Auto Accident Attorney Legal Process and Litigation 2

Question 1

What is an 'expert witness' in auto accident litigation and what types are commonly used?

Accepted Answer

A qualified specialist whose testimony helps the jury understand technical issues; accident reconstructionists and medical experts are common

Answer

Any eyewitness to the accident who has a college degree

Answer

A police officer who investigated the scene

Answer

A lawyer who testifies about legal standards in the case

Question 2

What is a 'default judgment' in an auto accident lawsuit?

Accepted Answer

A judgment entered against a defendant who fails to respond to the lawsuit within the required time

Answer

A judgment entered when both parties agree on the facts

Answer

A ruling that the plaintiff automatically wins without presenting evidence

Answer

A court order reducing the plaintiff's damages by 50%

Question 3

What is a 'contingency fee' arrangement common in auto accident cases?

Accepted Answer

The attorney is paid a percentage of the recovery only if the case is won; no upfront fees

Answer

The client pays a flat fee regardless of outcome

Answer

The attorney charges hourly rates billed monthly

Answer

The client prepays the attorney for estimated future hours

Question 4

What is 'voir dire' in an auto accident jury trial?

Accepted Answer

The jury selection process where attorneys question potential jurors to identify bias

Answer

The opening statement by attorneys at the start of trial

Answer

The judge's instructions to the jury about the law

Answer

The process of presenting physical evidence to the jury

Question 5

What is an 'interrogatory' in auto accident litigation?

Accepted Answer

Written questions submitted to the opposing party that must be answered under oath

Answer

Oral questions asked during trial cross-examination

Answer

Questions sent to expert witnesses before deposition

Answer

A court questionnaire about case status submitted to the judge

Question 6

What is the role of an 'accident reconstruction expert' in auto accident litigation?

Accepted Answer

To analyze physical evidence to determine how the accident occurred, vehicle speeds, and point of impact

Answer

To repair damaged vehicles for insurance appraisal

Answer

To review medical records and determine injury causation

Answer

To audit insurance policy terms and calculate coverage limits