Do Most Truck Accident Cases Go to Trial?

The short answer is no. Truck accident claims are typically resolved out of court through settlement negotiations. However, there are some situations where a trial might be necessary to seek fair compensation.

Sumner Law Group, LLC, is here to help truck accident victims pursue the compensation they deserve for lost wages, medical expenses, pain, suffering, and other losses, whether it is through a negotiated settlement or through litigation in court.

Do Most Truck Accident Cases in St. Louis Go to Trial?

Most truck accident cases in St. Louis are resolved without the need for court proceedings. Trials can be lengthy, expensive, and unpredictable for both parties. However, sometimes a truck accident lawsuit will go to trial, especially when the parties disagree over matters like fault and what fair compensation entails.

Factors That Affect Whether a Case Goes to Trial

Several factors influence the path the truck accident settlement process takes, including:

• Disputes about liability – If it is unclear who caused the accident, or if multiple parties are involved, it may take a trial to determine fault.
• The severity of the injuries – Cases involving severe or permanent injuries often necessitate larger amounts of compensation. Insurance companies may fight harder to reduce the payout, meaning the case is more likely to go to trial.
• The strength of available evidence – Strong evidence is difficult to dispute, and insurance companies are more likely to settle out of court if they believe the injured party has compelling evidence on their side.
• Hardball insurance tactics – Some insurers will attempt to delay or deny valid claims, hoping the injured party will give up or accept a low offer. Going to court may be the best option in such cases.

What Happens if My Truck Accident Case Goes to Court?

While the specific circumstances are different in every case, truck accident litigation typically involves the same basic steps, including:

• Discovery – Both sides exchange information and documents related to the personal injury lawsuit. Discovery may also involve the parties and any witnesses being questioned under oath by both sides’ legal representatives.
• Pre-trial motions – Before the trial begins, the lawyers on each side may ask the court to decide certain legal issues related to the case. Examples include a motion to compel discovery or decide the case without trial.
• Trial – Your personal injury attorney will make legal arguments and present your evidence, including expert testimony, medical evidence, accident scene photos and videos, black box data, and police reports.
• Verdict – The court will render a decision in favor of the party that it believes presented better evidence. If it finds for the accident victim, it will also award an appropriate amount of compensation.

How Long Does a Truck Accident Case Take in St. Louis?

Several factors go into how long the legal process might take to resolve a truck accident case in St. Louis. Relatively straightforward claims with few disputes may settle in a few months, while cases involving serious injuries, disputed liability, or multiple defendants could take more than a year or longer, particularly when the case goes to trial.

Working with a St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer

If you have suffered injuries in a truck accident caused by someone else’s negligence, Sumner Law Group, LLC, can help. Our goal is to secure an out-of-court settlement for maximum compensation when possible, but we prepare every case as if it is going to trial. If the insurance companies will not play fair, we are ready to take them to court and fight for your rights.

Contact us today for your free consultation about your personal injury case with our experienced truck accident attorneys.