Car Accident Trials in Westlake Village

You are much more likely to settle a claim for damages from a car crash through private negotiations with an insurance provider than in civil court. Until you have signed a settlement offer, however, you have the right to file suit with a court to seek compensation for your injuries. Sometimes getting a civil court involved may be the best—or only—way to get the financial compensation you deserve.

Car accident trials in Westlake Village can be legally and personally challenging, but you do not have to fear court proceedings if you have the support of trustworthy legal counsel. Our auto accident attorneys at Block LLP have extensive experience obtaining favorable results in cases similar to yours. If you choose us to represent you, we could fight to ensure the best possible verdict for you.

Why Do Car Accident Claims Go to Trial?

Settling a car accident claim out of court is often quicker, less expensive, and more immediately beneficial for everyone than a civil court proceeding. However, in order to obtain a fair settlement, you must be able to negotiate with an opposing party who is willing to approach the matter in good faith—respecting your best interests and rights as well as their own.

There are many reasons that settlement negotiations between insurance companies and injured victims can fail, such as disputes over who is at fault, disagreements over the severity of injuries, and concerns about who is liable for specific losses, among others. Because of this, it is sometimes necessary to go to trial to protect your interests in Westlake Village car crash claims.

Basic Steps in a Civil Court Proceeding

If you cannot reach a fair settlement agreement before the applicable statute of limitations expires, or if it becomes clear that settlement talks are not going to be productive, we could help you file a complaint in civil court. This formally starts the litigation process. After filing suit, pre-trial proceedings, such as discovery and witness depositions, take place, allowing both sides to obtain a complete picture of the case. The court will then schedule a trial date.

Depending on the circumstances, your civil trial for a Westlake Village auto accident may be a bench trial before a judge or a trial with a judge and jury. In either situation, both sides would have a chance to make opening and closing statements, present evidence and testimony to support their arguments, and cross-examine the opposition’s evidence, much like in a criminal trial.

Contact a Westlake Village Attorney To Get Help With Your Car Accident Trial

Even if trial proceedings have already begun, you can still settle a car accident claim out of court prior to a judge issuing a final verdict. Once car accident trials in Westlake Village begin, however, it is important to be prepared to resolve claims through the court proceedings. Our team could provide invaluable assistance through this legal process.

With Block LLP, you have support at every stage of the civil claims process from our capable and compassionate legal professionals. Call us today for a free consultation.