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Navigating the Legal Process After a Personal Injury:

Robert Stahle • December 23, 2024

A Step-by-Step Guide

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Being injured in an accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re faced with medical bills, lost income, and physical pain. Adding the complexity of the legal process can make it even more stressful. However, understanding what to expect can help you feel more confident as you pursue justice. At Fitch & Stahle Law Office, we’re here to guide you through each step of the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Step 1: Seek Medical Attention

Your health should always come first. Immediately after an accident, seek medical attention—even if your injuries seem minor. Medical records serve as critical evidence, linking your injuries to the accident and documenting their severity.

Step 2: Consult an Attorney

Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney early in the process can make a significant difference in your case. Your attorney will:

  • Assess the viability of your claim.
  • Explain your legal rights and options.
  • Handle communications with insurance companies and opposing parties.

At Fitch & Stahle Law Office, we offer free consultations to help you understand your next steps without any financial risk.

Step 3: Investigation and Evidence Collection

Your attorney will begin gathering evidence to build a strong case. This may include:

  • Police or accident reports.
  • Photos and videos of the scene.
  • Witness statements.
  • Medical records and treatment plans.
  • Expert opinions, such as accident reconstructionists or medical professionals.

This phase is crucial for proving liability and the extent of your damages.

Step 4: Filing the Claim

Once the evidence is gathered, your attorney will file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. The claim will outline:

  • The details of the accident.
  • Proof of liability.
  • A demand for compensation, including both economic and non-economic damages.

Step 5: Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for less than they’re worth. Your attorney will negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Step 6: Filing a Lawsuit (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit. This involves:

  • Preparing and submitting a complaint to the court.
  • Serving the complaint to the defendant.

Filing a lawsuit doesn’t always mean going to trial; many cases are settled during the pre-trial phase.

Step 7: Discovery Process

During discovery, both sides exchange information and evidence related to the case. This may involve:

  • Depositions (sworn statements from parties and witnesses).
  • Interrogatories (written questions requiring written answers).
  • Requests for documents, such as medical records and financial statements.

Discovery helps both parties understand the strengths and weaknesses of the case.

Step 8: Mediation or Settlement Discussions

Before going to trial, the court may require mediation—a process where a neutral third party helps both sides reach a settlement. Mediation often results in an agreement, saving time and costs associated with a trial.

Step 9: Trial (If Necessary)

If a settlement cannot be reached, the case goes to trial. At trial, your attorney will present evidence, question witnesses, and argue your case before a judge or jury. While trials can be lengthy and uncertain, Fitch & Stahle Law Office has the experience and resources to advocate effectively for your rights.

Step 10: Collecting Your Compensation

If you win your case or reach a settlement, the final step is collecting your compensation. This may include:

  • Medical expenses.
  • Lost wages and future earning capacity.
  • Pain and suffering.
  • Property damage.

Your attorney will ensure that the payment process is handled efficiently and that you receive the full amount owed.

Why You Need Legal Support

The legal process can be complex and filled with pitfalls that may jeopardize your claim. An experienced personal injury attorney can:

  • Guide you through each step with confidence.
  • Protect you from common tactics used by insurance companies to minimize payouts.
  • Maximize your compensation by building a strong, well-documented case.

At Fitch & Stahle Law Office, we are committed to helping injured individuals navigate the legal process with clarity and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the legal process after a personal injury can be daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. With the right legal team by your side, you can focus on healing while we handle the complexities of your case.

If you’ve been injured in an accident, contact Fitch & Stahle Law Office today for a free consultation. Let us put our expertise to work for you and help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Fitch & Stahle Law Office: Your trusted advocates in personal injury law.

Injured in an Accident?

By Robert Stahle • September 5, 2025
Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer

Know Your Rights:

By Robert Stahle • August 21, 2025
What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident in Nebraska or Iowa Being hit by a drunk driver is traumatic, confusing, and often life-altering. In the aftermath, you may be overwhelmed by medical bills, vehicle damage, missed work, and pain that doesn’t go away. On top of all that, you’re probably wondering: What are my legal rights? At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm in South Sioux City, Nebraska , we help victims of drunk driving accidents across Nebraska and Iowa understand their rights, protect their claims, and pursue the compensation they deserve. This post explains what you’re entitled to after a DUI-related crash—and what steps you should take to protect yourself. Drunk Driving Victims Have the Right to Compensation If you were injured by someone driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you have the legal right to seek compensation through a personal injury claim . These claims are separate from any criminal charges the drunk driver may face. In a civil claim, the goal is not to punish the offender (that’s the court’s job)—it's to recover financial damages for the harm you’ve suffered , including: Emergency medical care Long-term treatment and rehabilitation Lost income and loss of earning potential Pain and suffering Mental and emotional distress Property damage Punitive damages (in extreme DUI cases) At Fitch & Stahle , our job is to make sure you get every dollar you’re entitled to—while the at-fault party is held accountable for their reckless actions. Nebraska and Iowa Laws That Protect Drunk Driving Victims Every state handles DUI-related personal injury claims differently. Because Fitch & Stahle Law Firm is licensed in both Nebraska and Iowa , we’re uniquely qualified to navigate the laws in both jurisdictions. Here are some key legal protections available in each state: Nebraska: Dram Shop Liability : If a bar, restaurant, or alcohol-serving establishment over-served the intoxicated driver, you may be able to sue that establishment under Nebraska’s dram shop law. Comparative Negligence Rule : Nebraska follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages if you were less than 50% at fault for the accident. Statute of Limitations : You generally have four years to file a personal injury claim in Nebraska, but acting sooner improves your chances. Iowa: Dram Shop Law : Iowa’s dram shop law also allows claims against alcohol vendors who sell to an intoxicated person that causes an accident. These claims have special notice requirements. Modified Comparative Fault : You can recover damages in Iowa as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. Statute of Limitations : In Iowa, you typically have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. Understanding which laws apply—and how to use them to your advantage—requires a legal team with experience in both states. That’s why Fitch & Stahle Law Firm is the trusted choice in Siouxland . What to Do Immediately After a Drunk Driving Crash The steps you take right after a crash can make or break your case. Here's what you should do: ✅ Call 911 and get medical help Always prioritize safety. Even if you feel okay, some injuries (like brain trauma or internal bleeding) don’t show symptoms right away. ✅ Document everything Take photos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, your injuries, skid marks, and road signs. Get names and contact info of witnesses. ✅ Get the police report A police report stating the other driver was intoxicated is critical to your claim. Ask the responding officer for details about any breathalyzer or field sobriety tests. ✅ Avoid talking to insurance companies alone Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but they are trained to protect the company—not you. Don’t give recorded statements or accept offers without legal guidance. ✅ Contact a personal injury lawyer The sooner you speak to a lawyer, the better. At Fitch & Stahle , we offer free consultations and handle every step of your claim—from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers and going to court if needed. Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Crashes Drunk driving accidents often involve high speeds, poor judgment, and failure to brake—all of which increase the severity of injuries. We commonly represent clients suffering from: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) Spinal cord injuries and paralysis Broken bones and fractures Internal bleeding and organ damage Facial disfigurement and scarring Emotional trauma and PTSD These aren’t just short-term problems. They can impact your career, relationships, and overall quality of life for years to come. That’s why it’s so important to have an attorney who fights for the long-term value of your claim —not just a quick settlement. Why Choose Fitch & Stahle Law Firm? Here’s what makes us different: ✅ We’re local —Based in South Sioux City and serving all of Siouxland ✅ We’re licensed in Nebraska and Iowa ✅ We’ve handled hundreds of personal injury claims ✅ You pay nothing unless we win ✅ We offer compassionate, one-on-one attention When you hire Fitch & Stahle , you're not just another case file—you’re a neighbor, and we take your recovery personally. Get the Legal Support You Deserve Today Drunk driving is a serious offense with serious consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI crash in South Sioux City, Sioux City , or anywhere in the Tri-State area , don’t wait to assert your rights. 📍 Visit our office in South Sioux City, NE 📞 Call us at 402-494-3012 💻 Schedule your free consultation at fitch-stahlelaw.com Let us take the legal burden off your shoulders while you focus on healing. Fitch & Stahle Law Firm is here to fight for you.