Several significant new personal injury trends appeared in 2021 due to the ongoing COVID pandemic. Many of these trends are likely to remain, as work processes and daily routines have shifted in ways that proved to be more time-efficient for individuals and law firms alike.
One trend sees an increased desire for both defendants and insurance companies to settle cases out of court. Not only are people more concerned about being in crowded public places, but personal injury trials are backed up for months on the court dockets.
In many cases, in-person trials could not take place for long periods of time, creating a backlog that makes it challenging for those needing a settlement to survive. For their part, insurance companies are not interested in having thousands of open cases on their books going into the new year – especially in high-risk cases where they stand to have a large payout pending. Most insured parties are willing to settle out of court if they know they are being treated fairly – which is where the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney becomes a valuable asset. Once you understand that the offered dollar amount is within the expected range, you can confidently settle and move on with your life.
A second trend that emerged in personal injury law since March of 2020 is the increased use of remote technology for the legal process. One of the most popular of these platforms is Zoom video conferencing software. This technology is now prolific in the court systems, with judges utilizing the technology to conduct hearings, schedule conferences, and hear pre-trial motions in personal injury cases. Depositions are also being held remotely, moving pending personal injury cases down the timeline without the need for in-person arrangements. Personal injury attorneys have easily adapted and adopted Zoom for these types of activities, and the trend is expected to continue long after the need for isolation is passed. As many businesses found out, Zoom and other video platforms minimize potential exposure to COVID while reducing budgetary stress regarding travel expenses. These platforms are an efficient, simple, and reliable way to collect evidence, deposition, and testimony, which is likely here to stay.
An additional personal injury trend experts expect is that claims for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life damages will continue to increase in settlement value. This realization occurred through the COVID pandemic, as people began to collectively appreciate the value of simple, everyday life. Therefore any injury that impedes the enjoyment of our time with family or friends has appreciated in monetary value as well. Normalcy is no longer taken for granted, and the ability to not only work but to play, travel, stay active and be with other humans is more essential than ever. In the future, any injury that impairs these activities is predicted to be more significant and worth more in compensation and damages.
The COVID pandemic changed the way we view our lives, whether during work, play – or legal issues. The technologies that helped us to navigate an unprecedented pandemic have emerged as useful tools in any situation and are likely to continue to help the personal injury law process evolve.
Therefore, if you have a question about a potential personal injury case, there is no obstacle to picking up the phone and asking for advice. Probinsky & Cole are here to help in any way we can – no matter the situation.
