When pursuing a personal injury claim, one critical decision you’ll face is whether to settle or go to trial. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of both options, helping you make an informed decision that best serves your interests.

Settling a Personal Injury Case:

Settling a personal injury case involves reaching an agreement with the at-fault party or their insurance company before going to trial. Here are some of the benefits of settling:

1. Faster Resolution: Settlements typically resolve cases more quickly than going to trial, allowing you to receive compensation sooner.
2. Reduced Costs: Trials can be expensive due to legal fees, expert witnesses, and court costs. Settling often reduces these expenses.
3. Certainty: With a settlement, you know the exact amount of compensation you’ll receive, eliminating the uncertainty of a trial outcome.
4. Privacy: Settlements are usually private, whereas trial proceedings are public records.

Going to Trial:

Going to trial means presenting your case to a judge and jury for a decision. Here are some potential benefits of taking your case to trial:

1. Potentially Higher Compensation: In some cases, a trial verdict can result in a higher compensation amount than what’s offered in a settlement.
2. Principle and Accountability: Trials hold the negligent party accountable for their actions and may provide a sense of justice.
3. Precedent: A favorable trial verdict can set a precedent for similar cases and benefit future claimants.
4. Negotiating Leverage: The possibility of going to trial can give you stronger negotiating leverage during settlement discussions.

Ultimately, the decision to settle or go to trial should be based on the specifics of your case, your objectives, and the advice of your personal injury attorney. Each option has its merits, and your attorney can help you weigh the pros and cons to determine the best course of action for your situation.

About Coffman Law Offices, P.C.

Coffman Law is Chicago’s leading personal injury law firm and is committed to providing superb legal representation for people who are suffering from severe personal injuries or are dealing with the loss of a loved one due to negligence or misconduct. Coffman Law is results-driven law firm focused on ensuring that clients receive the compassion, attention, and consideration that they need to seek adequate compensation for injuries or loss. The firm is led by Owner and Founding Partner Brian Coffman, who has dedicated his career to helping accident victims navigate the legal system and obtain compensation for their injuries.