What’s the Difference Between Settling a Case or Taking it to Trial?

If you were involved in a bus accident in Fairfax, VA and are wanting to learn a little more about the options you have in terms of getting the compensation you deserve, there are a few choices you have. Keep in mind it is always a good idea to discuss this first with a bus accident lawyer as they are the professionals who can provide you with the best advice. However, to help you better understand your options, below we discuss the difference between a settlement and taking a case to trial.

After sustaining injuries in an accident, there will either be one or more parties you will pursue for compensation for your injuries, pain, suffering, medical bills, lost wages, etc. Before your case is taken to court or presented to a jury, the parties who are at-fault may offer you a settlement. This is usually a lump sum of money to cover accrued expenses and damages that have arisen from the accident.

 

Should I accept a settlement?

 

You are going to want to discuss this with your Fairfax bus crash lawyer as you need to be certain the amount offered in the settlement is fair and adequate. If the insurer, company, or party you are suing offers you a low-ball amount that is only enough to cover your medical bills, you may want to think about asking for more as you likely are entitled to it. Accidents have the tendency to turn a person’s life upside down in all areas, not just in terms of a buildup of medical expenses. So, before choosing to accept a settlement, you need to be positive that the amount offered is enough.

Keep in mind that once you agree to a settlement amount, you are bound by the terms of the agreement. Therefore, if you accept it and it turns out that the money wasn’t enough to cover all your damages, you won’t be able to go back and ask for more. Your case will be closed and you will be barred from taking further legal action against the party you accepted the settlement from.

 

When should I consider taking my bus injury case to trial?

 

In the event you can’t come to an agreement with the party found at-fault or they don’t want to offer you a settlement, you may want to consider discussing taking your case to trial with your Fairfax bus crash lawyer. During a trial, you will be given the opportunity to present your side of the case and will likely do so in front of a jury. There are risks with taking a case to trial so be sure you review with your attorney what these risks are.

Now, if you have yet to retain a bus accident attorney and your accident occurred in Fairfax, VA, call USAttorneys.com today. You will receive help in locating some of the best lawyers in the field to help you. Something to remember is that it is never a good idea to go into a case without legal representation so be sure you get connected with professionals who are capable of assisting you throughout the duration of your case.

 

If you wish to read about Virginia’s court system, click here now to access Virginia’s Judicial System’s website.