Did you slip and fall at the local grocery store and end up out of work while a broken bone was healing? Perhaps someone else caused a car accident that left you injured and unable to work. No matter your reason for wanting to take a case to court, understanding how to file a personal injury lawsuit is important.
Choose The Right Law Firm
First, you’ll want to hire a personal injury law firm Hillsborough County. Look for a firm that has a solid history of winning personal injury cases, especially if many of those cases are like the one you plan to file. The right law firm will be licensed, have a favorable reputation among former clients, and provide clear communication regarding your potential case.
Gather Your Evidence
The lawyer you hire will help you to gather the evidence that you’ll need. This may include surveillance footage of your accident, medical bills, proof of lost income, proof of damaged property that you need to pay for, and more. Sometimes, the lawyer will hire experts to recreate accident scenes or testify in court regarding the extent of your injuries. If any police reports were filed, such as after a car accident, those will need to be gathered as part of the evidence as well.
Begin the Mediation Process
After you gather evidence, your lawyer will begin the mediation process. Typically, he or she will try to settle out of court by talking to the defendant’s legal team and insurance companies first. However, if they cannot come to an agreement, you may find yourself in court. The court process includes jury selection, opening arguments, presentation of evidence, closing arguments, and jury deliberation. It can take days, weeks, or even longer, depending on the circumstances surrounding your accident.
Don’t let yourself drown in medical debt after an accident that wasn’t your fault. A lawyer can help you fight for the compensation that you deserve.
