The thought of seeking compensation for the harm and loss caused by a car accident by filing legal action can be daunting. You may be dealing with significant injuries or serious losses, and a court case may be the last thing on your mind.
Fortunately, not all car accidents automatically lead to a legal battle. In fact, most car accident claims are resolved without going to court. For instance, if the accident is minor and both parties agree on the facts of the accident and the settlement due, this negates the need for a court process. However, there are instances when going to court may be necessary to get compensation for your harm and losses. Below are common examples of such situations.
When liability or settlement is disputed
Liability is an important factor in car accident claims, as it can affect the amount of compensation due to you. If you are partially responsible for your own harm, the amount of compensation that another party will be responsible for will be reduced by the proportion of fault assigned to you.
When there is a disagreement over liability and negotiations fail to resolve the dispute, going to court may become a necessary option. In court, a judge will carefully assess the circumstances of the crash to determine the degree of fault of the parties involved.
Similarly, if there is a deadlock with an insurer on the amount of compensation owed, you may have to resort to court. This mostly happens in accidents involving significant damages, serious injuries or fatalities. The litigation process involves a court appearance where you will present relevant evidence and argue your case. A judge or jury will determine the appropriate settlement after assessing all the aspects of your claim.
Seek the necessary assistance
Other scenarios may necessitate legal action, like a delayed settlement or other bad-faith insurance practices. As such, it is best to be prepared for any eventuality by seeking legal guidance to help protect your interests and increase the chances of benefitting from a fair resolution.