Is it a requirement that you testify in a car accident case? Atlanta car accident lawyers help crash victims get compensation for their injuries. Fortunately, though, you can get damages without going to trial. This is because a significant percentage of accident claims are resolved through settlements. But suppose your claim gets to court. Then, the issue of whether or not you must testify arises.
Many car crash victims may have never stood in a court before. However, this wouldn’t be an issue if you have the best Atlanta car accident lawyers. Our attorneys will know whether you have to testify in your accident claim. Then, if you must, they can prepare you to get the best results from your testimony.
Witness Testimony Is Crucial in Car Accident Claims
The success of any car crash claim depends on the available evidence. The relevant evidence must support your version of the collision’s events. Notably, eyewitness testimony here could be from you or other parties. But, of course, you’re an automatic eyewitness from the crash.
This will be the case, except your physical state was such that your testimony would be unreliable. Whatever the case, witnesses may have to take the stand at some point during a trial. If some other type of evidence corroborates a witness’s claim, it will increase your chances of success.
Must I Testify in My Atlanta Car Accident Case?
No. Georgia law doesn’t say you must testify in your case. Notably, though, a subpoena can compel you to testify in your case. A subpoena is a court order mandating the production of some evidence. The relevant evidence here could be your testimony. If you disobey a summons, you may face contempt of court charges.
Every other possibility of testifying in your car accident claim largely depends on you. That is, you can choose whether or not to testify. However, it’ll be best to make this decision with your car accident lawyer’s input. If your lawyer thinks it wise to testify, then it’s most likely a great move. But, if they reject the idea, it’ll be best to stay put.
Should I Testify in My Car Accident Case?
Deciding whether not to testify should be after considering the pros and cons. Firstly, your testimony will give the jury your account of the accident. Furthermore, it can help establish the extent of your injuries. A doctor’s testimony may be insufficient here. Instead, testifying will help the jury see how much you’re suffering because of the accident.
In addition, your lawyer may need your testimony when introducing certain pieces of evidence. However, it’s also noteworthy that testifying opens you up to cross-examination. So, the defendant’s attorney will try poking holes in your story.
If they can discredit your testimony, then you’d have worsened your case. Therefore, it’ll be best to testify only if you’re convinced of your version of the events. You must also be sure that you can hold your own under cross-examination.
How to Prepare When Testifying in Court
Suppose you have to testify in court; it’ll be best to prepare appropriately. Moreover, the success of your compensation claim may depend on your testimony. So, any mistakes may kill the possibility of getting any compensation.
Tips for Successful Car Accident Testimonies
The tips below can help you ace your court testimony:
- Know the facts of your accident.
- Understand every question before answering; you can ask for clarification when confused.
- Answer all questions clearly and loudly
- Don’t offer answers to questions that were never asked
- Avoid all signs of hostility. You need the jury to love you.
- Don’t guess or speculate. Instead, if you don’t have the answer to a question, say so.
- Never speak badly about the other party or their attorney.
Finally, don’t lie to an opposing attorney. This is because lawyers often know the answers to their questions. So, they can easily spot a lie which can then hurt your case.
Atlanta’s Best Car Accident Lawyers Want to Help You!
Have you been in an Atlanta car accident? Do you think you aren’t responsible for the collision? If you’re right, then the other party will bear the accident’s losses. First, however, you’ll need the best car accident lawyers. At The Weinstein Firm, we can get you the maximum settlement for your accident claim.
If it gets to court, we can also get you a favorable judgment. If you need to testify, our attorneys can prepare you to ace your testimony. All these are possible because of our decades of legal experience and excellent track record. So, it’ll be best to call us today for a FREE consultation.
