Accident victims in Myrtle Beach often feel overwhelmed after the incident. The dilemma of settling the matter out-of-court or filing a lawsuit can be very confusing.
The main focus of accident victims is to receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Myrtle Beach personal injury lawyers at Joye Law Firm can help you explore the different options that might benefit your case, including accepting a settlement.
Below, we have outlined 5 reasons why victims should consider an out-of-court settlement instead of litigation.
Lawsuits can take months to years before being resolved. A lot of time is spent filing motions, collecting evidence, and waiting for court dates. People must also deal with potential appeals, which further lengthens the process.
An out-of-court settlement is much faster. When victims settle, they receive compensation sooner, which is beneficial for covering medical expenses and other financial burdens. This delay is worth it if a fair settlement can be quickly negotiated.
Taking a case to trial can be very expensive. Victims must cover legal fees, court filing costs, and expert witnesses. Considering the length of trials, all these costs can pile up quickly and overwhelm victims.
When you settle out-of-court, you avoid all these legal costs. With fewer costs, most of the compensation directly goes to the victim. Therefore, settling can be a very cost-effective option for most injury cases.
Unfortunately, you are never guaranteed to win a court case. The jury and judge may not rule in your favor. A judge’s interpretation of the law and jury biases can compromise your case.
Even if you have a strong case and evidence, there is a chance of getting very little compensation.
Out-of-court settlements give the victim and their legal team more control over the outcome. Parties can negotiate fair terms; ultimately, the victim has the final say.
Out-of-court settlements provide a sense of security, and the lack of risks associated with a trial makes settlements optimal for victims.
4. Privacy and Confidentiality
Trials are public records and open to scrutiny. The accident details, financial compensation, and medical history will be accessible to everyone. For many victims, this can be very overwhelming since most of these details are sensitive and personal.
On the other hand, out-of-court settlements are confidential. You can also choose to seal these records. Privacy benefits victims who prefer to keep their legal matters and settlement amounts out of the public eye.
Going through a court trial can take an emotional toll on victims. Cross-examination in court intimidates even the strongest individuals. Victims are left feeling anxious, which could undermine their testimony and credibility.
Out-of-court settlements are less confrontational and can be completed without enduring emotional turmoil. Victims will have enough time to focus on healing and recovery without being drawn into lengthy trials. When the experience is less overwhelming, victims can move on faster.
For many victims, out-of-court settlements are more optimal. The resolution process is faster, the costs are lower, and your legal matters are kept private. While every case is different, exploring the option of settling out-of-court is practical for those seeking compensation.
