From minor crashes to serious collisions, numerous car accidents are reported on California roads on a daily basis. Where these accidents involve negligence, it is not uncommon for a lawsuit to follow.
However, not all car accidents are settled in court. Depending on the circumstances of your case, it might make sense to want to square things out without involving the court. But is this always the right route?
When an out-of-court settlement makes sense
There are plenty of reasons why you may opt for an out-of-court settlement for your car accident case. Top of the list might be the desire for a quick settlement so you can receive the compensation, focus on your recovery and move on with life. Or, you might also want to avoid publicized litigation. Most importantly, an out-of-court settlement can save you money in legal costs.
But settling the matter fast might also mean that your case may be closed before establishing the full extent of your injuries. Remember, once a settlement is reached, you may have a hard time reopening the matter if it becomes apparent that the compensation you received is not sufficient to fully cover your treatment. This can be quite troubling if your injuries turn out to be long-term.
Taking the matter to court
Of course, it is not uncommon for the insurance company to be unreasonable. In this case, your only chance for fair compensation would be to file a lawsuit. And this is where the importance of building a strong case comes in. Some of the evidence you may need to build a strong case include medical reports, witness statements, a police report on how the accident happened and surveillance footage.
A car accident can leave you hurt and shaken. Taking the right steps following the crash can go a long way in ensuring that you receive the settlement you deserve.