Will I settle a car accident claim faster with a mediator?

There are several ways that a car accident claim can be resolved. Dragging the matter to court is generally the slowest option. Car accident mediation, on the other hand, is often the quickest option.

Understanding Mediation

Car accident mediation is a dispute resolution process that allows you to negotiate with the other party in the company of a mediator.

The role of a mediator is to facilitate communication between both parties and, in some cases, to make suggestions that will move the matter toward settlement. The mediator cannot impose any decision on either party. However, any agreement that is made will be legally binding.

Why Mediation Is Faster

Generally, when parties agree to mediation, it means that they both are interested in resolving the claim. Many realize that if an agreement is not reached, the process of resolving the claim is likely to become longer and more expensive.

Another reason that car accident mediation often expedites the process is because it condenses the tasks that are commonly involved in reaching a resolution. For example, one attorney may request a document from another. The requestor must wait for the other attorney to receive his request, fulfill it, and then allow more time to get the document. If the requestor then needs clarification about something, he may have to go through the same process again. Mediation can eliminate this and allow the entire matter to be handled in a single session.

Although car accident mediation is an increasingly popular method of solving accident claims, you should consult with your attorney before deciding if it is right for you.