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Most personal injury lawsuits settle outside of court.  If, however, a settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to trial.  When a civil lawsuit goes to litigation, most often a jury decides if the defendant was negligent and should be held liable for the plaintiff's injuries.  If so, the jury will then determine how much the defendant needs to pay the plaintiff for his or her damages.  Since the case will be in the jury's hands, each side will try to get a jury they believe will be … [Read more...]

Activities like skiing, or organized sports such as football, involve inherent risks.  People who participate in activities with a high likelihood of injury may be restricted in their ability to file a lawsuit if an injury occurs. Participants in dangerous activities are often required to sign liability release forms limiting the legal responsibility of activity organizers in case of injury.  Even when no liability releases are signed, participants in dangerous … [Read more...]

After a car accident, a slip and fall accident, or other type of personal injury accident, a victim sometimes receives a settlement offer from an insurance company.  If an insurer agrees that its policyholder was at fault for an accident and resulting injuries, the company may be eager to settle quickly.  When an injured accident victim gets a settlement offer, it is usually a sign that the insurance company is trying to settle for less than the victim is entitled to. … [Read more...]