The initial step in the process typically involves scheduling an initial consultation with a car accident lawyer. During this meeting, you’ll provide a comprehensive account of the accident, detailing relevant aspects like weather and road conditions, as well as the actions of all involved parties. Your lawyer will also collect details about your injuries, medical treatment, and ongoing care needs. This information forms the bedrock of your case and will be meticulously examined by your lawyer to assess the viability of your claim and devise potential legal strategies.

Evidence gathering

After your attorney comprehensively grasps the details of the accident, they will initiate the process of collecting further evidence to bolster your claim.

1. Interviewing witnesses – Your lawyer may reach out to any witnesses identified in the initial consultation or police report. These firsthand accounts can provide valuable insights into the events leading up to the accident and help establish liability.
2. Obtaining surveillance footage – If the accident occurred in an area with surveillance cameras, such as intersections or businesses, your lawyer may attempt to obtain any relevant footage. This visual evidence is crucial in determining the sequence of events and identifying any potential contributing factors.
3. Consulting accident reconstruction experts – In more complex cases, your lawyer may enlist the services of accident reconstruction experts. These professionals use scientific methods and representing the car accident victims to analyze the physical evidence and recreate the accident scene. Their findings can help substantiate your version of events and establish fault.
4. Reviewing vehicle data – Modern vehicles are equipped with various data recording devices, such as event data recorders (EDRs) and dashcams. Your lawyer may subpoena these records to gather information about vehicle speed, brake application, and other relevant data points.

Investigating the other party

While building your case, your lawyer will also thoroughly investigate the other party or parties involved in the accident. 

• Reviewing their insurance policies – Your lawyer will obtain copies of the other party’s insurance policies to determine the available coverage limits and ensure that any potential settlement or award falls within those limits.
• Examining their driving history – Your lawyer may request the other party’s driving record to identify any patterns of reckless or negligent behavior that could strengthen your case.
• Investigating their background – In some cases, your Cleveland Car Accident Lawyer may delve into the other party’s background, including their employment history and potential sources of income. This information is useful in assessing their ability to pay any awarded damages.

Settlement negotiations

Armed with the evidence gathered during the investigation, your lawyer will be in a better position to negotiate a settlement with the other party’s insurance company or legal representatives. Settlement negotiations often involve back-and-forth discussions, with each side presenting their arguments and supporting evidence. Your lawyer’s primary goal during these negotiations is to secure a fair and reasonable settlement that adequately compensates you for your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. They will leverage the strength of your case and the evidence gathered during the investigation to advocate for the best possible outcome.