When you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be offered a settlement in lieu of filing a court case. While this can make life easier, especially if your mobility was affected, you may end up settling for much less than your case is worth. Before you decide whether to accept a settlement, it is wise to contact a lawyer, like a Memphis personal injury lawyer from Patterson Bray and ask a few questions that may help you make the best decision possible.
- How Much Will Court Cost?
The cost of taking an individual or company to court over a personal injury lawsuit can vary widely. Some cases might be simpler than others, and the longer it takes to settle, the higher the cost might be. You may want to consider a variety of cost factors when you talk about the case with your lawyer, which can include court fees, travel expenses and the cost of legwork by the attorney. - What Is the Value of the Case?
If you are offered a settlement, you may not be sure of its value when compared to one you might win in court. While some offers might be fair, others could be offered to mollify you and in exchange for your agreement not to sue in the future. Talking to a lawyer can help you understand the difference between the money you are offered and the actual value of your case. - What If I Was Injured at Work?
Workplace injury settlements may be slightly different than those offered otherwise because of the worker’s compensation laws involved. For example, if you worked for a roofing company an a faulty ladder caused a serious fall and resulted in permanent injuries, you may be offered a settlement, in addition to worker’s compensation money. Your attorney can help you to better understand the law and whether a settlement is a better choice. - What If Fault Is Shared?
It may be determined that the fault of your injury is shared by yourself and the negligent party. For example, if you slipped and fell on untreated ice in front of a store but were scrolling through your phone as you walked, then any settlement offered may be significantly reduced. While shared fault settlements are not as common in personal injury cases, you may want to discuss your with your attorney before you accept any cash.
The decision of whether to accept a personal injury settlement can be a puzzling one, especially when there are certain circumstances that make that choice even more complicated. Contact an attorney today for more information and to schedule an initial consultation.