Mediation is one of the alternative processes available to settle disputes outside the courts. Court procedures can be very expensive and it can take months or years for a case to come before the court. It is in the best interest for both parties to first try the other alternatives which are available. A mediator will try to settle a problem between two parties by facilitating a meeting between the parties where he would try to get them to reach a settlement.

A mediator does not have the powers of a judge, he cannot make any decision which either party must accept. He will listen to both parties and try to get them to come to an agreement. Mediation differs from arbitration. With arbitration the arbitrator has the right to make a decision that will be binding on both parties.

In the case of a dispute between an insurer and the insured, including car insurance disputes of settlement, the insured can request mediation or arbitration as an alternative to reach a settlement.

The ombudsman for short-term insurance can also be contacted for assistance, many cases brought to his office are settled through mediation and conciliation without him having to make a formal determination.