This is the next post in our series discussing bicycle accident cases in Hartford, Connecticut. Our previous post discussed the importance of expert witnesses in such cases. Specialists are often called upon to provide testimony regarding matters in their respective fields of expertise, including to establish the defendant’s liability and the victim’s damages. Expert opinions, when appropriately employed, can have a significant impact on the outcome of bike accident cases. This post will provide an overview of what plaintiffs can expect should their case proceed to trial. Trials can be complicated and it is important to retain a lawyer with experience in the courtroom to handle your case properly. If you or a loved one have been injured in a bicycle accident, contact our office today to speak with an attorney.
When the parties in a bike crash case cannot settle the matter outside of court, the case may proceed to a trial. The prospect of litigation can be intimidating for victims and their families. It is important, therefore, to have a basic understanding of what to expect during the process. As with other personal injury trials, the first step in a bike accident trial is the selection of the jury members. A group of potential jurors will be summoned to appear in court and asked a series of questions by the judge and attorneys for both parties. If their answers indicate that they may not be impartial in their evaluation of the case, they may be excluded from serving on the jury. Attorneys may not object to a juror on the basis of race, religion, sex, or any other discriminatory grounds. Once the final jury is selected, the case will begin.
Lawyers for the plaintiff (the victim) and the defendant will present their opening statements. This will provide an overview of their theory of the case including key facts and arguments that will be presented during the trial. Once complete, the plaintiff’s attorney presents their case, which includes calling witnesses to testify and presenting evidence regarding the defendant’s liability and the victim’s damages. The lawyer for the defendant then does the same. Counsel for the victim will have the chance to rebut evidence presented by the defense. During this phase of the trial, expert witnesses are often called upon to provide their specialized opinions regarding the fault of the parties, the victim’s injuries, and their estimated damages. Depending upon the complexities involved in the case, this phase of the trial may be lengthy. To end the proceeding, the lawyers for each side will make their closing arguments, after which the jury will deliberate and issue a verdict. Should they decide in the victim’s favor, they will also announce the damages owed to them by the defendant.
Our Hartford lawyers are experienced in bicycle accident trials and are ready to assist you. We also serve the areas of Wethersfield, New Britain, Rocky Hill, West and East Hartford, Bristol, Glastonbury, and Manchester, as well as the Middlesex County cities of Middletown and Cromwell.
