Enduring an accident may be one of the most challenging things that you have ever faced. Now, after you have been injured and are facing extensive injuries, you find out that you will have to bring a claim against a negligent party for compensation to cover your damages. The thought of an extensive litigation process may be entirely stressful to you, but you may be surprised to find that you have other options, including alternative dispute resolution (ADR).

Alternative dispute resolution includes any type of resolution that you may be able to meet with another party without the use of litigation. The mediation process is one of the most common types of ADR and is also an effective way to gain settlement in your case. Mediation is a private process that involves the two parties, as well as a neutral mediator, who will help you discuss your claim and come to a conclusion about your damages. This method works for many parties who are looking to meet a resolution in their personal injury case.

If you have spoken to your attorney and you are comfortable with going through with the mediation process, you may wonder what you are headed toward. There are some expectations that you should count on in this process.

What to Expect When You Endure a Florida Mediation

There may be disagreements. You and the other party will likely gather with your attorneys and give opening statements regarding your accident. Your attorney will represent you and tell your side of the story, while the defendant and their attorney will do the same. The defense attorney may say things that you disagree with and may even make you feel many unexpected emotions. However, you should stay calm and stand up for your side. 

You may start out far apart at the beginning of the session. When you first start negotiating with the other party, you can count on the initial offer to be lower than expected. If you believe that this offer is too low and will not support what you need to cover your damages, you should always be patient and negotiate until you reach a settlement that works for you.

The process is not always short. Though some mediation sessions only last a few hours, it can take a few full days until you reach a conclusion. If you want to receive the information that is important to make a decision, you will find that it is not always a quick process – but it does tend to be shorter than litigation. 

The mediator will not pick a side. The mediator is not an advocate for either side. This means that they must remain neutral throughout the process, which means being fair to both parties. 

Expect to compromise on matters. Mediation only works when you and the other party can compromise with one another. This means that you want to be fair and keep an open mind.

Speaking with a Personal Injury Attorney About Your Options 

There are many options for somebody who has been injured in a Florida car accident due to the negligence of another party. At Sheftall & Associates, our Florida personal injury attorneys are here to support you if you believe that you have been harmed due to the negligence of another party. It is important to have a knowledgeable legal advocate on your side every step of the way. Please contact an accident attorney in Florida at (904) 569-6025 for the information needed to move forward.