Car Accident Trials in Fresno

Most civil claims filed over car crash injuries end with the parties involved agreeing to a private settlement, which usually entails an insurance company consenting to pay a scheduled amount of money to cover crash-related losses. Sometimes, out-of-court settlement negotiations do not proceed smoothly, in which case it may become necessary for the injured party to advance their case to a civil courtroom.

Car accident trials in Fresno are not something you should be wary of, but they are very different from informal settlement talks and from other court proceedings. Fortunately, help is available from Valero Law Group. Each of our dedicated car accident attorneys has years of experience in litigating and getting people like you paid what they deserve. If you need help going to trial, call us today.

When Do Car Accident Claims Go to Trial?

There are many reasons why Fresno auto collision claims commonly end with private settlement agreements rather than court trials. This is usually because settling is generally faster, cheaper, and more convenient for everyone involved. However, there is a chance that settling a case out of court may lead to an injured person getting less than the maximum compensation amount a court may have awarded them. For extremely serious injuries, seeking a formal ruling from a civil judge or jury, which may include punitive damages, is best.

Often, car accident cases proceed to trial because the parties involved cannot agree on fair compensation. Unfortunately, insurance companies often try to minimize their own financial liability for a wreck by misleading, pressuring, or bending state law to force a crash victim to accept an undervalued settlement offer. Crash victims can contact Valero Law Group and let our attorneys communicate with the insurance companies.

The Basics of Civil Court Proceedings

Vehicle wreck trials in Fresno work similarly to criminal trials. The court gives both sides opportunities to make opening and closing statements, present evidence and testimony in support of their case, and cross-examine evidence and testimony presented by the opposing side. Unlike criminal cases, the standard of proof for a civil trial is based on a preponderance of evidence, meaning the plaintiff must prove that the at-fault party’s negligent act directly caused their injuries to achieve a verdict in their favor.

It is still possible to settle claims out of court after trial proceedings begin. Once all trial proceedings are complete and the judge or jury overseeing the case renders a legally binding final verdict, no settlement claims are possible.

Contact a Fresno Attorney Today for Guidance Throughout a Car Crash Trial

Advocating for your best interests can be difficult when negotiating with a representative of a private insurance company. However, that experience can be more intimidating if you attempt to present your case before a civil judge or jury on your own.

Working with a seasoned lawyer will make a difference in the effectiveness of car accident trials in Fresno. Call Valero Law Group today to learn more.