Although most car accident personal injury cases resolve before heading to trial, you always have the option of litigating your case to seek the maximum amount of compensation possible. This can be risky, but depending on the facts of your case it may be your best option for recovering the full extent of your losses. Before deciding on how to approach your case, though, it’s important to think through what factors tend to lead to higher awards in cases heard by a jury. This may give you a better idea of whether you’re strongly positioned to take your case forward to trial.
Top reasons that can result in higher awards
When your case is heard by a jury, there may be one or more factors that persuade them to not only rule in your favor, but also to award you a higher amount of compensation. These include:
- Your injuries are severe.
- The defendant’s actions were particularly egregious, such as driving with a high level of intoxication or driving in such a reckless way that harm was sure to result.
- The jury feels connected to your situation on a personal level.
- The defense’s arguments are weak, unfounded and lack any sort of remorse or care.
- Any expert testimony you submit is understandable and persuasive.
- You paint a clear picture of how your injuries have negatively impacted deeply personal aspects of your life, such as your ability to interact with your children.
Fight for the compensation you deserve
You can’t expect the defense to offer you a settlement amount that you’ve asked for. And you can’t anticipate that a jury will award it to you just by asking. Instead, you have to advocate for the outcome that you deserve. This means gathering evidence and building compelling legal arguments that speak to the law and the emotional components involved in your case. Therefore, before deciding which direction to take your claim, you have to ensure you have a solid legal strategy developed to support your overall position.