Do I Have to Go to Court for a Car Accident?

After a car wreck, your first priority will be making sure that you and anyone in the car with you is okay. Once that has been settled and you’ve received any necessary emergency care for your injuries, you’ll likely move on to wondering about how you’re going to pay for everything.

Many people worry about seeking compensation through a personal injury claim because they’re concerned that it automatically means they’ll have to go to court for the crash. This is a completely normal worry, as no one wants to go to trial, even when they’re completely in the right.

Another frequent concern is that retaining a lawyer to help with your case will make it more likely that you’ll wind up in court. In fact, the opposite is actually true.

Settling out of Court

For the majority of cases, compensation can be settled out of court through negotiations. Getting full compensation in this way becomes more likely when you have a powerful case that puts you in a strong negotiating position. An attorney from our firm will take the necessary steps to investigate your accident and present all the evidence to the insurance companies on your behalf.

The process of settling out of court can be complicated and may take some time to complete. The insurance companies will try to settle quickly and for as little money as possible, but your lawyer will know better. We won’t be satisfied with anything less than a settlement that covers all of your damages and losses.

Going to Trial

Trial should only be necessary if the other side simply refuses to make you a reasonable settlement offer. If it is necessary for you to go to court, your lawyer will take care of everything involved and ensure that you’re prepared. 

One reason that these types of accidents may go to court is if both drivers have some fault in causing the crash. Louisiana’s comparative fault law allows a jury to decide what percentage at fault each party is. Because your percentage of negligence will reduce your potential compensation, it’s imperative that we build a case that fully demonstrates the other party’s liability.

Contact a Baton Rouge Automobile Accident Lawyer

A car accident doesn’t stop with the crash. The aftermath includes medical bills, legal proceedings, and insurance battles that can be tough for anyone to handle alone.

We understand that going to court isn’t something you necessarily want to do, so in order to make the process easier, contact Spencer Calahan Injury Lawyers by completing the form below or by giving us a call at 225-387-2323. Schedule your free consultation and get started with your claim today.