If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by a careless driver, a skilled car accident attorney may be able to negotiate a settlement without going to court. However, if the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer or tries to blame you for the accident, you may have no choice but to file a lawsuit. Knowing what to expect before stepping foot in the courtroom can help reduce the anxiety of this stressful experience.

What to Expect During a Personal Injury Trial

The Discovery Process

Before the trial, each side will have an opportunity to collect evidence from the other, which might include presenting witness statements, taking depositions, and reviewing medical evidence. In many cases, the material uncovered in discovery is enough to compel the insurer to make a fair settlement offer and conclude the case.

Presenting Your Evidence

Once the jury has been selected and both sides have made their opening statements, your car accident attorney will have a chance to present the case. They might call you to testify, put expert witnesses on the stand, and display pictures from the accident scene. The defense attorney will also have the opportunity to cross-examine each witness and ask questions of their own.

The Defense Presents Their Case

After your car accident attorney rests their case, the insurance company will begin presenting their defense. For instance, they may offer an alternative explanation for the accident or call expert witnesses to dispute the severity of your injuries. During this phase, it will be your attorney’s turn to cross-examine the defense’s witnesses, which can be especially useful if there are differences between their testimony and statements given during the discovery phase.

The Final Phase

Once all the evidence has been heard, each side will give their closing statement before the jury begins deliberations. In most personal injury cases, the jury decides whether the insurance company is liable for your damages and how much they’ll have to pay. When the judge reads their verdict, the decision is final unless either side has grounds to file an appeal.

With over 50 years of experience serving accidents throughout Warner Robins and Middle Georgia, The Walker Firm’s car accident attorneys have the skills and experience to achieve the best possible outcome. Whether your case can be settled at the negotiating table or the courtroom, you can rely on their team to deliver the guidance and aggressive representation you deserve. Visit their website to learn how they can help after a car accident or call (478) 923-4152 to speak with an attorney today.