Understanding What a Settlement Is
When you’re hurt in an accident, one of the first legal terms you’ll hear is “settlement.” But what does that actually mean in an injury case—and how does it affect your recovery? A settlement is a legal agreement between an injured person (the plaintiff) and the at-fault party or their insurance company. Instead of going to trial, both sides agree on a specific amount of compensation to resolve the case.
Settlements are common in Arizona personal injury cases involving:
- Car accidents
- Slip and fall injuries
- Dog bites
- Wrongful death
- Medical malpractice
In most cases, a settlement allows you to receive compensation faster and with less stress than a full courtroom trial.
How the Settlement Process Works in Arizona
- Filing the Claim
Your attorney gathers medical records, accident reports, and other evidence to show who was at fault and how much you’ve lost.
- Negotiation
Both sides exchange settlement offers. Insurance companies often start low, so skilled negotiation is key.
- Agreement and Release
Once a fair number is reached, you’ll sign a release of liability, which means you agree not to pursue further legal action for that incident.
- Payment and Closure
After the paperwork is finalized, you’ll receive your settlement check—usually within weeks.
What Can Be Included in an Injury Settlement?
A settlement can cover both economic and non-economic damages, such as:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage (such as vehicle repairs)
In some severe cases, punitive damages may also be available if the other party acted recklessly or intentionally.
Why Having an Experienced Attorney Matters
Insurance companies have teams of lawyers protecting their bottom line. Having a personal injury lawyer on your side ensures you’re not pressured into accepting less than you deserve.
At Rideout Law Group, our attorneys negotiate aggressively for full and fair compensation. We handle every aspect of your case—so you can focus on healing.
Get Help with Your Arizona Injury Settlement
Whether your accident happened in Scottsdale, Lake Havasu City, or anywhere across Arizona, our legal team is ready to help you understand your options and protect your rights.
Scottsdale Office: 11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 225, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Lake Havasu City Office: 2800 Sweetwater Ave, Suite A104, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86406
Call (480) 584-3328 or (928) 854-8181 for a free case review today.