Do You Have to Go to Court for a Truck Accident Claim in Georgia?

If you or a loved one were injured in an Atlanta or Savannah truck accident, you might be wondering if you will have to go to court to get compensated for your injuries and losses. The truth is it depends on various factors, including the insurance company’s willingness to settle fairly and the extent of your damages. Here’s a detailed look at what might happen in your truck accident case.

Settling out of court with insurance companies

Fortunately, many Atlanta and Savannah truck accident claims settle out of court. Insurance companies often prefer to settle to avoid trial costs, time and uncertainty.  Reaching an out-of-court settlement can also be a more positive, less stressful outcome.

An out-of-court settlement aims to reach an agreement that adequately covers your medical expenses, property damage, lost wages and other damages. However, the insurance company might offer an initial settlement that is lower than you deserve. Working with the skilled truck accident attorneys at Harris Lowry Manton LLP can help you counter these lowball offers and protect your rights. We can gather evidence, consult with medical and accident reconstruction experts and build a compelling case that shows the full value of your losses. Taking these steps will help us negotiate your claim from a position of strength.

However, if the insurance company refuses a reasonable settlement, you may have to consider going to court.

When you’re better off not settling

Settling out of court can be a quicker and less stressful route to compensation. However, there are situations where taking your case to court might be a better option. If the insurance company’s settlement offers are below what you need to cover your medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering and other damages, then filing a lawsuit may be necessary to secure fair compensation.

Going to court could also result in a higher payout, especially if you’ve experienced significant injuries and long-term issues from your accident. The court can award compensation for various damages, including pain and suffering, emotional distress and any permanent physical impairments. If your injuries are severe, the insurance company may underestimate these non-economic damages, or they might try to minimize the impact of your accident on your daily life. In cases like these, presenting your case to a judge or jury might lead to a better outcome.

Another reason to consider taking your case to court is when multiple parties are involved, like the truck driver, the trucking company, and third parties, like equipment manufacturers. In more complex cases like these, going to court can help establish accountability and determine each party’s share of liability. Our attorneys understand how to present a thorough argument, demonstrating the full extent of your damages and losses.

Don’t be afraid to take your truck accident case to court

The thought of going to court might be intimidating. However, you are not alone. Many people are hesitant to go through the court process, fearing it will be overwhelming, costly and time-consuming. Working with our Atlanta and Savannah truck accident attorneys can ease these concerns. Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay us nothing upfront.

Taking your case to court can also be mentally empowering, especially if you’ve been wronged by an insurance company that refuses to negotiate fairly. Going to court lets you tell your story completely, with all the evidence presented before a judge or jury. Our attorneys can handle all aspects of your case, from filing paperwork to negotiating with the insurance company to presenting evidence in court.

What to expect during the court process

If your case goes to court, the process typically begins with filing a complaint against the at-fault parties. Then, both sides will go through “discovery,” where they gather evidence and depose witnesses.

At Harris Lowry Manton LLP, we handle negotiations, argue on your behalf and work with experts to build the strongest possible case. Also, it’s not uncommon for cases to settle out of court even when a lawsuit is filed, as insurance companies may become more willing to offer fair compensation when they see that you and your lawyers are prepared to go the distance.

When might I go to court for my truck accident?

A variety of factors play a role in whether you’ll end up in court, including the following.

• The more severe and life-altering your injuries, the more compensation you’re likely entitled to. Unfortunately, serious cases are often those where insurers are less likely to offer a fair settlement.
• If you’re seeking a large amount of compensation to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and future care needs, the insurer may resist this, pushing the case closer to court.
• Strong evidence in your favor can make a settlement more likely. The insurer may settle to avoid losing in court if you have clear proof of liability, such as video footage, witnesses, or expert testimony.
• Finally, some insurers are known to settle quickly, while others prefer to go to court if they believe it’s financially advantageous. Our experienced attorneys are familiar with how insurance companies operate.

While it’s often possible to resolve these cases through negotiation, going to court can help you receive the compensation you’re entitled to in your Atlanta or Savannah truck accident claim. Our truck accident attorneys can keep you informed and supported as you seek compensation for your injuries and losses.

If you feel hesitant about court, remember that your attorneys handle all the hard work – from the initial paperwork to legal representation. We work to make the process as smooth as possible and advocate for you, giving you the confidence to pursue fair compensation.

If you’re dealing with a truck accident claim, the truck accident attorneys at Harris Lowry Manton LLP are here to help you understand your options. Whether through negotiating a fair settlement or fighting for you in court, we’re committed to securing the compensation you deserve. With no upfront fees and experienced support at every step, you don’t have to face this challenging time alone. Please call or use our contact form to schedule a consultation at our offices in Atlanta or Savannah.