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What Happens After a Car Accident Deposition?
Robert Stahle • July 31, 2024
When you become injured in an auto accident
, you have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault party. However, these incidents can sometimes be complicated, making settlements more challenging. This is where a deposition comes in. Read on to learn about car accident depositions and what happens afterward.
What is a Deposition?
In a deposition, both parties involved in the accident gather crucial information to discover more about the case. In this process, your lawyer will collect and preserve testimonies from a witness, also called a deponent, to prepare for further legal proceedings. There are three types of deposition, including:
- Written Deposition - This involves providing deponents questionnaires they can answer freely within a given timeframe. While a written deposition is efficient, it may lack more detailed answers due to the absence of in-person questioning.
- Oral Deposition - An oral deposition involves questioning by legal representatives, usually in an attorney’s office. While it can be tricky to conduct due to scheduling logistics, this method allows both parties to discover crucial details about the case through observation and follow-up questions .
- Video Deposition - This combines the elements of written and oral depositions, where the deponent's testimonies are captured on video. It allows easy playback for the jury even when the witness isn’t present.
Now that you know the types of depositions, you might wonder what happens afterward. Here’s what to expect:
- Transcript Preparation: After the deposition, a court reporter will prepare a transcript of all the testimonies, providing both parties with a detailed account of different witness perspectives.
- Transcript Review: Once the transcripts have been provided, your lawyer will review them to identify any errors or conflicting information. If needed, another deposition may be scheduled to ensure accuracy.
- Deposition Evaluation and Discussion: When your lawyer has finished reviewing and correcting any inaccurate details on the transcripts, they will evaluate them and discuss the best plan of action with you.
- Medical Examination Request: This may be requested following the deposition to ensure all claims are valid in relation to the extent of your injuries. Preparing for this with your attorney is essential to avoid being a victim of tactics that could impact your case negatively.
- Settlement or Trial: Each car accident case is different. So, the deposition and negotiation with the other party will determine whether your case will end with a settlement or a trial.
Get in Touch With a Trusted Attorney
Car accident depositions can help determine the next process for your legal case. So, a reputable lawyer is essential to ensure sound decision-making and higher chances of success. Contact Fitch & Stahle Law Office for reliable legal representation in IAand NE.
A car accident can change your life in a matter of seconds. One moment you’re commuting or running errands, and the next, you’re facing a wrecked vehicle, physical pain, and a growing stack of medical bills. It’s stressful, overwhelming, and often confusing—especially when you’re not sure what to do next. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we help car accident victims in South Sioux City , Sioux City , and across Nebraska and Iowa understand their rights and recover the compensation they deserve. In this post, we’ll walk you through the critical steps to take after a crash—and how to protect your health, finances, and legal claim. Step 1: Prioritize Your Safety and Health Immediately after a crash, your safety comes first. If possible: Move your vehicle out of traffic Check yourself and others for injuries Call 911 for medical help and law enforcement Even if you don’t feel seriously hurt, get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Many injuries—like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma—don’t show symptoms right away. A prompt medical exam not only protects your health, it also documents your injuries for your insurance claim. Step 2: Call the Police and File an Accident Report In both Nebraska and Iowa , it’s important to report any crash involving: Injury or death Property damage over $1,000 A hit-and-run or uninsured driver The responding officer will create a police report , which includes key facts like: Date, time, and location of the accident Statements from drivers and witnesses Diagrams or photos of the scene Initial assessment of fault This report becomes vital evidence in your personal injury claim. Be honest and factual—but avoid admitting fault or guessing what happened. Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You Can) If you are physically able and it’s safe to do so, collect the following: Photos of vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, and surroundings Driver’s license, insurance, and contact info of all involved Contact info for witnesses Notes about the weather, road conditions, and what you recall If you’re unable to collect this yourself, Fitch & Stahle Law Firm may be able to retrieve surveillance footage, witness statements, or crash data later—but the more you gather early, the better. Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company Most policies require you to notify your insurer after a crash. However, you do not need to give a recorded statement , especially before speaking to a lawyer. Stick to the basics: Where and when the crash happened Who was involved That you’re seeking medical treatment Avoid discussing fault, injuries, or potential settlement values. Insurance companies often use early statements to downplay your claim later. Step 5: Call a Car Accident Lawyer—Before You Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance The at-fault driver’s insurance company may reach out soon after the crash. They might offer a quick settlement or ask for a recorded interview. Don’t be fooled— their goal is to protect their bottom line, not your recovery . When you call Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we: Handle all communication with insurance companies Protect you from saying something that hurts your case Calculate the real value of your damages Make sure you aren’t pressured into a lowball settlement We offer free consultations and don’t charge legal fees unless we win your case. Step 6: Keep Track of Everything Start a folder or digital log for your car accident claim. Include: Medical bills and records Receipts for prescriptions or medical equipment Notes from doctor visits Pay stubs showing missed work A journal of your pain levels, emotional struggles, or daily challenges This documentation helps prove pain and suffering , lost income , and the long-term impact of your injury. What Compensation Can You Recover? Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation for: Emergency room care and medical treatment Physical therapy and future healthcare needs Vehicle repairs or total loss Lost wages or reduced earning capacity Pain and suffering Emotional distress Permanent disability or disfigurement If the at-fault driver was reckless—such as driving drunk or texting behind the wheel—you may also qualify for punitive damages . At Fitch & Stahle , we fight for the maximum compensation available under Nebraska or Iowa law. How Long Do I Have to File a Claim? The legal deadline to file a car accident lawsuit (called the statute of limitations ) is: 4 years in Nebraska 2 years in Iowa However, it’s best to act early. Delays in filing can lead to lost evidence, unclear medical records, and a weaker case overall. Why Choose Fitch & Stahle Law Firm? We’ve spent years helping injured drivers in the Siouxland region get justice after devastating car accidents. Here’s why clients trust us: ✅ Local Experience : Based in South Sioux City , we know the roads, courts, and insurers in both Nebraska and Iowa. ✅ Full-Service Representation : From crash investigation to courtroom litigation, we handle every step. ✅ Licensed in NE & IA : Whether your accident happened on I-29, Highway 77, or in town, we’ve got you covered. ✅ No Upfront Fees : You pay nothing unless we win your case. Don’t Go Through This Alone—We’re Here to Help If you were injured in a car accident in South Sioux City , Sioux City , or anywhere in Northeast Nebraska or Northwest Iowa , don’t wait to protect your rights. The sooner you act, the stronger your claim. 📞 Call us now at 402-494-3012 🌐 Schedule your free consultation at fitch-stahlelaw.com 📍 Visit us at our South Sioux City office At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we fight for car accident victims every day—and we’re ready to fight for you.