DO YOU HAVE TO GO TO COURT FOR INJURY COMPENSATION?

Public speaking is a fear for many people. In fact, surveys show, for many people, public speaking is a greater fear than death. Therefore, it is not surprising that injury victims worry about possibly going to court to get compensation. You have to speak publicly in the courtroom. You are also being evaluated by a jury. New clients often ask our personal injury lawyers, “Will I have to go to court.”

First, it is important to know that most injury cases are settled out of court. By far the majority of our cases are settled with an insurance adjuster. Getting fair injury compensation from the insurance company requires presenting them with appropriate information. Although the settlement may be out of court, you need the same information you would have in court. For example, you may need data from an accident reconstructionist if there is a dispute about fault. Also, it is often important to have witness statements and doctor reports.

Of course, there are cases where we can’t come to an agreement with an insurance adjuster. However, even then, we don’t necessarily end up in court. Sometimes, we just can’t convey the extent of our client’s injury on paper. In other cases, the insurance adjuster may just see the case differently than us and our client. However, as the litigation progresses, the insurance company gets more information during the “discovery” process. Also, the insurance company lawyer may see things differently. The insurance company lawyer may convey a different perspective or additional information that results in a reevaluation by the insurance company, and a fair settlement of your case.

GETTING THROUGH A COURT TRIAL

There are always a few cases that actually do have to go to trial. Sometimes, it just takes a full presentation to a jury to get our client’s message across. In most trials, our clients come away with at least two common observations: (1) The trial was more complicated and formal than they would have thought, and (2) testifying wasn’t as bad as they thought. Yes, it is scary to think about. However, you are talking about yourself and an experience you went through. That is easier than preparing a presentation for a group.

If you are injured in a Minnesota accident, we can help you through the process. Our lawyers work hard to settle your case without going to trial. And, in the unlikely event your case does have to go to trial, we will be there every step of the way. We will make sure you are prepared, and the best possible case is presented to the jury. If we are ultimately not successful, we don’t charge you anything and we don’t get paid.