What Is the Difference Between Filing a Claim and Filing a Lawsuit?

If you’ve been in an accident in Louisiana, you may wonder how the legal process works. You’ve probably heard terms like “filing a claim” or “filing a lawsuit.” These are not the same, but they’re connected.

The main difference between a claim and a lawsuit is that a claim is an informal request for compensation, typically made to an insurance company, while a lawsuit is a formal legal action filed in court.

A claim is usually the first step. It’s an informal request for compensation, often made to an insurance company. If you’re able to settle during this stage, the process can be quicker and less expensive. But if a fair offer isn’t made, filing a lawsuit may be the next step to fight for what you’re truly owed.

Knowing the difference helps you protect your rights and understand what to expect. At LJBLegal, our Louisiana personal injury attorneys take quick, clear steps, whether your case settles quickly or needs to go further.

What Does Filing a Claim Mean?

A claim is a formal request for payment. It’s often sent to an insurance company after a car accident, slip and fall, or other injury. You’re asking for compensation for your medical bills, missed work, vehicle damage, and pain and suffering. This is usually the first step after an accident, and it doesn’t involve legal proceedings or going to court.

• It’s informal and out of court. Filing a claim starts with paperwork, phone calls, and back-and-forth negotiations.
• It begins the settlement process. You give the insurer evidence of your losses and they respond with an offer.
• You control the pace early on. You can accept, reject, or counter any offer made.

At LJBLegal, we start working the moment you call. We collect medical records, gather surveillance footage, speak with witnesses, and prepare for the negotiations. Filing your claim early is critical, even though you may have more time to file a lawsuit. Some insurance policies require you to report the accident or file a claim with your own insurer in as little as 30 days. It’s best to notify your insurance company within 24 hours if you can. This helps protect your rights and avoids delays.

If you do not receive a fair offer from the insurance company after filing your claim, you may need to file a lawsuit.

What Does Filing a Lawsuit Mean?

A lawsuit is a formal legal action filed in court. You take this step when your claim is denied, the offer is too low, or negotiations stop moving forward. This process involves legal documents, court deadlines, and a judge or jury who decides the outcome if there’s no settlement.

• You file a petition in court. It explains what happened, who was hurt, and what you’re asking for.
• The defendant must respond. They usually have 15 to 30 days, depending on the case.
• Both sides gather and share evidence. This is called discovery, and it includes depositions, reports, and records.
• It gives you more leverage. Insurance companies know that once a lawsuit is filed, they can’t delay or lowball as easily.

You don’t always have to sue, and most cases settle before actually getting to trial. But sometimes, filing a lawsuit is the only way to get the compensation you truly deserve. And even after you file suit, negotiations can still continue. If the insurance company makes a fair offer at any point, you can still settle your case and avoid trial. At LJBLegal, we’re ready when and if it’s time to take that step, and we keep pushing your case forward while leaving the door open for a fair settlement.

What If I’m Not the Type to Sue?

Not being “the type to sue” is common, but protecting your rights doesn’t mean causing trouble. Filing a claim or lawsuit simply ensures fair treatment. With legal support, you’re not just seeking justice. You’re standing up for what you deserve. Most cases settle, but being prepared for trial strengthens your position.

Many people feel uneasy about taking legal action. You might think, “I’m not the suing type.” That’s understandable. Most people just want to heal and get their bills paid without going to court.

Insurance companies count on people staying quiet or settling for less. When you have a team like LJBLegal behind you, you send a clear message: you won’t accept less than you deserve.

We won’t push you into a trial unless it’s the right move. But we prepare every case like it might go to court, because that’s what gets results.

What’s the Difference Between a Claim and a Lawsuit?

Filing a Claim	Filing a Lawsuit
Request for payment from insurance	A formal legal case asking a judge or jury to decide
Informal, out-of-court process	Legal, in-court process with set rules
The first step	Comes after filing a claim, when needed
Handled by negotiation	Handled by legal procedures and discovery
Faster and less expensive if you settle during this stage	Slower and more costly, but offers stronger leverage
You can negotiate and settle at any time.	You can still negotiate and settle at any time.
If you can’t come to an agreement, you will have to file suit.	If you can’t come to an agreement, a judge and/or jury will decide.

What Should You Do Now?

• Call a legal team that acts fast. LJBLegal starts work the same day.
• File your claim early. The clock starts ticking after your accident.
• Gather medical records, bills, photos, and any video or witness names.
• Understand Louisiana’s two-year deadline to file a lawsuit.
• Don’t accept a low offer just to move on. Let LJBLegal help you fight for fair value.

If the insurance company is dragging its feet or offering less than your case is worth, you may not be getting a fair offer. Filing a lawsuit doesn’t make you the bad guy. It means you’re serious about getting what you’re owed. And with LJBLegal, you don’t have to face that decision alone. Give us a call at 985-240-9773.