16 Nov Filing a Lawsuit After a Car Wreck
Are you considering the possibility of filing a personal injury lawsuit? It is a decision that should not be taken lightly, given the time-consuming nature of litigation and associated costs. However, when insurance companies fail to offer fair compensation for injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering, we discuss the option of filing a lawsuit suit with our clients. Here are key factors to ponder before making the decision to file suit.
Time
The litigation process moves slowly, adhering to procedural rules. After filing the lawsuit (Summons and Complaint), the defendant has at least thirty days to respond. Subsequent stages involve written and oral discovery, mediation, and trial. Depositions, mediation, and trial attendance are required, with a case typically not reaching trial until 12-16 months post-filing.
Litigation Costs
Filing a lawsuit consists of various costs. Court filing fees apply, and during the deposition phase, costs arise for securing a court reporter for the defendant's deposition. If your treating physician provides deposition testimony, additional costs may accrue. Mediation costs will be split between the plaintiff and the defendant(s). If your case does not get resolved at mediation, it will proceed to trial.
Case Resolution
Settlement can occur at any point after filing a lawsuit, even at trial. Should your case not settle at mediation, the outcome will be determined by a jury of your peers. The attorney’s fee and costs incurred during the litigation process will be deducted from any settlement or verdict received.
Are you considering hiring a personal injury attorney?
Fighting insurance companies alone can be challenging. If you or a loved one have suffered injuries through no fault of your own,
contact the Hair Law Firm at (803) 881-3711 for a free consultation to discuss your options.
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