Do I Have to Go to Court for a Personal Injury Claim in Louisiana?

When you’re injured in New Orleans, the financial consequences of your accident can be substantial. While trying to focus on the recovery process, you may get bombarded with medical bills. During this time, you may be unable to work, which can leave you without a source of income. When someone else caused the accident that led to your injuries, they should be financially accountable.

Taking legal action may be necessary to win a settlement for your suffering, but it can be overwhelming to go to court during a time that’s already stressful for you. Many personal injury claims can be settled outside of court with the right lawyer by your side. Speaking to a New Orleans personal injury lawyer from Smiley Injury Law, LLC can give you guidance on how to move forward with your case.

Why Insurance Settlements Aren’t Ideal

You may think it’s best to discuss your accident with your own insurance at first. For example, if you were injured in a car accident, your insurance company may call you to get the full story about what happened. But even if you have personal injury protection insurance that covers you, you should consider whether a settlement from your insurance is best.

If you didn’t cause your accident, then you deserve justice. Insurance companies usually have their own financial interests in mind, so you may not get the full amount of money you deserve for what you went through. Although an insurance settlement will keep you out of court, speaking to a lawyer can be key.

Negotiate Your Settlement with the Defendant

When filing a legal claim, you’ll send notice to the defendant before going to trial. The defendant will have the opportunity to negotiate a settlement before court. Because the defendant likely won’t want to go to court, it’s possible to come to a settlement agreement.

Consult a New Orleans Personal Injury Attorney

With an experienced lawyer by your side, you won’t have to worry about negotiating or maximizing your claim. Your lawyer will work on your behalf while you focus on recovering from your injuries. If you’d like to discuss your settlement options with a New Orleans personal injury lawyer from Smiley Injury Law, LLC, fill out the contact form below or call 504-894-9653 to schedule a free consultation.