As the plaintiff in a car accident claim, it is important to understand what to expect during the legal process. One aspect of the process is the questioning by the defendant’s lawyer, also known as cross-examination. Visit hutzlerlaw.com to learn more about the legal process of a car accident claim.
If you are worried as to what questions a defendant’s lawyer will ask, then have a look at the following to understand the types of questions an attorney might ask;
What Happened Leading Up to the Accident?
One of the first things that the defendant’s lawyer may ask you is about the events leading up to the accident. This may include questions about where you were going, the weather and road conditions at the time, and whether you were distracted in any way. The lawyer may also ask about any prior incidents or problems with your vehicle, as well as your driving history. It is important to be honest and accurate when answering these questions, as any inconsistencies in the account may be used against you.
Examples:
- What happened leading up to the accident?
- Where were you coming from and going to at the time of the accident?
- What was the weather like at the time of the accident?
- How fast were you and the other driver going?
- What lane were you both in, and who had the right of way?
The Accident Itself
The defendant’s lawyer will also likely ask you about the accident itself. This may include questions about the speed of the vehicles involved, the location and position of the vehicles at the time of the collision, and any actions taken by you or the other driver before the accident. The lawyer may also ask about any damage to the vehicles and injuries sustained. It is important to be as specific and detailed as possible when answering these questions, as your account will be used to help determine fault in the accident.
Examples:
- How do you remember the accident happening?
- What do you remember about the other driver’s actions leading up to the accident?
- What do you remember about your own actions leading up to the accident?
Your Injuries and Treatment
If you sustained injuries in the accident, the defendant’s lawyer would likely ask you about the nature and extent of your injuries, as well as any medical treatment you received. The lawyer may ask about your medical history and any pre-existing conditions that may have been exacerbated by the accident. It is important to be honest, and thorough when answering these questions, as the defendant’s lawyer may try to use any discrepancies to downplay the severity of your injuries.
Examples:
- What injuries did you sustain as a result of the accident?
- How were these injuries treated?
- Have you missed work or had any other financial losses as a result of the accident?
Your Damages
The defendant’s lawyer may also ask you about the damages you are seeking in your car accident claim. This may include questions about your lost wages, medical expenses, and property damage. The lawyer may also ask about any other losses or expenses that you incurred as a result of the accident. It is important to be able to provide documentation or other evidence to support your claims.
It is important, to be honest and accurate when answering these questions. It is also a good idea to consult with a lawyer before speaking with the defendant’s lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected. Remember, lawyers are natural lie detectors. If they sense a manipulation, they will catch it and cross-question you extensively, which might jeopardize the outcome of your case. Therefore, don’t exaggerate the facts, and always be factual about your answers.
