If you’ve been hurt because of someone else’s negligent behavior, a personal injury lawsuit is one way to get accountability and financial support. These lawsuits are meant to help people get paid for their medical bills, lost income, and other costs that come with an injury. Understanding how this process works is important so you know what to expect going forward. Below are some of the primary steps of a personal injury lawsuit.
Seek Medical Attention
See a doctor right away after any injury, even if you think it’s minor. Medical records link your injuries directly to the accident and show their seriousness. Prompt care can also help prevent your condition from getting worse, and waiting too long might give the other side a reason to question your claim.
Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer
It’s always a good idea to talk to a personal injury lawyer in Washington, DC who has a lot of experience with the type of personal injury case you’re dealing with. An attorney can explain your rights and what you should expect moving forward. A good lawyer also knows how to deal with insurance companies and deadlines that could hurt your case if missed.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Your injury lawyer will collect information to support your claim. This might include accident reports, photos, medical records, and statements from people who saw what happened. Gathering solid evidence now can make your case much stronger when it comes time to negotiate or go to court.
Filing the Lawsuit (Complaint)
If you can’t reach a fair settlement with the other side, your lawyer will file a formal complaint with the court. This document explains your story, what the other party did wrong, and what compensation you’re seeking. This starts the official legal process.
Discovery Phase
Both sides look at each other’s evidence, ask questions, and request documents from each other. This stage can take a while and may involve depositions, where you and other parties answer questions under oath but not in front of a judge. Discovery helps everyone understand the facts before going in front of a judge or jury.
Settlement Negotiations
Many personal injury claims settle before trial. Lawyers from both sides talk and try to agree on how much money will be paid to resolve the case. Sometimes these talks happen early, and other times not until just before trial.
Pre-Trial Motions and Trial Preparation
As the trial gets closer, both lawyers may file motions asking the judge to make decisions about certain evidence or issues, such as pain and suffering calculations. Your attorney also gets witnesses ready and makes sure all the facts are organized for your day in court.
The Trial
If your case doesn’t settle, both sides present their evidence and question witnesses before a judge or jury. Each lawyer makes arguments and tries to prove their side of the story. After both sides rest, it’s up to the judge or jury to make a decision.
Verdict and Judgment
Once the trial ends, the judge or jury decides if the other side is responsible for your injuries. If you win, you will receive the amount of compensation they believe is appropriate. If not, your case is over unless you choose to appeal.
If you have questions about a personal injury case or need help getting started, reach out to Lightfoot Law, PLLC today to schedule your free consultation.