Every car accident lawsuit has specific circumstances that will significantly impact how the entire process will play out. At Banks, Stubbs & McFarland, you can expect an experienced Forsyth County car accident attorney to take on the legal process on your behalf, including the accident investigation, locating all sources of insurance coverage, dealing with all insurance companies, settlement negotiations, litigation, and trial. While many car accident cases can be settled directly with the at-fault auto insurance company following the completion of all medical treatment, some cases must be filed and litigated to achieve justice.
To get a more accurate idea of what you should expect during a car accident lawsuit, consult a Forsyth County car accident lawyer. Meanwhile, below is a general roadmap of the car accident lawsuit process.
Consulting With a Forsyth County Car Accident Lawyer
After getting injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence and obtaining immediate medical care, you should consult with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Doing so lets you determine whether your claim against the party that injured you will hold up in court. Credible Forsyth County car accident lawyers offer a free initial case review to help wounded people explore the legal options that may apply to their case.
Investigating Your Car Accident Case
If your Forsyth County car accident lawyer believes you have a viable case against the other party, they will investigate your case thoroughly to determine:
- How the accident happened
- Who caused it
- The nature and severity of your injuries and related damages
- Who must be held liable for your damages
Your lawyer should keep you informed of any developments throughout this process.
Settlement Negotiations Before Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit
Your lawyer will typically send a time-limited demand letter to the liable party. The letter will specify your injuries and other losses from the car crash. Usually, this is the stage where both parties negotiate in an attempt to settle the case fully and fairly, if possible.
Your Forsyth County Car Accident Lawyer Will File a Lawsuit
Settlement negotiations can fail for various reasons, usually because the liable party (defendant) doesn’t want to pay the injured party. With our firm on your side, you have a much better chance of being awarded the proper and full damages you seek.
The Discovery Process Begins
During discovery, both parties will evaluate each other’s evidence and arguments, ask for relevant documents, and clarify certain proof or facts. They will also conduct fact-finding interviews, known as depositions. Depending on the facts of your case, the discovery phase can take six months to a year or longer.
Settlement Negotiations Before the Trial
After the discovery phase, both parties will have the opportunity to attempt to negotiate a settlement again. Usually, the injured party’s attorney will send another demand letter based on the additional evidence gained in discovery. The other party will either accept it or answer with a counteroffer. The lawsuit will head to trial if the parties can’t agree on a settlement amount.
The Trial Begins
During the trial, the jury or judge must decide whether the defendant caused the accident, is liable for your damages, and, if so, the compensation you should receive. If the judgment is in your favor, the defendant is court-ordered to pay you the amount awarded. Both sides have the right to file an appeal. Your Forsyth County car accident lawyer can also help you appeal your case.
Trust Our Reputable Forsyth County Car Accident Lawyers
At Banks, Stubbs & McFarland, our Forsyth County car accident lawyers understand the devastating physical, mental, and financial consequences of a car crash. Learn how our Forsyth County car accident lawyers can help you by contacting us for your free consultation online.
