Someone who has been injured due to misconduct of a person or the negligence of a business might want to take legal action. A personal injury lawsuit can be a means of recouping the losses triggered by the failures of another party.
When someone needs substantial compensation from insurance or when the other party attempts to deny liability, a lawsuit might seem like the only way to connect with compensation after falling on private property or getting hurt in the car crash. However, many people negotiating personal injury matters may have the option of attending mediation sessions instead of litigating.
Why do some personal injury plaintiffs turn to mediation to resolve a conflict with the party at fault for their injuries?
A faster resolution
Particularly in scenarios where an injury prevents someone from working, they may have mounting personal expenses and no way to cover their costs. Those who have to wait for their day in court may spend a year or more without income and might face increasingly aggressive collection activity. Personal injury mediation can be a faster means of acquiring a settlement and the funds necessary to cover expenses.
A private environment
Personal injury cases often involve very sensitive and private information. Those struggling to cope with the consequences of an injury may need to provide details about the impact the situation has had on their daily lives and finances. Many people would prefer to avoid publicly airing their grievances or personal challenges. Mediation is a confidential process, meaning that the details shared in mediation sessions do not become public record like what people share in court.
A mutually beneficial solution
Many insurance companies and businesses facing lawsuits prefer to settle rather than to litigate. Between the expense and the publicity that could follow a personal injury lawsuit, it is often more cost-effective to settle. Companies may be more inclined to offer generous settlements in mediation because they can avoid negative publicity and court costs.
While many people don’t think of mediation for personal injury cases, it can be a viable alternative to going to court. Seeking legal guidance is a good way to learn more.