Car accidents can cause serious physical, emotional, and financial harm to a person. While dealing with injuries, victims are expected to work with their insurance company to reach a settlement regarding compensation. While most claims tend to be settled with the insurance company, it is possible for the case to have to go to trial in order to settle. In the event that it does, it is important to know what to expect. To learn more, continue reading below and contact a New Jersey personal injury attorney for help with your case.
Why Would I Go to Trial?
There are two primary reasons why a car accident case may go to trial. This may be if you and the insurance company cannot agree about who is at fault for the accident. It may also be because neither party is satisfied with the compensation that was proposed. When a case goes to trial, you have the opportunity to present evidence that backs up your case in an effort to receive more compensation than you were originally offered. However, it is important to also be aware that there is a possibility that you can be proven at fault for the accident and harm your chances at compensation.
What Does a Car Accident Trial Look Like?
In order for a car accident trial to begin, a panel of jurors needs to be selected. This is done by asking questions to eliminate potential bias among the jurors so that they best suit the case. The trial begins with opening statements so that each side can effectively present their argument to the jury. Typically, an insurance company will claim you were at fault for the accident and therefore should not receive compensation. When opening statements are over, your attorney can present the evidence that proves you were not.
To conclude the trial, both sides will make closing arguments in an effort to convince the jury to believe them. After reviewing the case, the jury can come to a conclusion and share their verdict with the judge. It is important to know that this can take only hours or even days depending on the case. If you win the trial and the other party does not file an appeal, you may begin recovering compensation.
Contact our Firm
If you have been the victim of the negligence of another in an automobile accident, please contact my office as quickly as possible following the subject accident. It is important to consult with us early on so that we may begin the process of fighting for your rights in regard to any potential claim that you may have. The process is complicated and requires the expertise of a qualified New Jersey personal injury attorney. CONTACT US TODAY!