How To Strategize With Your Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

Now that you’ve found your Chicago car accident lawyer, it’s time to get to work. What is your game plan? How much work are you providing vs your attorney? How can you turn your weaknesses into strengths for your case? Everything from selecting the right evidence down to how you dress in court is part of your legal strategy - make it count. 

Information Your Lawyer Will Need From You

Once you've retained the services of a car accident lawyer, they will require specific information from you to effectively represent your interests and build a strong case. Firstly, they will need a detailed account of the accident, including how it occurred, the location, date, time, and weather conditions. Any photographic evidence, videos, or diagrams that depict the scene will be invaluable. Your lawyer will also request contact details of all parties involved, including witnesses, along with their statements if available. Documentation such as the police report, medical records detailing your injuries, and evidence of medical expenses will be crucial. They'll also need information about your insurance policy, correspondence with insurance companies, and any communication you've had with the other party or their insurer. If you've incurred any out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident, such as rental car costs, provide those details and associated receipts. Lastly, any prior or subsequent communications, like emails or texts discussing the accident, will be relevant for your lawyer to evaluate the full context of the incident and its aftermath.

What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do With That Information On Your Behalf?

The primary objective of your Chicago car accident attorney is to help clients secure compensation that adequately addresses medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and property damage.

One of the lawyer's main roles is gathering and analyzing evidence related to the accident. Evidence can include photographs of the scene, medical reports detailing injuries, witness testimonies, police reports, and any surveillance footage available. This evidence is critical in establishing the fault, determining the severity of injuries, and validating the associated costs.

Beyond gathering evidence, a car accident lawyer possesses an in-depth understanding of local and state traffic laws and how they apply to specific accident scenarios. By leveraging this expertise, the lawyer can make a more compelling case for their client's rights and entitlements.

Another crucial function of a car accident lawyer is negotiation. Insurance companies often aim to minimize the payout to the victim. A lawyer uses the compiled evidence to negotiate assertively with the insurance adjusters. They highlight the long-term consequences of the injuries, related expenses, and emotional distress faced by their clients, thereby making a stronger case for higher compensation.

If negotiations with the insurance company reach an impasse, the attorney is prepared to take the case to court. In a lawsuit setting, the lawyer presents the evidence to a judge or jury, working to convince them of the legitimacy of the client's claims and the need for a favorable judgment.

In essence, a car accident lawyer employs a combination of evidence gathering, legal expertise, and strategic negotiation to ensure their clients receive the compensation they deserve, whether that's through a negotiated settlement or court verdict.

Do Car Accident Lawyers Use 3D Modeling Techniques?

Yes, in the realm of personal injury law and particularly in car accident cases, some lawyers have started utilizing 3D modeling to recreate and stage accident scenes as evidence. This advanced technological approach offers several benefits. Firstly, a 3D model provides a vivid and accurate visual representation of the accident scene, enabling judges, juries, and other relevant parties to gain a clearer understanding of the events leading up to, during, and following the collision. This visual aid can be especially impactful in complex cases where the sequence of events is contested. Secondly, 3D modeling can simulate the perspectives of different parties involved, such as drivers, passengers, or pedestrians, providing a comprehensive view of the accident. By integrating data from various sources, like eyewitness accounts, police reports, and expert testimonies, 3D models can offer a compelling and cohesive narrative that traditional 2D diagrams or photos might not capture as effectively. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that the use of 3D modeling and other advanced tools will become more prevalent in legal proceedings to bolster arguments and provide clearer insights into accident dynamics.

Keep Track of Your Medical Records

Maintaining and tracking medical procedures, bills, and diagnoses are crucial components in the course of a car accident lawsuit. Firstly, these documents serve as tangible evidence of the injuries sustained and the subsequent medical attention required, directly linking the accident to the injuries claimed. The comprehensive documentation helps in establishing the severity and duration of injuries, which can influence the compensation amount. Secondly, detailed medical records can refute any challenges or doubts raised by the opposing party regarding the legitimacy or extent of injuries. Furthermore, tracking medical bills provides a clear record of expenses incurred, ensuring victims are appropriately compensated for both present and future medical needs. In essence, meticulous record-keeping bolsters the credibility of the victim's claims and is instrumental in securing a fair settlement or judgment in their favor.

Lawyers must meet a reasonable burden of proof in order to “win” a case, and the more information you can provide the better.