Life rarely goes as planned. The unexpected can present itself in nearly any form, but one of the most upsetting and traumatic surprises comes in the form of an accident that causes injuries. Whether the mishap that injures you or a loved one is a vehicle crash or a slip and fall while you are away from home, the injuries sustained can put all of your life plans on hold for an indefinite period.
When the accident that injures you or a family member is one that was clearly due to someone else’s carelessness or negligence, there may be a way to help you recover some money to help pay for some or all of the accident related expenses. Each person’s story is unique and it is always best to consult with a personal injury Attorney in Chicago to see if your specific situation is one that could form the basis for a lawsuit.
Civil suits for personal injury are often taken care of in just a matter of weeks or months, and without the need for a trial in front of a jury. The attorney who represents a claimant in a personal injury case will always begin the civil action with attempts to negotiate a settlement out of court. These negotiations will generally take place directly with the representative who is from the insurance company of the person or corporation who is named as the defendant in your civil suit.
When an agreement is reached, the need for a trial has been avoided and the case can be considered settled upon execution of the agreement. If there is no success in settlement attempts made directly, then a third party neutral, such as a mediator is usually the next step. Mediated settlements have the voluntary agreement of both sides, making them often preferable to one that may be imposed by an arbitrator, who behaves more like a judge.
Consulting with an attorney who works in the personal injury area of law is one of the most responsible things that an injured person can do. If they are able to file a suit and to prevail via settlement or verdict, the financial burdens that their accident has caused them can be alleviated.
