January 16, 2014

A Personal Injury Case Using a Los Angeles Lawyer has Two Award Options

A Personal Injury Case Using a Los Angeles Lawyer has Two Award Options  

Filing a personal injury claim against another party using a local Los Angeles lawyer can result in two different options for receiving a monetary award. It is important you understand the differences between the two and how they could ultimately affect the amount you potentially receive. Just remember, your attorney is working in your best interests, so they will recommend which one they believe is best for your situation.

Your first option in a personal injury case is to try to come to a settlement with the other party’s insurance company. This type of award is based upon an amount negotiated between your Los Angeles accident lawyer and the lawyers representing the insurance company. Taking a settlement option may be less than the maximum amount initially filed in your law suit. However, it is often a substantial amount and is enough to fully cover any related medical expenses, lost wages from work, and other damages. One benefit to reaching a settlement is avoiding a court case.

Your other option is to have your personal injury lawyer take your case to court when a settlement cannot be reached. This option requires you have sufficient evidence to support your claim against the other party. Evidence includes accident reports, medical reports, and other such testimony from experts familiar with your injuries and how they have affected your quality of life. In order to receive an award, a verdict must be issued by the judge or jury in your favor. Court cases do take longer and cost more than reaching a settlement. Your attorney will discuss both options in detail and how they are going to affect the total amount of your monetary award.