Car accident claims allow you to use the civil justice system to get compensation if someone caused a crash that hurt you. You can file a civil lawsuit in a court with authority to hear the claim, and can try to make the court award you damages for the economic and non-financial losses you experienced.
Berry Law can help guide you through the legal process of your car accident claim. Our Omaha car accident lawyers have helped many clients successfully recover millions of dollars in damages, and we have the insider knowledge of the legal system to maximize your chances of success, so you can give us a call at any time.
As you navigate through your case, our firm will keep you informed of the different steps of the legal process and what, if anything, you need to do during the litigation. You can also read on to learn what to expect as you pursue justice.
Here Are the Steps of a Car Accident Claim
If you are filing a car accident claim:
- You’ll need to begin by gathering evidence and identifying defendants who you can hold accountable for your losses.
- Next, you’ll draft a complaint, which includes the names of the defendants and your legal arguments, and file your case with the court.
- The defendant will be served with notice of the lawsuit and given a chance to respond or submit an answer to the court.
- Either you or the defendant may make certain pre-trial motions or ask the court to do certain things as the case gets underway.
- You’ll also exchange information and investigate your cases during the discovery process.
After discovery and trial preparations are complete, your case will go to court, and you’ll have the burden of proving the defendant should be held liable for your losses. You can do this by showing negligence or wrongdoing. The defendant will also have a chance to raise defenses, or argue against your claims and try to introduce doubt about whether they were at fault.
If the court determines the defendant is liable for losses, you’ll be awarded damages for actual financial loss, such as medical bills and lost wages, as well as compensation for pain and suffering and emotional distress.
What Can You Expect During the Legal Process of Your Car Accident Claim?
During the legal process of your car accident claim, it is very likely that you (or your attorney) and the defendants (or their attorney) will be involved in settlement talks.
If you can reach a settlement agreement, the defendant will pay you a lump sum, but you must give up any future claims against them.
Many people prefer to settle, although it’s only possible if you’re given a fair offer of compensation for your damage. Berry Law will help you understand what your case is worth and will negotiate with the insurer on your behalf to maximize the chances of a successful settlement.
You may also be asked to provide documentation and information during the legal process, such as medical records or testimony about what happened at the scene. Don’t answer questions from the defense without an attorney present, and make sure you have your own skilled lawyer to help you build a strong claim.
Contact an Omaha Car Accident Lawyer After Your Car Accident
You should not try to navigate the legal process of a car accident claim alone. Contact an Omaha injury lawyer at Berry Law as soon as possible in the aftermath of your accident so our caring and experienced auto accident lawyers can help with your case.