Considering whether to accept a settlement is a standard part of the legal process for recovering compensation in a car accident injury case. However, settlement agreements are complex contracts that you should fully understand before agreeing to sign.
Valero Law Group’s attorneys can use their experience and skill with Stockton car accident settlements to assist you in successfully negotiating your settlement. Their aggressive case strategies enable them to negotiate from a position of strength. If the settlement terms are not satisfactory, they can litigate your case on a contingency fee basis. Call to schedule a free consultation.
What Is an Auto Accident Settlement?
A car accident settlement is an agreement between the injured person (plaintiff) and the defendant in a personal injury case in which the plaintiff agrees to release their claims against the defendant in exchange for cash proceeds. Parties in a Stockton auto collision case can generally agree to a settlement at any time during the legal process leading up to trial.
Contact Valero Law Group today to discuss the potential of settling prior to filing a complaint in court. This is possible in some cases, while others may require initial phases of discovery or pre-trial motions before settling.
The Benefits and Risks of Agreeing to an Auto Accident Settlement
Agreeing to damages after being injured in a motor vehicle collision in Stockton is always a personal decision that depends on the client’s goals and the circumstances of the case. There are two primary benefits for plaintiffs when settling a personal injury lawsuit. First, a settlement ensures faster payment. Litigation can be a lengthy process with the possibility of delays leading up to trial due to court availability, pre-trial litigation phases, and the appeal of any pre-trial court orders. Obtaining a judgment after a trial is only the first part of the recovery process—additional legal action may be necessary to enforce the judgment.
Second, settling a personal injury claim provides certainty on the recovery of compensation. Going to trial always involves risk, particularly when the case is complex. Factual disputes about the cause and liability for a collision or the damages a plaintiff experienced can make it difficult to predict how a jury will react. Per California Civil Code § 1714, the state follows the rule of comparative fault, which means a jury will reduce a plaintiff’s compensation in proportion to their percentage of fault. This adjustment works both ways, as the award can be higher or lower than the defendant’s settlement offer. Our team can provide a more thorough explanation of these details during a confidential meeting.
How an Experienced Lawyer Can Help Settle a Car Accident Case
An attorney can help clients understand the strengths and weaknesses of their case, enabling them to make informed decisions. A key aspect of the settlement is considering the total damages resulting from injuries and how they may impact future financial needs. Clients with permanent disabilities may have greater concerns about future healthcare expenses and lost wages.
The method of receiving settlement compensation for a motor vehicle accident in Stockton is another critical issue lawyers can help clients navigate. Most settlements are either paid as a lump sum or as a structured settlement distributed as installments over time. Each option has advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them will depend on the plaintiff’s financial needs and lifestyle.
Call a Stockton Attorney Today To Discuss Settlement Handling for Your Motor Vehicle Collision
Consulting with an attorney before signing Stockton car accident settlements can provide you with confidence in accepting or rejecting an offer. Valero Law Group makes it easy for you to meet with a personal injury attorney by offering transportation to their office or having their lawyers come to you. Schedule a free consultation today.
