Persons in West Virginia who have had the misfortune to be involved in trucking accidents often find themselves recovering from more than just injuries. The aftermath of such accidents often includes lost wages, pain and suffering, and staggering medical expenses for which the injured parties seek compensation from the trucking companies. It is not unusual for these types of cases to be settled outside of the civil courts for a number of reasons. However, just as there are advantages to seeking to settle a truck accident, there may be disadvantages as well. Therefore, it is a good idea to be aware of the pros and cons of settling such a case before signing a settlement agreement.
Arriving at a settlement agreement is advantageous for several reasons. It is typically less expensive than going through court litigation and takes less time. It also is usually more amicable and less argumentative than a lawsuit because the parties involved are seeking an agreeable resolution. Additionally, the terms of the settlement are usually kept private.
However, just as there are advantages to seeking a settlement, there are also some possible disadvantages that should be considered as well. For instance, settlements are usually final and plaintiffs usually waive any right to seek future damages from the accident. There is also the risk that the agreed-upon settlement amount may be less than the injured party might have been awarded in court.
When a trucking accident results in property damage, injuries or worse, it is a good idea to consult an attorney who is experienced in handling cases of this type before deciding to settle or sue for compensation. The attorney may recognize pertinent factors of the case that would indicate whether a settlement would reap the most significant benefit for the injured as opposed to a lawsuit.