When you get into a car accident, it’s rare that you and the other driver are the only ones who saw what happened. In most accidents, at least a few people nearby will have witnessed the wreck. Those witnesses can play an important role in your car accident case and may help show that the other party was more at fault for the accident than you were. Here’s what your Chicago car accident lawyer wants you to know about the role witnesses may play in your case.
Witnesses Can Clarify Events to the Police
Calling the police after any accident, even if it’s a minor fender-bender, is always a good idea. They’ll collect evidence and witness statements that describe what happened leading up to, during, and after the accident. This information can strengthen your insurance claim if you need to file for damages with the other driver’s provider and may be used in court if you need to pursue a lawsuit against the other driver.
Witnesses Can Strengthen Your Insurance Claim
Even if you don’t go to court, witnesses can still help your case with the insurance companies involved. Their testimonial can strengthen your claim against the other driver for any damages not covered by your personal injury protection (PIP) policy. If their statements clearly indicate that the other driver bears the brunt of the responsibility for the injuries you suffered and any damage to your property, you may be able to get a larger settlement and reduce the risk of the insurance provider denying your claim outright.
Witnesses Can Testify About the Accident
Witnesses may also be called to testify in court about the accident. During their testimonials, they’ll share what they saw with the court, potentially strengthening your case. This can help clarify areas of confusion and may help you show fault more effectively.
If witnesses testify about the accident, they’ll be expected to answer all questions honestly and to the best of their ability. This is why choosing the appropriate witnesses is so important. Your Chicago car accident lawyer can choose witnesses who have the best chances of making your case as strong as possible.
Witnesses May Help Sway the Jury to Your Side
If your car accident case goes to a jury trial, witnesses can add a human element to the evidence presented. This can help sway the jury to your side if they’ve been unsure about who is at fault and who should pay for damages. It’s not uncommon for jurors to feel that witnesses are unbiased and they may be more likely to trust their testimony over yours or the other driver’s.
How to Find Witnesses
The best way to find reliable witnesses to testify on your behalf is to let your Chicago car accident lawyer oversee the process. They’ll be able to review the police report and any information you provide them with to determine who witnessed the accident. Once they have a list of witnesses, they’ll be able to screen each witness to find the best individuals to testify in your case.
Your attorney will be thorough and will do everything they can to choose witnesses who will strengthen your position.
Let Fabbrini Law Group Help
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, witnesses can make all the difference in your case. But you’ll still need a reliable Chicago car accident lawyer on your side to help you navigate the legal process, strengthen your insurance claim, and identify witnesses you can trust to benefit your case. At Fabbrini Law Group, our team has years of experience helping drivers like you get the compensation they deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.