Oak Lawn Car Accident Settlements

When you are involved in a car wreck that was not your fault, it is only fair that you get the compensation you deserve. To do so, you will have to file a claim against the negligent driver. When this happens, the defendant and you will either come to an agreed payment or you and the defendant will go to trial. If you have been in a car collision and want to file a claim, seek the services of a professional lawyer who is experienced with Oak Lawn car accident settlements.

Legal Options

When a person is in a car accident in Oak Lawn, they have a couple of legal options. First, they can try to handle the case on their own. However, a person may not know what to expect following a wreck. It is good for a person to do some research and review other helpful resources. What a person should not do is listen to what the insurance adjuster says should happen.

Why is it Difficult to Handle a Case Alone?

An insurance adjuster looks out for the interests of the insurance company. An insurance company is in the business of making money, not paying claims. Rather than handling the case without representation, the injured person should speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. A personal injury lawyer will not get paid until the end of the case and only when there is a recovery. There is a lot at stake in a personal injury case, so a person should seek the professional advice of a lawyer to learn more about Oak Lawn car accident settlements.

Initial Consultation With an Attorney

The initial consultation with a personal injury attorney is free. It does not cost a person anything to meet and discuss their claim. At the initial consultation, a person should bring their paperwork from the hospital, police, and insurance company. The attorney will ask the person how they were injured and about their medical treatment. Most importantly, a lawyer explains the legal process following an accident and how to determine the value of their wreck. There are many steps involved and important factors that can have an impact on the recovery. A lawyer explains the issues to the person and advises them on the best way to proceed with their case at the free, initial consultation.

Who Decides Whether to Settle or Go to Trial?

The decision to settle a case is always left to the plaintiff. It is the injured person’s case, not the lawyer’s or the insurance companies. A lawyer gives advice and counsel to the person on whether a settlement is the best course of action. There are countless factors involved in deciding whether to settle a case. They consist of the facts of the accident including liability, injuries, medical treatment, and the amount of insurance involved. The issue of whether a person must pay back health insurance, Medicare, public aid, or unpaid medical bills has an impact on the decision to settle a case. Finally, the cost of going to court increases the expenses that come out of the settlement. Court cases can take several years to resolve. This also affects the decision on whether to settle a case.

Reasons to go to Trial in Oak Lawn

There are many reasons why a person may wish to go court instead of settling. The most important factor is the amount of the offer of the Oak Lawn car accident settlement. If the insurance company does not offer what a person’s case is worth, their attorney may advise them to go to court. Also, if the insurance company continues to refuse to offer what the case is worth, the attorney may advise the plaintiff to take the case to trial. There are many factors that must be considered when making these decisions. A lawyer could explain the positive and negative issues so that you can make an informed decision. Speak with a qualified car accident attorney to learn more about Oak Lawn car accident settlements and what options are best for you.