Time To Take The Stand

If you have been involved in a car accident, you might end up taking the stand. Many personal injury cases settle without a court experience. However, some come to trial because of disagreements about who caused the accident and how much is owed to the victim. Be prepared for your time on the stand by following the below tips.

  • Get through discovery successfully. Before you take the stand, you may be able to do some practicing. Discovery allows the plaintiffs and defendants to trade information about evidence, witnesses, and more. You can let your personal injury lawyer handle most discovery actions. However, the deposition is something you cannot miss, and you should not want to. Depositions provide victims with a way to prepare for the upcoming trial by approximating what happens when they are questioned. Talk to your personal injury lawyer about preparing for your deposition by reviewing your case information.
  • Zero in on what is at stake. Cases that end up in court usually revolve around certain issues. Fault is one issue that can create the need to sue the other driver. Other common issues include disagreements over the amount of money owed to the victim. Naturally, the insurer for the other driver is reluctant to pay a penny more than they must. Your side must convince them that you are owed a certain amount. That is best done by putting you on the stand to speak about your accident experience. Speak to your lawyer about the issue that led to a court case. That will allow you to focus on what is important when you review your case information. For instance, if the other side is disputing your future medical needs, you should be ready to speak about what is in store for you and the importance of being treated. You did not ask to be hurt in a car accident and your testimony can be a powerful wedge to win the case. 

Don't Get Bullied

Your fiercest time on the stand will be at the hands of the insurance company lawyers. They may not be very nice to you and it's best if you are ready for some confrontational questioning. With that in mind:

  • Don't allow the attorney to put words in your mouth.
  • Take your time when answering questions.
  • Remain calm regardless of the questions and allegations.
  • Ask for clarification if you need it.
  • Beware of open-ended or vague questions.

For more tips on what it takes to take the stand, speak to a personal accident attorney


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