There are benefits and drawbacks to settlements and to litigation, and the decision about which route to pursue is yours to make. Settlements may be faster and less time-consuming, and for some people, that is enticing. But it is important to know that if you agree to a settlement right away and your injuries are more extensive and require more care – like additional surgeries or home health aides – you cannot go back and renegotiate for a larger award. For someone with a life-altering injury, a jury trial may be the only way to achieve true justice, and to ensure that the person or entity who caused your injuries cannot harm others in the same way.