Most personal injury cases in California settle outside of court. However, lawsuits for catastrophic injuries like spinal cord damage are more likely to proceed to trial because the victims are seeking much higher compensation amounts. That said, spinal cord injuries are still more likely to settle with the liable party’s insurance company, often after an extended negotiation process.
In reality, both sides will prefer to reach a mutual agreement without going through a stressful and expensive court trial. However, insurers are always determined to pay as little as possible. Your attorney must prepare a solid case that proves the at-fault party’s negligence, document the victim’s damages, and justify a fair compensation amount.