What Happens When a Car Accident Case Goes to Court?
Most of the car accident cases do not go to court. Usually, a car insurance company or personal injury lawyer settles the case between both parties. However, in some cases, filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver is the best way out. If you are going to file a car accident case lawsuit, it is best to prepare for things coming up. The most significant of them is the car accident case trial.
You should know how the trial process is going to take place and what you should expect.
When Should You Take a Car Accident Case to Court?
Before you file a lawsuit, it is important to figure out if and why you should take your car accident case to court.
So, three situations lead you to file a lawsuit as the last option. These include:
• Your insurance company is not offering a suitable settlement
• Your lawyer is unable to negotiate with the insurance company as well as the other party on an informal basis
• The other party does not accept being at fault.
In such cases, your lawyer might suggest you take the case to court.
What Happens at the Car Accident Case Trial?
In any personal injury claim, both parties are given a chance to present their evidence upon which jury reaches the final verdict. Following things are likely to happen during your court trial:
Presentation of the Evidence
As you present the evidence, it should be solid enough to convince the jury that the accident took place due to the negligence of the other party. So, they are responsible for your injuries and following economic losses. It''s evidence that puts you on a higher scale and makes the jury''s decision favorable for you.
Some of the evidence that is usually presented include:
• Interview of witnesses
• Interview of your doctor
• Your medical history
• Your driving record
• Accident footage
• Any other kind of evidence that demonstrates your losses
The defendant''s attorney is then allowed to present his evidence and witnesses to explain their side of the story. After both parties are done with the presentation of evidence and closure, the decision remains with the jury.
Jury Deliberation
In most states, car accident cases are dealt with by a jury. After the court trial, the jury reexamines the evidence and is given ample time to reach a final verdict. The verdict is based on two significant things:
1. Who was actually at fault?
2. How much money should be paid as a reparation of losses?
If your case was strong, you are likely to get a fair settlement for your losses.
Conclusion
Car accident lawsuits are quite expensive. An attorney will only suggest you take the case to court if your case is really strong, and you deserve a good settlement. It is important to make sure if your losses are worth spending all the time, effort, and higher costs.