Will My Personal Injury Case Go to Trial? 

As personal injury lawyers in Oklahoma, some of the most common questions we receive from clients are whether their case will go to trial, and what will happen if they face a judge and jury. 

These are valid concerns. Courtrooms can be intimidating, and you may be dealing with ongoing medical treatment, lost wages, and emotional stress. You don’t want to add “courtroom drama” to your list of worries. 

Here’s the good news: Most personal injury cases do not go to trial. And with the right legal team on your side—the Wolf Pack™ at Colbert Cooper Hill—you’ll be prepared if litigation becomes necessary, while focusing on your recovery. 

How Often Do Personal Injury Cases Go to Trial? 

Only a small fraction of personal injury claims ever make it to a jury or judge. 

According to LegalClarity, 90–95 % of personal injury cases settle before trial and only about 3-5% ultimately go to a courtroom.  

If you’ve been injured and are pursuing a claim, you and your attorney will very likely settle it outside of court. 

Why Do Most Cases Settle Instead of Going to Trial? 

There are several practical reasons why settlements are the norm: 

Predictability and Cost 

Trials are expensive, lengthy, and unpredictable. Both plaintiffs and defendants often prefer the certainty of a settlement over risking an unfavorable verdict.  

Speed and Convenience 

Settlements can often be reached in months, while trials may drag on for a year or more. Most parties prefer not delaying and adding stress to the process. 

Risk Management for Insurance Companies 

Insurance companies know that large verdicts can come with huge payouts and bad publicity. They prefer to lock in a known amount with less attention than gamble in public. 

Legal Strategy 

Skilled personal injury attorneys build cases in ways that keep pressure on the insurer to settle. The better the case looks, the more likely the opponent is to offer a fair amount rather than fight it out. 

So, Does That Mean I Won’t Go to Court? 

Not necessarily. While settlement is far more likely, there are still situations in which going to trial becomes the best or only option. Knowing those situations helps you understand what to expect and how to prepare. 

Here are some common reasons personal injury cases go to trial: 

Disputed Fault or Liability 

If the at-fault party or their insurer refuses to accept responsibility, or if the facts are unclear, the case may proceed to court to resolve who was negligent. 

Serious Injuries with Large Damages 

When cases involve catastrophic factors such as permanent disability, loss of earning capacity, major surgery, or lifetime care needs, the stakes can be high. Insurance companies may balk at large demands and force a showdown. 

Multiple Parties or Complex Legal Issues 

Cases involving multiple defendants, exotic liability theories, or unusual circumstances often become litigation matters because the path to settlement is murkier. 

Unreasonable Offers or Bad Faith 

When the insurer fails to make a fair offer or delays compensation, your attorney may decide that trial pressure is needed to force accountability. 

BLOG: Insurance Company Dirty Tricks (and How to Deal with Them) 

What Should You Expect If Your Cases Does Go to Trial? 

Although trials are rare, it’s important to understand how they work so you’re not caught off guard. Here’s the typical flow and what you can expect when you have experienced counsel on your side. 

1. Lawsuit Filed and Defendant Responds 

Your attorney files a complaint, the defendant answers, and the litigation officially begins. 

2. Discovery Phase 

Both sides exchange evidence such as medical records, depositions (witness statements under oath), interrogatories, expert reports, etc. Your lawyer will coordinate everything so you don’t shoulder this process alone. 

3. Pre-Trial Motions and Mediation 

Often there are motions to limit evidence or dismiss the case. Many jurisdictions also require mediation or settlement conferences. Even at this stage, many “trial” cases settle. 

4. Trial Preparation 

Your lawyer prepares your testimony, lines up expert witnesses, organizes exhibits, and builds the story you’ll present to a jury or judge. At Colbert Cooper Hill, we handle everything so you can focus on recovery. 

5. The Trial 

You’ll appear in court, the evidence is presented, witnesses are cross-examined, the jury (or judge) deliberates, and a verdict is rendered. 

6. Post-Trial and Appeals 

If you win, there may still be collection issues or appeals. Your personal injury attorney will fight to ensure that your judgment is enforced and you receive what’s awarded. 

Why Choosing the Right Peresonal Injury Lawyer Matters Even More If a Trial Might Happen 

Because trials are complex, the attorney you choose can dramatically impact your outcome. 

• Experience matters. Lawyers who regularly try cases know how juries think, how to present evidence persuasively, and how to avoid surprise pitfalls. 

• Resources matter. Trials require funds for expert witnesses, depositions, travel, exhibits, etc. A firm must be prepared to invest those resources. 

• Strategy matters. A good lawyer will analyze whether settlement makes sense or going to trial might secure a better result, then advise you accordingly. 

• Communication matters. When you’re injured, facing medical bills, and unsure what’s next, you deserve a lawyer who keeps you informed at every step. 

At Colbert Cooper Hill, that’s exactly what you get. We explain the process, evaluate whether trial is a realistic and strategic option, and stand by you whether your case ends in court or settles ahead of time. 

Should You Be Worried About Going to Trial as a Client? 

Not necessarily. Here’s how to view the possibility of trial in a more positive and realistic way: 

• Trial is a tool, not a threat: It’s something not to fear but to prepare for, if needed. 

• You are represented: You’ll have experienced personal injury attorneys running the case, handling everything from day one. 

• Your interests are protected: A strong trial posture often encourages the insurer to settle at fair value, even if you never actually go to court. 

• The decision is strategic: Your lawyer won’t push you into trial unless it makes sense for your case, your goals, and your recovery. 

• Recovery doesn’t end at settlement: Whether you settle or go to trial, your lawyer will work to make sure you’re compensated fairly, handle your bills, and hold the wrongdoer accountable. 

How Colbert Cooper Hill Prepares for Both Settlement and Trial 

Here’s how we work so you know you’re supported no matter what happens: 

1. Thorough Investigation 
   We gather all evidence: police reports, medical records, witness statements, insurance policies, and expert analyses. The stronger your case, the better the settlement or trial outcome. 

2. Strong Settlement Negotiation 
   Most cases settle, but that doesn’t mean we’ll take the first offer just to get things over with. We’ll aggressively negotiate with the insurer for the full value of what you need, not just what they hope you’ll accept. 

3. Trial-Ready Posture 
   Even when we expect settlement, we operate as if trial is possible. That puts pressure on the insurer to do the right thing. And if a settlement doesn’t come, we’re ready. 

4. Clear Communication 
   We’ll explain your rights, possible outcomes, and help you choose the path that aligns with your goals and needs. 

5. Full Representation 
   If your case does go to trial, we stand by you every step of the way. You focus on healing; we focus on the fight. 

BLOG: What to Expect When You Consult with a Lawyer 

Settlement or Verdict, We Will Fight for You to the End 

If you’ve been injured and are asking, “Will my personal injury case go to trial?”, the answer is: probably not—but you should be prepared for every possibility. With Colbert Cooper Hill on your side, you’ll have a team that: 

• Understands when settlement is sufficient and when going to trial is necessary 

• Has the resources and experience to take your case to court if needed 

• Focuses on your recovery, communication, and full compensation 

Contact Colbert Cooper Hill today for a free case review. Let’s discuss your case, your goals, and your best path forward whether that leads to settlement or trial. 

The content provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject.