Being injured in an accident is a tough situation to be in, regardless of the circumstances the accident happened under. When it happens that you end up getting a thicker end – being injured because of someone else’s fault, then you should start thinking about the best way to pursue what you’re legally entitled to. As you probably already know, you have the right to pursue compensation for what happened, and there are two ways to do that – without a lawyer (accepting the settlement from the insurance company), or investing a bit more effort and go to court, for which you will have to have one.
Most people would think that settling outside the court is the best possible move, but it is advised not to rush and think it through first. This is exactly why we have put together all the pros and cons in this article, so you can base your decision on facts and common sense.
Pros
It’s a quicker choice
Taking things to court means that the process might last some time. At times, it may take months or more, before your case is taken into consideration and the court procedure starts. When it eventually does, how long the process will last depends on the complexity of your case. The more complex it is, the more time it will take to finalize. Such a long process is something often both parties think about avoiding. Thus, they decide to end it quicker – by making a settlement without involving the court. Unlike the court process, insurance companies can solve your issue in a matter of weeks.
It’s a cheaper choice
Court procedures tend to get quite expensive. Summing up all the expenses for testimonies, transcripts, fees, attorneys, and whatnot can get you paying more or almost close to the sum you’re entitled to. If you want to cut down the expenses, then this is not a way to do it.
You’ll know how much to expect
As mentioned above, so many things will have to be compensated for the court process, and above all, you won’t know how much you can expect until the process is complete. This way, you know how much to expect.
Cons
What you settle for outside the court may not be as much as what you can get from the court process
Although everything written above is valid, one can’t help to think what if there was a possibility for a bigger settlement. The main reason people turn for help to people like St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer and decide to bring the case to the court is that there’s a realistic assumption you get a lot more from your injury. Additionally, you have a professional behind your back, working for your benefit. In other words, you’re in safe hands.
You choose to handle your case as you think is best, but take into consideration the stress you’ve suffered. Hiring someone to help you, after all, is way less stressful.