What Happens After a Deposition in a Car Accident Case?
For many car accident victims, a deposition serves as a crucial milestone, since one of the biggest and often most challenging parts of the litigation process is complete. But, you may be wondering what happens after the deposition. Here is what you can expect.
The Court Reporter Provides a Written Transcript
The court reporter will create a record of everything that is said throughout your deposition, by using a recording device or by taking notes in shorthand. It will include the questions asked, your responses, and any other interactions within the court environment. Once the deposition has concluded, the court reporter will use the next few weeks to create a verbatim report or an account of the deposition in its exact wording. This report will be a critical piece of evidence throughout litigation, to help establish either what you did or did not say regarding the car accident.
Both Parties Review the Deposition
Each side will receive a copy and have a chance to review the transcript of the deposition carefully, to look for inaccuracies or errors. If you notice any misinformation or parts where you accidentally misspoke, notify your Minneapolis car accident attorney. In some cases, it may prompt your attorney to subpoena more witnesses to depose. Another witness(es) may be needed to either show a full, accurate picture of what took place during your accident or to dispute information presented as fact by the opposing side.
Once your attorney has completed reviewing the deposition transcript, he or she will be able to give you a better idea of the outcome to expect from your claim.
Independent Medical Examination
Following the deposition, the defendant may request that you complete an “independent medical examination.” This is fairly common in car accident cases. The defendant’s insurance company will most likely choose the doctor, who will perform the exam. The insurer will then compare their doctor’s assessment to the one provided by your treating physician.
Your attorney will help you prepare for this exam since the insurer’s intent is typically to find ways to reduce your compensation. The doctor evaluating you may try to trip you up or find evidence that your injuries did not occur in the car accident or do not impact your life in the way you initially stated. Listen to your attorney’s advice regarding what you should say, and do not offer any unnecessary information, which can unintentionally hurt your claim.
Settlement or Trial
Once the deposition and independent medical examinations are complete, the parties will most likely go through another round of negotiations. This period can be lengthy, but the vast majority of car accident cases settle before trial. If a fair agreement can be reached, you can accept the offer and begin the resolution of your claim. However, if the defendant will not settle for a fair amount, your attorney may recommend going to trial.
Receiving Payment
Whether you reach a settlement agreement or the court renders a favorable verdict in your claim, the next step is payment. Once a settlement offer with an insurance company has been signed, they typically have 30 days to pay out your compensation. If that time period has passed, and you still have not received your settlement, contact your attorney.
Speak to Minneapolis Car Accident Lawyer About Your Case
If you are concerned about giving a deposition after being involved in a car accident, contact Hall Law P.A. Our Minneapolis personal injury lawyers are experts handling car accident cases and can help guide you through every step of your case and ensure you recover the compensation you are entitled to. Schedule a free consultation today by messaging us online, or call 800-292-1979.