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

A personal injury claim is a process in which the victim presents a claim to recover compensation for injuries sustained. The victim can file a claim with the insurance company representing the party who is liable for the incident in an attempt to secure compensation for their injuries and relevant expenses. In the event the parties are unable to resolve the case through a claim, the victim may file a lawsuit.

A lawsuit is more formal than a claim, and entails legal action taken by the victim against the person or entity whose negligent behavior caused the victim’s injuries. The victim can attempt to recover damages for their injuries by informing the court about the case. A jury can then decide whether to award damages to the plaintiff. In many instances, the responsible party may try to reach a settlement with the victim in order to avoid courtroom proceedings.