Auto accidents occur every day in San Diego, and many of them lead to injuries. When this situation arises, the best step to take is to contact an accident lawyer.
Auto accidents occur every day in San Diego, and many of them lead to injuries. When this situation arises, the best step to take is to contact an accident lawyer. San Diego residents need to understand their legal rights when this situation arises, and below you’ll see what it takes to file accident cases in San Diego. Injury attorneys are highly advisable given the technicalities and intricacies required to properly file a claim.
Step One – Identify the Defendant or Defendants
Before you file a claim without the help of an accident lawyer, San Diego courthouses are like any others – they need a defendant to be properly identified in order for a claim to be valid. Every auto accident is different, so you’ll need to identify the other driver in the accident, understand whether the other driver was operating as an individual or driving an employee vehicle and then decide whether the other driver’s insurance company needs to be included in the claim. Not to mention, this initial filing with the courthouse needs to be done before the statute of limitations runs, as doing so afterwards will lead to a dismissal of your case.
Step Two – Begin the Discovery Process
Prior to any lawsuit going to trial, the law provides for a period of time known as discovery. Discovery is the process by which evidence is exchanged between the parties in a fair and equitable manner, and this can include witness statements, police reports, insurance documentation, medical records, affidavits and the process of depositions. Failing to handle this step properly without the help of San Diego injury attorneys can lead to a negative result.
Step Three – Prepare for Trial
After you’ve gathered the evidence you feel you need in order to be ready for trial, you need to prepare your evidence, your witnesses, your opening and closing statements and the questioning you’ll be handling with all of the witnesses that will be appearing both for you and the defense. The jury will need to understand your side of the story clearly, and you’ll need to be ready to deal with witnesses from the defense who have been prepped by experienced defense attorneys. You will also need to be familiar with the rules of procedure and evidence.
Ultimately, filing an accident case in San Diego is a difficult task for someone who does not have the proper experience.
