, and these costs can add up quickly. However, the final settlement should reflect the full extent of your medical needs, including future treatment.
This is why it’s important to wait until you’ve reached what’s called Maximum Medical Recovery (MMR). This is the point when doctors have determined that no further significant recovery is expected.
At this stage, your attorney can accurately assess your medical expenses, both past and future. If you’re still recovering or haven’t received a full prognosis from your doctors, accepting a settlement could leave you facing additional costs down the road.
For some cases, especially serious injuries, life care plans may be required to project future medical needs, which can include ongoing care, medications, or rehabilitation.
Have You Considered All Damages?
Personal injury claims are not just about medical bills. They also include compensation for a range of damages, including:
- Lost income
- Future lost earnings
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment
Calculating non-economic damages, like pain and suffering or emotional distress, can be complex and requires a deep understanding of the law. This is where having an experienced attorney by your side becomes invaluable. They can make sure that every aspect of your suffering is taken into account during the negotiation process.
Have You Considered the Cost of a Personal Injury Claim?
While it’s easy to get caught up in the emotional aspects of your injury, it’s also important to consider the financial side of things. Filing a lawsuit can come with various costs, including investigation fees, court fees, and expert witness costs.
However, reputable law firms operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay anything upfront. They only get paid if you win your case. This ensures that your attorney has a vested interest in securing the best possible settlement or verdict for you.
When deciding whether to accept a settlement or pursue a lawsuit, it’s important to weigh the potential costs of litigation against the potential benefits. Your attorney can help you evaluate these factors to make the most informed decision.
Is a Lawsuit a Better Option?
Sometimes, accepting a settlement isn’t the best choice, especially if the settlement offer doesn’t cover all your needs. In such cases, your attorney may recommend taking your case to court.
A lawsuit can sometimes result in a much higher payout, especially if liability is clear, and you have substantial evidence. A lawsuit may also push the insurance company to offer a more reasonable settlement after seeing your willingness to take the case to court.
However, it’s important to know that filing a lawsuit doesn’t necessarily mean going to court. Many lawsuits are settled during the discovery process before reaching trial. This is why it’s essential to have a skilled attorney who can handle the complexities of litigation and settlement negotiations.
Conclusion
Before accepting a personal injury settlement, it’s crucial to take a step back and evaluate all the factors that can affect your decision. Make sure you’re working with an attorney who can help you assess the full value of your claim, understand your medical recovery, and ensure that all your damages are accounted for.
And most importantly, don’t rush into a settlement. Take your time, ask the right questions, and make sure the offer fully covers the overall compensation that is due to you.
See Also: Why Insurance Companies Pay More When Injury Victims Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer
