Factors That Negatively Impact Your Case
Posted Thursday, July 17, 2014 by Chris Thayer
As you discuss your case with your Renton personal injury attorney, he or she will ask you a variety of questions. One area that he or she might concentrate is any potential weaknesses to your case. Here are a few factors that might impact the value of your case in a negative manner.
Consumption of AlcoholIf any consumption of alcohol is relevant to the question of liability, your Renton personal injury attorney may warn that this information can be significantly damaging to your case. For example, if you were injured in a motor vehicle accident after you consumed alcohol, this factor may completely eliminate your chance to receive a favorable settlement or verdict. In some cases, a Renton personal injury attorney can help prevent this issue from becoming fatal. He or she may help minimize this issue by:
• Calling witnesses to testify that your alcohol consumption was only minimal;
• Presenting blood or breath tests that show that your blood alcohol content was below the legal limit; and
• Filing a motion with the court to prevent mention of any alcohol consumption if it has no relevance to the accident.
Other LawsuitsIf you have filed other claims or lawsuits, your Renton personal injury lawyer may warn that this information may be used against you to paint you as a serial plaintiff. The defense attorney usually learns about this information through interrogatories. Your lawyer may be able to minimize the damage of this issue by showing that the claims are referencing different injuries and areas of your body. Additionally, your attorney may be able to file a motion to prevent mention of prior claims if mentioning them would be more prejudicial than probative.
Criminal Record Sometimes, your own criminal record can be revealed during a trial. If you have been convicted of a crime that involves dishonesty, the jury may have a hard time believing you. Sometimes this information can be avoided if it has no bearing on your honesty or if it occurred a long time ago.
If you would like to learn more about factors that can affect the value of your claim, contact Renton personal injury lawyer Chris Thayer at (206) 340-2008.