Car accident depositions are usually taken at the office of an insurance adjuster, but sometimes they can be taken at the plaintiff’s attorney’s office. The deposition is a sworn statement under oath where you will be questioned about the accident, your background and any other information that might be pertinent to the case.
The depositions can be very stressful and intimidating, but if you have an injury lawyer in Cornwall on your side, they can help prepare you for this vital step in the process. If you are being deposed in a car accident lawsuit, here’s what you can expect:
• The date and time of the accident.
• Where were you at the time of the accident?
• How much you had to drink before getting behind the wheel?
• Whether you were on your cell phone or texting while driving at the time of the accident?
• Did you have any history with the other driver?
• What caused the accident? Was it a distracted driver, a defective part or something else entirely?
• What injuries did you sustain? Were any of these injuries permanent?
Lawyers can help you prepare for your deposition by interviewing you beforehand and asking some questions that may seem odd but are intended to gauge your honesty and whether there are any inconsistencies in your story or anything else that could prove helpful at trial.
Why do Depositions Take Place?
This process aims to get both sides to exchange information so the parties know what evidence each has, what arguments they can make, and how much time it will take to prepare for trial. In addition, depositions are often used to get out essential facts about your case before the trial begins.
Depositions allow an injury lawyer to test their theories on witnesses before going to court and making costly mistakes that could cost them their case. A deposition is also an opportunity for attorneys to see how prepared their opponent is and whether they might have any weak points in their lawsuit that can be attacked later during the trial. A lawyers can ensure that everything you say is consistent with what happened at the moment of the car accident and keep track of how your symptoms change over time.
Know Your Rights
You have the right to remain silent and not answer any questions that may incriminate you. This doesn’t apply only if several people are involved in an accident, and someone else gives testimony against you. In this instance, it’s better to tell your side of the story rather than let someone else speak on your behalf and possibly get the facts wrong. Your lawyer might even catch some signs you hadn’t realized yourself or noticed before, helping them work out the next steps.