Do I Have to Go to Court After a Car Accident in Pennsylvania?

Car accidents are common, and the consequences can be devastating. If you sustain injuries in an accident due to another driver’s negligence, you need to pursue compensation for the damages. Depending on your claim’s circumstances, you may have to go to court to pursue legal action against the negligent driver.

However, an out-of-court settlement is the most common outcome in most car accident cases. The arrangement provides a quicker option to get compensation, enabling the claimant to move on with their lives sooner. If you’re wondering whether to go to trial or get an out-of-court settlement, experts from a Pennsylvania settlement funding company can advise you.

What Does the Court Process Entail?

If you decide to go to court, you and the defendant can argue your case. The defendant’s insurance company may say that you don’t have a valid compensation claim. A skilled car accident lawyer can present proof of your claim and show why you should receive compensation for the damages.

Based on the arguments presented by both parties, the jury will deliberate on the outcome, which might take several days. If the judge awards you compensation, the insurance company has 30 days to settle the claim.

However, insurance companies can sometimes take time to process the payment for various reasons. That’s where an auto accident lawsuit funding company in Pennsylvania comes in to award you a portion of the settlement as you await the final payment.

Disadvantages of Going to Trial

One of the most significant disadvantages of a trial is the amount of time involved. Court cases can spread over more than one year. Besides, even after a verdict has been reached, the defendant may appeal the decision, dragging the case on for more months. The compensation amount the court awards you is final, and there is no room for negotiation.

What is the Process of Reaching a Settlement?

An out-of-court settlement entails resolving with the other party before your case goes to trial. With the help of a skilled attorney, you can reach an agreement before filing a lawsuit or at any point in the litigation process, even a day before the trial.

In case you file a lawsuit, you may be able to settle the claim during the discovery stage, depending on the findings and information of the case. A reputable auto accident lawsuit funding company in Pennsylvania can provide access to a portion of the final settlement in advance as you wait for the issue to be resolved.

Do I Need a Lawyer for the Settlement Process?

The settlement process varies from one case to another but generally entails your car accident lawyer sending a demand letter to the negligent party’s insurance company. The letter outlines the reason for the demand, the damages you wish to pursue, and the evidence to support your claim.

The insurance company sends a response, which your attorney will review and send back a counteroffer. Working with a skilled attorney is advantageous because they can evaluate the loopholes to prevent the insurance company from shortchanging you. They have the legal knowledge and skill to fight for the maximum settlement amount you deserve.

What if the Insurance Company Denies My Claim?

Once your lawyer sends a demand letter to the defendant’s insurance company, it has 30 days to respond in writing. Sometimes, it may ask for additional time by providing a valid reason for the time extension. The outcome may be a denial of the claim.

If the insurance company denies your claim, your lawyer can help you pursue further action to get the compensation you deserve. Meanwhile, you can work with a settlement funding company in Pennsylvania to get an advance settlement if your lawyer determines you have a strong case against the defendant.

What Are the Benefits of a Settlement Over Trial?

Court cases can be lengthy and complex. Even after the issue is resolved, you may not immediately receive the settlement you deserve. That can take a toll on you, especially if you are severely injured and cannot earn a living. Piling bills and living expenses may become overwhelming while you wait for the payment.

With legal funding or settlement from a reputable Pennsylvania auto accident lawsuit funding company, you can obtain advance money to help you meet these expenses. The compensation reduces the amount of time it takes to complete your case. Besides, settlements are less expensive than trials, and you can renegotiate the offer, unlike in a court case.

How Much Settlement Can I Expect to Get?

The value of your settlement depends on the severity of the injuries and the impact on your life, ranging from small to medium to large and very large.

  • Small and medium settlement: It ranges between $10,000 and $15,000 for injuries that can be treated without the extraordinary expense, pain, and time on your part.
  • Large settlement: The injury you sustained must be severe, requiring extensive treatment, for example, disc herniation.
  • Very large settlement: The results of the accident must have been tragic, altering your life in the long run. Examples of such injuries are brain injuries and paralysis. The impact of the damage is lifelong on you and your family.

A Reputable Settlement Funding Company Advancing a Fair Settlement to Help You Pay Your Bills

Pursuing compensation for damages after a car accident can take much time, whether through trial or out-of-court settlement. Piling medical bills and living expenses may get the better of you, making you unable to cope with the pressure. The good news is that you can get an advance settlement amount from a reputable Pennsylvania auto accident lawsuit funding company.

The company can work with your lawyer to determine if you have a strong case against the defendant. Once this is established, you receive legal settlement funding as a share of the final judgment to help you settle your medical and living expenses. Contact Universal Funds at (484) 924-9323 to book a FREE case assessment.