After being involved in a car accident, dealing with a law suit may be another added stress factor you have to deal with. Depending on the severity of your injuries, damage to your property, or the other party’s insurance provider, trial may be necessary to get the compensation you need to get your life back to normal.
If you decide to sue the at-fault driver for compensation, here is a basic guide on what you need to know about going to trial for a car accident injury case.
1. Opening Statement
The first thing that’s going to happen is that both your attorney and the defendant’s attorney will state their opening cases to a jury. This introductory monologue is when each attorney outlines the key point in their case. Once opening statements are over your attorney will get the chance to go into further details about your case by presenting your claim.
2. Present Your Claim
Presenting your claim means your attorney will need to provide proof that will back up the points they made in their opening statement. This proof could be witnesses that saw the accident happen, police reports, medical experts who treated your injuries after the accident, accident recreation specialist testimony, and any photographs you took.
3. Defendant Presents Their Claim
Next is the defendant’s attorney’s turn to make their case. They will provide their proof and give their version on how the accident happened. After both parties have presented, it’s time for closing arguments.
4. Closing Arguments
Once both attorneys are satisfied with the information they’ve presented, they will summarize the main points illustrated in their opening statements and in your claim. Then, it’s either up to the jury to decide, or as in most cases, a judge or mediator will make the final ruling.
If you’ve won your case, you will get your compensation and can begin steps to retrieve it from the person responsible.
What Happens if Your Car Accident Injury Case Goes to Court
If you’ve been in a car accident you may need to go to court to get compensation for your hospital bills, lost wages, rental car expenses, and car repair. It can be a nerve-wracking experience but with a strong enough claim and a well prepared attorney, you have the potential to come out on top. Haven’t found a law firm to take your case yet? Contact us and get a free consultation today.
