What is the mediation process with an auto accident?

Following an auto accident, one of the options you may pursue is mediation. Usually the mediation option is agreed upon as a method of resolution before any claims dispute arises. Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution that occurs outside the court venue and allows parties to come to an agreement without the contention and accompanying costs of a lawsuit.

Although anyone may act as a mediator, all disputing parties in the mediation must agree to the suggested mediator. Often the mediator chosen is someone with experience or an in-depth understanding dispute resolution matters. In car accident cases, mediators are often a neutral car accident attorney or an insurance professional with experience in handling auto accident claims disputes.

The mediation process may last as long as it takes for each party to reach an agreement on the disputed issues or for one party to refuse to participate further in the mediation process. The length of the process depends on the complexity of a case, the number of parties involved, the willingness of each side to cooperate as well as the amount at stake for each party. On average, car accident mediation cases typically last no more than four hours based on the assumption that each party is making a fair and reasonable attempt to resolve the dispute.

If you decide to pursue mediation, it ia always advisable to have legal counsel representing you during the car accident mediation process. If the case proceeds to actual litigation, you will also need an attorney to represent you in court. Consult with a car accident lawyer in your state to further discuss the medication process with an auto accident.