What Happens After You File a Car Accident Lawsuit in California?

What actually happens after you file a car accident lawsuit? Many people think once a lawsuit is filed, the process is straightforward. In reality, a car accident lawsuit in California involves several important steps that can affect how quickly and fairly your case is resolved. 

Knowing what to expect can give you a clear roadmap and help you make informed decisions along the way. And when you’re dealing with insurance companies that may try to minimize your claim, having strong legal support ensures you’re not facing this process alone.

Car Accident Lawsuit Process in California

After being served, the defendant has a limited time, usually 30 days, to respond. They can file an answer admitting or denying the claims, or they may submit motions attempting to dismiss parts of the case. This step sets the stage for the next phase, the discovery process, where both sides begin to gather evidence.

The discovery process is often the longest and most detailed stage of a car accident lawsuit. Both parties exchange information to build their cases. This can include written discovery such as questions or requests for documents, depositions (sworn testimonies), and medical examinations. Discovery helps clarify the strengths and weaknesses of each side’s arguments and often influences settlement discussions.

Fortunately, most car accident cases settle before trial. Throughout the litigation process, your attorney may engage in settlement negotiations with the other party or their insurance company. Courts often require mediation to encourage resolution without the need for a trial. Settlement offers can occur at any stage, but they usually become more concrete after discovery when both sides fully understand the evidence.

What Happens if You Can’t Reach a Settlement?

If settlement is not possible, the case moves toward trial. However, before that, either side may file pre-trial motions, such as motions to exclude evidence or limit testimony. These motions shape what will be presented in court. During trial, both parties present evidence, call witnesses, and make legal arguments.

A judge or jury then decides who is at fault and how much compensation is owed. The trial can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the case. Even after a verdict, there may be additional steps. The losing party can file post-trial motions or appeal the decision. While not every case involves an appeal, it is a possibility in the car accident litigation process. Throughout the lawsuit, your attorney will also handle interactions with insurance companies.

Insurance companies often try to settle for less than what you’re owed. They may pressure you to accept a quick payout or present a lowball offer in hopes you’ll take it before understanding the full extent of your injuries and future expenses. Having legal guidance ensures your rights are protected and that you pursue the fair compensation you truly deserve for your losses.

Do You Need a Car Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles?

Filing car accident lawsuits in California can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve sustained injuries and have medical bills piling up. But understanding the steps in the process can help reduce uncertainty. From filing the complaint, settlement negotiations, and possibly trial, each stage is designed to ensure a fair outcome. At Yepremyan Law Firm, our team is dedicated to assisting clients through every step of the process, keeping you informed and supported throughout your legal journey. 

If you’re trying to figure out how to file a lawsuit after a car accident, contact our North Hollywood injury law firm to book your appointment. Since 1998, our firm has helped thousands of clients recover millions of dollars. With 24/7 support, our car accident lawyer in North Hollywood offers free case evaluations to ensure injured victims receive the guidance they need during challenging times.

Yepremyan Law Firm works on a contingency basis for all personal injury matters. This means you pay nothing unless your case has been settled or won. This fee structure allows anyone, regardless of financial situation, to pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal costs. Reach out to our dedicated accident injury attorney in North Hollywood today and take the first step toward recovery and fair compensation.

*No Legal Advice Intended. This website includes general information about legal issues and developments in the law. These materials have been prepared for general informational purposes only and are not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for legal advice pertaining to any particular legal matter. Use of and access to this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader, user, or browser and Yepremyan Law Firm and any of its attorneys, employees, or associates.