When a car accident occurs due to someone else's negligence, the victim may be entitled to compensation. In many cases, the parties involved are able to settle out of court, but in some cases, the case may go to trial. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to understand what to expect when your car accident case goes to trial. In most states, a jury trial must be requested as part of the original documentation that initiates the lawsuit (usually called a complaint).
Jury trials in car accidents usually last only a few days from the time the jury selection begins until a verdict is reached. However, there is no set rule and the length of a trial can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the case and local judicial procedures. Most insurance companies want to resolve a claim during a settlement and it is very rare for a car accident case to come to trial. If both parties cannot agree on who is responsible for the accident or on the amount of compensation the victim should receive for their injuries and losses, then the only way to get money for car accident injuries is through a trial.
In a car accident lawsuit, the plaintiff will have to convince the jury (or judge) that the defendant (the person being sued) was negligent in operating their vehicle and that this negligence was the cause of the plaintiff's car accident and injuries. Types of expert witnesses who could testify in car accident cases include traffic reconstruction experts, road safety engineers, economists, doctors, and mental health professionals. When you work with an experienced car accident lawyer, they will ensure that you are well prepared to answer questions from both parties. Being prepared for what lies ahead in a court case will be essential and working with an experienced lawyer will increase your chances of a successful outcome. If you have been in a car accident due to someone else's negligence, contact a local lawyer to schedule a free case evaluation to discuss your car accident lawsuit and learn more.
