If you’ve been seriously injured, the impacts can be overwhelming. Whether you are unable to work, have significant medical issues, or have high medical bills, it may be tempting to opt for a quick settlement. But how do you know if accepting a settlement offer for your personal injury case is really the right choice?
Read on to learn why it’s important not to answer this question on your own.
Don’t Navigate Your Personal Injury Claim Alone
Personal injury and wrongful death law is complex, which is why you should hire a reputable and highly skilled attorney who can guide you through this process. Before you do, ask about the firm’s trial record. Many personal injury lawyers have never tried a case, and of those who have, very few have experience with claims where millions of dollars were at stake.
When an insurance company evaluates your claim, it considers the quality of the attorney it will be up against. Law firms with a record of taking cases to court and achieving substantial results drive higher settlements. The Fitzgerald Law Firm regularly tries personal injury claims and has obtained record-setting verdicts for our clients. So even if you decide to settle your claim, after we file suit, our firm’s experience will help ensure you receive the optimum settlement.
You also need a firm with the financial resources to go to trial if that’s the best option. Many attorneys settle cases out of court because of the high costs of going to trial. In a personal injury claim, your lawyer should front the expenses for any investigations, medical tests, and expert witnesses that are necessary to demonstrate the validity of your claim. At the Fitzgerald Law Firm, we only settle out of court when it’s the right outcome for you, never because of the costs of going to trial. We not only have the resources to go to court, but to uphold our verdicts, which is the true test of any trial attorney.
What to Consider Before You Settle
Your lawyer should thoroughly discuss all aspects of your case in order to help you understand your rights and determine the best course of action. Some of the factors to consider include:
- The extent of your injuries
- The physical evidence supporting your claim
- The evidence provided by the insurance company or other defendant
- The verdicts and settlements obtained in similar cases
- The likelihood of success at trial
Your attorney should also discuss what potential damages you may receive. If your personal injury is the result of negligence, you may be entitled to damages to compensate you for:
- Medical expenses
- Caretaking expenses
- Disability and/or disfigurement
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of income
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional distress
The question of whether to settle your claim or go to trial ultimately depends on your unique circumstances and is best answered with help from an experienced personal injury attorney. Your attorney will help you determine if a proposed settlement is fair and, if not, prepare a counteroffer or take the case to trial.
Let the Fitzgerald Law Firm Help You Make The Right Decision
The Fitzgerald Law Firm specializes in personal injury and wrongful death and holds the record for the largest verdicts ever upheld on appeal in Wyoming. We have dedicated ourselves to helping our clients and their families heal after catastrophic injuries or incidents of wrongful death. We will take the time to help you understand your options and, if necessary, we have the resources to take your case to trial to achieve a just outcome.
So if you’re unsure about whether or not to accept a settlement offer, contact our team today. We’ll help you make the right choice for you and your family.