This is the next post in our series on the handling of Hartford, Connecticut car accident cases. Our last article discussed how comparative fault allows auto wreck victims to recover damages, even if they were partially to blame for the incident. The concept of comparative fault is one reason why it is important that you contact a personal injury attorney, as soon as possible. Doing so will allow you to gain a better understanding of your situation. In this article we will discuss the process of proving a defendant’s liability. If you or a loved one are in need of assistance then call our office today to speak with a lawyer.
The discovery process can allow Hartford car accident victims to gather proof of the defendant’s negligence
In car accident cases in which there is a dispute as to who was at fault, it is vital that the victim gather proof of the defendant’s negligence. The most important tool for gathering such evidence are those provided through a process known as “discovery.” We previously discussed the use of discovery in trucking accident cases. These same tools are available to the victims of an auto wreck. These tools can be used to require that a defendant provide answers to written questions, that they provide records, documents, or other physical objects, and that they allow themselves to be questioned in the presence of a court reporter. The evidence acquired through this process can, in turn, show that a defendant was more responsible for an accident than was originally thought (as explained in the “distracted driving” example in our last article).
An important point to stress is that, contrary to what is shown in popular media, car accident cases are not won with “surprise evidence” unveiled at trial. Instead, trials in such matters are won through the presentation of evidence which is methodically collected through the discovery process. Failing to gather such information can result in one not being able to present the facts of their case to a jury. The type of evidence that is needed will always depend on the specific facts of the situation. This is why Hartford car accident victims should retain an attorney who is experienced in handling such matters.
A Hartford car accident lawyer will take other steps to prove a case
Evidence is discovered and obtained beyond the discovery process. For example, a victim’s attorney may retain an accident reconstructionist in order to prepare a model of how the incident occurred, and who was at fault. Also, counsel can hire an investigator to visit the scene of the incident, to interview potential witnesses, and to find other sources of information. These types of steps can be time-consuming and will require up-front costs by the firm you hire. When interviewing law firms, it is important to ask your potential representative whether they are willing to take such steps.
Our Hartford car accident lawyers have been serving the greater area for decades. We are honored to serve those in our community and we take great pride in doing so. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation. We also service the areas of Wethersfield, New Britain, Rocky Hill, East and West Hartford, Bristol, Glastonbury, and Manchester, as well as the Middlesex County cities of Middletown and Cromwell.
