What to Do When Getting Sued After a Car Accident
In life, things are not always bound to go according to plan. This is the case for most situations, even as we put our best foot forward. Life events can transpire in several ways, some of which can be unfavourable to your circumstances. For example, getting into a motor collision can be life-changing in the long term.
Should you be the driver who caused the accident, there are several situations to expect. The incident victim could sue you, necessitating action. While it could be as simple as rigorously defending yourself in court, there are other tips. Remember the following guidelines to defend yourself from a car accident lawsuit.
Tip #1: Negotiating
In the immediate aftermath of a car collision, there may be instances of damage being reduced. If so, you can successfully speak with the other party. Of course, you should expect resistance if you were the one who caused the car accident. Be as level-headed and calm as you can, and ensure you communicate your intentions.
There will be legal hurdles, but negotiating your situation here can be useful. If the other driver is willing to listen, you could mitigate the chances of the case going to court. Sometimes, there may be no viable way forward, and you must proceed to court. On the other hand, there is no harm in trying regardless!
Tip #2: Insurance
Car collisions will generally involve one of several parties as the case is ongoing. A common denominator within this situation is that of an insurance company. Since all drivers are legally required to be insured, they will be reached out to eventually work with you. After the accident has transpired, exchange your information with the other party.
When that person decides to sue you, your insurance company will respond to the claim. They are one of the first parties to respond to your situation. While they determine other necessary details within the case, you can focus on other key steps. That sentiment is crucial to prepare yourself for the potentially long road ahead.
Tip #3: Car Accident Lawyer
No matter where you are in your legal journey, you must defend yourself against the lawsuit. As such, getting the right lawyer like Walker Head will be imperative for the proceedings ahead of you. Motor collision lawyers are the best professionals to contact, specializing in situations like yours.
After reaching out to one, explain your situation to them in as much detail as possible. You are encouraged to speak to multiple car accident lawyers for your interest. Since every professional will have their method of handling defence cases, this becomes crucial. Once you are comfortable with one lawyer, you can move forward with them in your corner!
Tip #4: Working Together
Your insurance company and lawyer are the two most important parties in your current case. Naturally, these two parties will collaborate and try to devise strategies to use in court. If you do not choose a lawyer of your own volition, your insurance company will take care of that step themselves.
Then, both your insurance company representative and lawyer will ask to meet with you. Meeting with these professionals is key to a favourable outcome of the situation. Always keep details of these meetings confidential, and do not inform others of what is happening.
Tip #5: Legal Proceedings
The other party will probably take you to court if a settlement cannot be negotiated. Do not panic, as your legal representation is working in your corner. Generally speaking, there will be some form of a discovery phase present. It is here that all aspects of the car accident will be assessed and analyzed.
Down the line, evidence will be presented from both sides and the perspective of witnesses. Remember, allow your lawyer to guide you as much as possible. They will be able to advise you on how to react and how to speak to the relevant parties involved in the case.
Tip #6: Concluding The Lawsuit
Unfortunately, many car accident lawsuits do not appear favourable to the one who committed the incident. As a result, you could try to mitigate the consequences as much as possible with the right lawyer.
You may be legally forced to pay damages to the other party at other times. If you are lucky, however, your lawyer could argue for the case to be thrown out too!