If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, it can be overwhelming to know what to do next. This is where a personal injury lawyer in Austin can step in, offering crucial assistance to those who have suffered injuries from various causes. Whether your injury resulted from medical negligence, a construction site accident, a truck or automobile wreck, wrongful death, or birth injuries, an Austin personal injury attorney is there to help.
While every personal injury case is unique, they generally follow a similar process. It’s important to understand that hiring a lawyer does not mean you will automatically go to court. In fact, most personal injury claims are settled out of court, saving you the time, expense, and stress of a trial. So, don’t let the fear of going to court stop you from seeking the legal help you need.
The Personal Injury Process
Initial Steps
Your lawyer will begin by handling much of the paperwork and gathering evidence for your case. This can include collecting witness statements, taking photographs, obtaining official reports, and more. These steps are essential to establishing how the accident happened and determining who was at fault, helping your attorney decide whether to proceed with your case.
Medical Care and Evidence
If you’ve received medical treatment for your injuries, your attorney will need to wait until you have been released from care or your condition has stabilized before moving forward with your case. Once you’ve reached that point, your lawyer will gather your medical records and other relevant information to assess the damages you may be entitled to. It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately after your injury, as having documented medical evidence is vital for your lawyer to successfully pursue your claim.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
If an insurance company is involved, your personal injury attorney will contact them to negotiate a settlement. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will then file a lawsuit or demand arbitration, a process in which an agreed-upon decision is made. The defendant—the party at fault—will have 30 days to respond to the lawsuit or arbitration.
Discovery Process
If your case proceeds to this stage, the next step is the “discovery” process. During discovery, your lawyer will obtain information from various parties or witnesses involved in your case. This can include depositions, where parties, witnesses, or experts provide sworn statements about the incident. Although discovery can be time-consuming and costly due to the extensive work involved, your lawyer will be with you every step of the way, ensuring you are prepared and supported.
Trial or Settlement
After discovery, your lawyer will request a trial date, which will depend on the court’s schedule. The time between discovery and trial can vary, depending on how busy the court is. Your attorney will either assist you during the trial or continue working towards a settlement if that is an option.
How the Lawyer Referral Service of Central Texas Can Assist
The Lawyer Referral Service of Central Texas in Austin is a non-profit organization dedicated to matching individuals with the right personal injury attorney. Your initial consultation is always free! If you’ve been injured due to negligence, contact us to get the help you need. Our experienced intake staff will guide you through the process and connect you with the appropriate legal assistance. For more information, call 512-472-8303, toll-free at (866) 303-8303, or fill out our online contact form here.
