What is the difference between a personal injury claim and a lawsuit?

A personal injury claim and a lawsuit are both legal processes a person can take in the event they have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions. However, they’re not the same and have key differences. A personal injury claim is the first step in the process. Once an injury has occurred, the victim can file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. This document will include details of the injury, such as medical bills, lost wages, and any other expenses incurred as a result of the accident. The insurance company will then investigate the claim and attempt to negotiate a settlement with the victim. A lawsuit is the next step if the insurance company does not agree to a settlement or if the claim is denied. The lawsuit must be filed in court by a personal injury lawyer. During the lawsuit, the court may order a trial by jury or a bench trial in which a judge makes the decision. After hearing the evidence, the jury or judge will decide who is at fault and the amount of damages awarded to the plaintiff. In summary, a personal injury claim is the initial process a person takes to obtain compensation for their injury, while a lawsuit is what happens if the claim is denied or a settlement cannot be reached. In Alaska, a person may have to go through either of these processes depending on their specific circumstances.

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What is the difference between a personal injury claim and a lawsuit?

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