If you were involved in an accident and filed a personal injury claim, you may be wondering if you settle it or move forward with a lawsuit. But, before you accept the settlement offer from the insurance company of the liable party, you need to consider some things first. An experienced Salem Oregon personal injury lawyer can answer any questions you may have regarding your claim and determine if it is right to settle it. If you choose them to represent you, you will only be charged if they recover compensation for you.
When Should You File an Injury Claim?
You need to notify your insurance provider right after the accident to file your claim. The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Oregon provides you with two years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit. But, despite this timeframe, you should act fast because time will pass quickly and you might not notice that the statute of limitations is starting to run out. If you fail to take legal action within this deadline, you won’t be able to recover compensation for your injury claim. Also, insurance providers have their own deadlines to meet and you also have to consider some time-consuming factors after your accident. These factors include getting medical treatment and consulting with a lawyer to talk about your claim.
Benefits of Settling Your Claim Over Filing a Lawsuit
Settling your claim outside of court is more affordable. If you file a lawsuit and go to trial, you may need to hire expert witnesses to give testimony to support and prove your claim. Also, your attorney may need to advance costs that they will deduct from the award you will get. In addition, settling is faster than filing a lawsuit. Trials can take several months to conclude. And if one part does not agree to the outcome, they may appeal and drag the case even further. While you go through this process, you won’t have money to pay your medical bills or replace the income you lost as you recover from your injury.
Moreover, settling an injury claim is more predictable than trials. Even if your case goes to trial, you cannot be sure you will get the award you receive. The injury may find you partially responsible or mainly responsible for the accident. If you settle your case, you will get the amount you demand that the insurance company agrees on.