When you are injured due to the negligence of another person, whether it be a speeding driver or a negligent property owner, you can suffer considerable number of damages as a result. As such, you may have discussed your options with a Tom Green County, Texas personal injury lawyer to enlist assistance in the fight for compensation. However, it’s important to understand what to expect if your personal injury case goes to trial. The following blog explores when this ocurs and how this process works so you can best prepare.
Why Might a Personal Injury Case Go to Trial?
In the overwhelming majority of instances, personal injury claims are settled before they progress to a trial. This means that the injured party and the defendant are able to reach an agreement on the compensation the victim should be awarded through negotiation.
However, there are instances in which the two parties cannot agree on a settlement amount, and as such, the case may need to be presented to a judge and jury to determine the outcome. This is often the case with cases that are incredibly complicated, like those involving catastrophic injuries or that result in permanent disabilities.
What Happens During This Process?
If your case moves to trial, generally, the first thing you should understand is the structure of these cases. Typically, each party will begin with an opening statement before moving into the presentation of evidence. It is at this point in the trial that your medical records, photos and videos, witness statements, and incident reports will be presented to the court to help establish the basis of your claims. Each party will have the ability to present its own evidence.
Additionally, it is at this point that each party can call witnesses. These can range from people present at the scene when your injuries were inflicted, like bystanders, to the police officers who responded to the call. In some instances, expert witnesses may be called to testify. These are individuals who are well-established and respected in their fields and can provide further insight into the extent of your injuries. Both your attorney and the defense attorney can question these individuals.
After all evidence and witnesses have been presented and questioned, each side will give its closing arguments. Essentially, this acts as a final call to the jury and judge to consider their side of the trial. Finally, the judge or jury will issue a decision on the matter, including how much compensation, if any, should be awarded.
Going through a personal injury can be devastating, and knowing your case will go to trial can be overwhelming. That is why it is critical to connect with an experienced attorney at the Mathis Law Firm, PLLC. Our team will do everything in our power to help you fight for the compensation and justice you deserve when you are hurt due to the negligent actions of another person. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for you.
