Most personal injury claims settle before they end up in court. Cases that go to court are those that involve a lot of complexities that make it hard to determine liability for an accident and the resulting damages. If you think you have a personal injury case, you should contact an attorney from a reputable Personal Injury Law Firm in Council Bluffs, Iowa. An experienced attorney will help you understand what to expect from your case. Keep reading to know how a personal injury case works:
Consultation with an Attorney
After you sustained injuries in an accident caused by another person, seek medical attention right away. This can start the recovery process and generate important medical records that can be used for supporting your claim. Once you start getting treatment, it’s time to consult with an attorney who can help you determine the validity of your claim. During your consultation, ensure you bring as much documentation as possible including medical records, relevant photos or videos, and notes.
Case Investigation
During the investigation, your attorney will collect information to determine how you suffered your injuries and the damages you can recover. They will get in touch with the insurance company of the defendant after they perform an initial investigation. When your attorney has obtained all the necessary information to build your claim, they can start negotiating a fair settlement with the insurer.
The Pre-Trial Stage
Your attorney can file a complaint in court for you explaining how you were injured, the nature and extent of your injuries, and how the negligence of the defendant caused your accident and injuries. Once the complaint is served to the defendant, you and your attorney will wait for their response. Other parts of the pre-trial stage include the discovery process and filing of motions.
Trial
Juries or judges will examine the evidence presented to them to determine whether the at-fault party is liable for your damages. The trial process involves different stages including the selection of a jury, opening statements, witness testimony and cross-examination, closing arguments, jury instruction, as well as jury deliberation and verdict.
No matter how far your personal injury case will go, you can rely on the expertise and knowledge of your attorney. They can give you solid representation during settlement negotiations and trials. Even if you already know how a personal injury lawsuit works, the services of an injury attorney can benefit your case.
