Interrogatories In A Personal Injury Lawsuit English

Interrogatories in a Personal Injury Lawsuit

Interrogatories are written questions sent to another party in the case, typically an opposing party to be answered under oath. They are one of the major discovery tools and, are often one of the first used after a personal injury suit is commenced. Interrogatories can be a fast and relatively inexpensive way to for each side to begin obtaining information about the other side’s case. For example, in a car accident case, the auto accident attorney for the injured party may send interrogatories to the attorney for the insurance company and/or responsible driver.

In Florida, you can only ask 30 interrogatory questions unless the court approves more. You must answer them in writing, usually within 30 days or so. If you are filing a lawsuit, interrogatories are very important for making your case.

You must answer interrogatories “under oath.” This means you are swearing the answers are true. If you lie on purpose, you may have to pay a fine or go to jail. In a car accident, both sides may have different ideas of what caused the accident. Car accident interrogatories can ask about what caused the accident – like speeding, texting, or drug/alcohol use. Interrogatories let you hear the other side’s story, so you can better prepare your case for the court.

Are Interrogatories Different from Depositions?

Yes. In some cases, one or both sides may also want to take depositions, which, unlike written interrogatories, are in-person interviews. Depositions usually take place in attorneys’ offices. The attorneys ask questions about facts and events related to the accident. You must swear to tell the truth. A court reporter records everything word-forword and gives both sides a copy of the transcript. In some cases, the depositions are videotaped. Depositions are used as evidence in court.

What Are Some Typical Questions in Personal Injury Interrogatories?

The Defendant’s Interrogatories to the Plaintiff can include questions like these:

  • Please identify all medical treatment, surgeries, and procedures you have had in the ten years before the accident.
  • Please state the amount of lost wages you are claiming.
  • Please provide a list with the full name, address, and telephone number of all health care providers who have treated you for the injuries you are claiming in this lawsuit.
  • Please list all medications, including prescription or over-the-counter medicines, naturopathic or homeopathic substances, or herbal remedies you were taking at the time of the accident.
  • Please identify all injuries you claim were the result of the accident that is the subject of this lawsuit.
  • Please list all full-time and part-time jobs you have had for 30 days or longer, from the age of 18 to the present time.

Do you have questions about interrogatories? Do you need help with a car accident insurance claim or lawsuit? Let the personal injury attorneys at Suarez & Montero review the circumstances of your case and discuss your legal options. Our attorneys are ready to provide proven legal representation in pursuing your claim and stand ready to protect your rights.

Contact us today at 786 Lawyers for a free consultation!