When it comes to any legal case, there is a process that is involved before it is settled. Personal injury cases include things like auto accidents, slip-and-falls, and dog attacks. If you suffered an injury because of someone else’s negligence, you should receive proper justice. It is good to know what to expect when bringing on a personal injury case, so here is a timeline to help you get an idea of the process.

Accident Occurs

Before you can bring on a personal injury case, some sort of injury has to be inflicted. The first step in this case is the accident itself. You want to document everything that happened and collect all relevant information (witness contacts, weather conditions, pictures, etc).  

Seek Medical Attention

After any type of accident occurs, you want to seek medical attention as soon as you can. You may not always notice injuries right away because of shock, so it’s a good idea to get checked out even if you feel fine. Take pictures of visible injuries and be sure to collect medical records from your doctor’s visit after the accident.

The Investigation

Once you have consulted with an attorney and decided to hire one, that’s when the investigation begins. Your attorney will interview you to get information on all details of the accident. This is why you should document as much as you can. They will ask about all of your medical history and collect all medical bills and records. Make sure to be as open and honest as possible with your answers.

File a Lawsuit

Most personal injury cases don’t make it to court because they are settled first. You want to make sure your attorney has your best interests in mind and analyzes the entire situation before deciding that settlement is the best option. In some personal injury cases like auto accidents, the other party’s insurance company will take care of the damages. If the case is beyond settling, then it’s time to file a lawsuit and take the case to court.

Discovery

This is the process of investigating the opposing party’s arguments and defenses. This helps to give each side a better idea of how they need to prepare for their case. Depositions take place during this time which is when you give your testimony under oath so that the stenographer can record it.

Personal Injury Trial

Before the actual trial, they will often try mediation or arbitration to settle the case first. If that doesn’t work, then the trial will proceed. Personal injury trials can be anywhere from just a few hours to a few months. All of the information obtained during the discovery process will be presented for a jury and they will decide the outcome.

If You or a Loved One Has Suffered a Personal Injury, Contact The Snyder Law Group Today

The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts settlements*. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, for more information and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google +, and LinkedIn.