Mediation is becoming an increasingly popular method for settling disputes as an alternative to taking legal action. If you are having difficulties settling your personal injury claim, mediation may be an easier, cheaper method to help you get the compensation you deserve. Discover the pros and cons of mediation and how an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you mediate negotiations with your insurance company.
What is Mediation?
Mediation is a meeting between all parties involved in a dispute and a neutral third party. The third party is an individual trained in dispute resolution and may or may not be a lawyer or judge. This is a voluntary, face to face meeting where each party is free to discuss their terms without fear of losing their case since it is not an official legal hearing.
Mediations for personal injury cases usually begin with each party speaking to the mediator with the other party present. Next, each party speaks to one another while the mediator facilitates. Each party will then get a chance to speak to the mediator in private. The mediator keeps their discussion private but uses the knowledge gleaned from each side to bring them together in an agreement that works for all parties.
Is Mediation Right For You?
When you are working with your insurance adjuster, you may find that there is a point at which you feel you cannot accept any less money, while they cannot pay out any more money. This can often happen if there is a discrepancy surrounding which party is more at fault for the accident or the extent of your injuries. At this point, you may feel you have no choice but to take your claim to court. If you’ve reached such an impasse, consider arranging a meeting with a mediator who can help you reach an agreeable amount.
Pros And Cons Of Mediation
Mediation can be a quick, effective way to settle your personal injury claim if you and your insurance adjuster have not been able to come to an agreement. It requires the physical presence of both parties, so your insurance adjuster is able to put a face to your emails and telephone calls. They are finally able to see you as a person and not just another file on their desk, making them more likely to settle in your favor. You do not need any extra paperwork other than what you have already filled out for your claim, so mediation is much faster, simpler and cheaper than taking your case to court.
Mediations generally only last a few hours, but it can still be difficult to get your insurance adjuster to appear in person for even that amount of time. Keep in mind that if you opt for a community mediation service, they should have experience handling personal injury claims in order to ensure your dispute is settled properly.
Consider A Stewart Bell, PLLC Personal Injury Lawyer
If you think that arranging a mediation session is the best option for you, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Stewart Bell, PLLC to mediate your dispute. Our professional lawyers understand personal injury disputes, and we are here to settle your claim as favorably and efficiently as possible.
