If you want to file a personal injury claim for a truck accident, but are not sure about the steps or the process involved, then contact a Big Rig crash lawyer in Houston, TX from John K. Zaid & Associates. There are at least eight steps to the process, three of which happen before even filing a lawsuit with the court.
- Consultation
First, it is always recommended that you speak with a Big Rigs accident lawyer in Houston, Texas regarding legal matters. Many personal injury attorneys provide one-time free consultations for prospective clients, including us! During this initial meet and greet, we will ask questions about your claim and discuss its merits.
- Investigation and Research
If the case is a good fit for a Texas Big Rigs accident lawyer at John K. Zaid & Associates, then we will offer to represent you. If you agree, then our law office will begin investigating the incident and researching legal precedent and strategy right away.
- Presentation of a Demand Letter
Once a Houston Big Rigs accident lawyer in TX has a good idea of your injury and the liability of the accused, we can help you craft a demand letter. This letter will express what you want from the at-fault party and why you believe you deserve it, based on the evidence. Once the letter is submitted, the defendant will have an opportunity to reply.
- Filing a Lawsuit
If the demand letter did not spark mediation and settlement, then you may have no choice but to go to court to seek restitution. If you decide you want to continue legal action, then a truck accident lawyer in Houston, TX will help you file your lawsuit.
- Distribution of Evidence
Once the suit is filed, both parties will gain access to the evidence and arguments of either side. This portion of the lawsuit is called discovery.
- Settlement Negotiations
After the discovery phase, most personal injury lawsuits will go to mediation, where both sides will attempt to negotiate a settlement. Many cases end during this phase of the suit. However, some claims continue on to trial. It is important that you have help from a Big Rigs accident lawyer in Houston during the negotiation, and that you speak with us before accepting any offer.
- Trial
If the parties cannot come to an agreement, then they will need to appear before a judge for a trial. During the trial, a jury will hear the facts, determine fault and make a determination about damages and restitution.
- Possible Appeal
The end of a trial does not necessarily signal the end of the lawsuit. Either party is allowed to appeal the final verdict, but that process can be complicated.
If you are considering filing a personal injury lawsuit, then do yourself a favor and hire an experienced attorney from our law firm. While personal injury claims are civil matters, they still require significant legal expertise to argue. Contact a Houston, TX Big Rigs accident lawyer today from John K. Zaid & Associates for strategic support.
