April 21st, 2025

After a car accident, you might be asked to give a deposition. This is a sworn statement where attorneys ask questions about what happened, your injuries, and other details. It’s a key part of the legal process, but it can feel intimidating if you’ve never given one before. Understanding what to expect can make answering questions and staying focused easier.

Learn how to prepare for a deposition, what questions you might face, and how an experienced California car accident attorney can help you give confident and accurate testimony.

Understanding the Purpose of Your Deposition

If you are involved in a car accident case that’s heading to trial, one of the steps you may go through is a deposition. This is a question-and-answer session where attorneys from both sides gather information about what happened, how you were injured, and any other details that could affect the case.

It takes place under oath, usually in a lawyer’s office, with a court reporter recording everything you say. This testimony becomes part of the official case record and can be used during settlement negotiations or at trial.

Since attorneys will examine your answers closely, preparation helps you stay focused and avoid saying something that could hurt your case. What you say in a deposition can impact compensation offers or how your case is argued in court.

Common Questions to Expect in Accident Depositions

Attorneys use depositions to gather details about the accident and how it has affected your life. A qualified legal team can help you prep for the following types of questions regarding accident details, your injuries, and medical treatment, and how they have affected your life:

  • “Can you describe how the crash happened?” Attorneys ask this to understand your version of events and compare it with police reports, witness statements, and other evidence. Stick to what you remember and avoid speculating.
  • “What injuries did you sustain?” This helps attorneys assess the severity of harm and how it relates to the accident. Be specific about the injuries you were diagnosed with rather than just describing pain or discomfort.
  • “What treatment have you received?” Legal teams want to know about hospital visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and medications. Share information documented in your medical records to ensure they reflect the full extent of your injuries and the care you’ve received.
  • “Did you have any prior injuries or health issues?” Attorneys ask this to determine whether the accident caused new injuries or worsened an existing condition. Be honest, since they will review your medical history, but explain any changes you’ve experienced since the crash.
  • “How have your injuries affected your daily life?” Attorneys need to understand any physical limitations or challenges you now face. Explain how your ability to work, take care of responsibilities, or enjoy hobbies has changed since the accident. Providing specific examples can help show the impact.

Knowing what to expect is just the first step. Proper preparation can help you answer questions concisely and avoid missteps that could affect your case.

Steps To Prepare for a Car Accident Deposition

There are several ways to prepare for your deposition so you feel comfortable answering questions and handling the process. Here are some important things to go over with your attorney:

1. Review Your Case Details

Before your deposition, review all documents related to the accident, including:

  • Police reports to understand how the crash was documented and whether any citations were issued.
  • Medical records to refresh your memory on your injuries, treatments, and doctor recommendations.
  • Insurance claims to stay consistent with any statements you previously provided.
  • Photos and videos of the accident scene to help recall details about road conditions, vehicle damage, and surroundings.
  • Witness statements so you are aware of what others have said and how it compares to your account.

Being familiar with these details will help you recall events accurately and provide consistent answers.

2. Rehearse Questions With Your Attorney

Rehearsing with your attorney in a mock interview helps you get comfortable with the deposition process. They will help you go over the following:

  • The deposition format so you know what to expect, including how attorneys ask questions and when to pause for objections.
  • Practicing direct answers to avoid giving unnecessary details or guessing when you don’t know something.
  • Handling follow-up questions so you stay consistent and don’t feel pressured into changing your response.

Practicing with your attorney helps you stay calm under pressure so you don’t rush answers or become flustered if a question is unexpected.

3. Handling Attorney Tactics

Defense attorneys may use tactics to challenge your testimony, such as asking vague questions, downplaying your injuries, or suggesting you were at fault.  Knowing proper deposition etiquette helps you stay in control.

  • Wait to hear and understand the entire question to avoid answering too quickly or assuming what the attorney is asking.
  • Answer truthfully but concisely by sticking to the facts without offering extra details that could be misinterpreted.
  • Avoid speculation if you don’t know an answer; guessing can weaken your credibility.
  • Request clarification if a question is unclear instead of assuming what is meant.
  • Stay professional and composed even if questions feel frustrating or unfair.

Following these guidelines helps you give reliable testimony without falling into common traps.

Get Experienced Legal Assistance for Your Car Accident Case

Depositions are a critical part of any personal injury case. Having experienced legal representation on your side ensures you’re well-prepared and protected throughout the process.

Berg Injury Lawyers has an experienced team of attorneys, paralegals, and support staff to assist you throughout your case and help you feel confident and ready to testify.

Get the preparation you need to give an effective deposition. Contact us today for a free consultation, during which we can discuss your situation and guide you through the next steps.