If you are facing a trucking accident lawsuit in Chicago, Allegretti & Associates has the details you should know about the litigation process, before you go to court.
Step 1: Consult with an Experience Attorney
You need to discuss the specifics of your case with a lawyer like Jim Allegretti, who has experience filing lawsuits on behalf of tractor trailer accident victims. If Jim determines you have a case, then you will file a lawsuit. He will base his decision on who he believes is liable (negligently responsible) for the accident, the damages you have suffered, and whether or not he believes you can collect.
Step 2: File the Lawsuit
As soon as your case is filed and set for trial, you no longer have to worry about the statute of limitations expiring. Plus, the defendants in the case are more likely to work with you to reach a settlement once a trial date has been established, because you have shown you are serious about pursuing your claims.
Step 3: Discovery
During this period, your case will be investigated by your attorney and the lawyers for any other defendants involved. The results will be disclosed to everyone involved, according to the law. Expect to provide information to all parties, including your medical history, copies of personal documents, and answers to written questions (interrogatories).
Step 4: Trial or Settlement
The good news is that the vast majority of civil lawsuits are settled before the trial date. Trucking companies, in particular, do not want to risk losing the case, since such a black mark on their records would have an adverse effect on future business. A settlement should guarantee that your medical bills, lost wages and other claims are sufficiently compensated for whatever amount of time agreed upon by your attorney and the defendants’ representatives.
You will still be completely prepared to go to trial by your attorney. If you do wind up in court, you should remember that the burden of proof is upon you. Your attorney will present evidence of your claims, including written reports, authorized witness testimony, and physical exhibits. You should expect to testify and be cross-examined in court, but don’t worry – your lawyer will practice with you beforehand so that you are prepared for whatever questions or tactics are posed by opposing counsel. At the end of the trial, a jury will be instructed on the laws regarding decisions in semi truck injury cases, which they will consider while deliberating. They will then return with a verdict.
The best thing you can do to ensure a successful conclusion to your 18 wheeler lawsuit is to retain an attorney with the skills and knowledge to make a strong case on your behalf, in order to secure the best possible settlement. Jim Allegretti of Chicago’s Allegretti & Associates will guide you through the entire litigation process and see to it that your best interests are vigorously represented.