Settlement vs. Trial in Bicycle Accident Cases

Most bicycle accident cases settle before trial, but not all. Understanding when to settle and when to fight helps you make the best decision for your case.

Settlement Advantages

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Certainty You know exactly what you're getting.

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Speed Settlements resolve in months; trials can take years.

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Privacy Settlement terms can remain confidential.

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Lower Costs No trial preparation, expert witness fees, or appeal risk.

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Emotional Closure Avoid the stress of testifying.

Trial Advantages

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Potentially Higher Recovery Juries sometimes award more than settlement offers.

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Justice Public accountability for the defendant.

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Precedent Trial outcomes can influence future cases.

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When Settlement Offers Are Too Low Sometimes trial is the only path to fair compensation.

When Settlement Makes Sense

- Liability is disputed

• Your damages are moderate

• You need money quickly

• Strong risk factors for trial

• Defendant has limited assets/coverage

When Trial May Be Necessary

- Insulting settlement offers

• Clear liability and strong damages

• Egregious defendant conduct (drunk driving)

• Policy limit cases where insurer won't budge

• Defendant refuses reasonable settlement

The Decision

Your attorney will advise based on:

• Strength of your case

• Available evidence

• Jury appeal

• Local verdict history

• Insurance coverage

• Your personal needs and preferences