February 23, 2015
After being involved in an automobile accident, there will be a million questions flying through your head: How do I get my car fixed? Who will cover my medical bills? When can I get back to work? What is going to happen next?
At the Khonsari Law Group, we understand that being involved in a car accident is a stressful and confusing time. You need a clear estimate of when and how you will receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Every accident is different, so every personal injury case is different. Some may be settled in months; others can go on for over a year. What is important is that you have an attorney you trust working for you. Here is a step-by-step walkthrough of a typical personal injury lawsuit after a car accident, but keep in mind that things can change depending on the case.
1. Receive Medical Treatment
Your first step after an accident should always be to seek a medical professional. Even if you feel fine at the time of the accident, many conditions will not show up until days or even weeks after the accident. Make sure you get the care you need and see a physician after your accident.
You will also want to start documenting your expenses. Keep track of any medical bills and start documenting your loss of wages. Keeping track of all your bills related to the accident will make it easier for you to receive compensation later.
2. Hire an Attorney
After receiving medical attention, speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can help determine if you have a case, settle your claim, and guide you through the legal process of a personal injury case. They will review the details of the accident and help decide how much compensation you are entitled to.
3. Making a Demand and Negotiation
Many personal injury cases can be settled without either party ever seeing the inside of a courtroom. After you and your attorney have determined how much your case is worth, you will proceed to send the responsible party a demand for compensation.
At this point, the defendant may also hire an attorney to help negotiate the amount of money that you will accept. If both parties cannot reach an acceptable settlement, your attorney will proceed to file a lawsuit.
4. Filing a Lawsuit
Next, your attorney will file a complaint or petition with the local court. Both sides will take the case into a “discovery” period. They will investigate the facts of the case, gather evidence and take depositions from eyewitnesses.
5. Mediation
If a settlement can still not be reached, then both attorneys may sit down with a mediator. This is a neutral lawyer who is there to help both parties reach an agreement. If a settlement still is not met, then the case will proceed to court.
6. Trial
After all of the above, if an agreement has not yet been reached, both sides will have a chance to present their case in front of a judge and jury. The trial itself may only take a few days or weeks.
Go With the Attorneys You Can Trust
Every case is different. This guide only shows the progression of a typical case. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact the Khonsari Law Group today. We rn help guide you through the complicated legal system and help you receive the compensation you deserve. Do not wait; come into KLG today for a free consultation.