22 jun
Most personal injury cases settle before trial. But if your case needs to go the distance, we’re ready. Attorney Rachel Frazier Johnson has spent over 25 yearsinside and outside the courtroom — and that experience matters.
Here’s what trial may involve:
- Filing a complaint with the appropriate court
- Discovery — exchanging evidence and depositions
- Pretrial motions (such as summary judgment challenges)
- Mediation or settlement conferences
- Jury trial, where we present evidence and expert testimony
- Verdict and judgment collection
The Importance of Expert Witnesses
In serious injury and wrongful death claims, expert witnesses can make the difference between a small settlement and full compensation.
We regularly work with:
- Accident reconstruction experts to show exactly how the incident occurred
- Medical experts who explain your injuries and long-term care needs
- Economic experts to calculate lost income, future expenses, and life care plans
- Safety engineers who testify about failed inspections or hazardous conditions
Their testimony strengthens your case — and helps insurance companies understand what’s at stake.
When Should I File a Lawsuit Instead of Accepting a Settlement?
We usually try to settle fairly with the insurance company first. But sometimes, going to court is the right move. We recommend filing a lawsuit when:
- Liability is being unfairly disputed
- Your damages are significant, and offers are low
- The insurer is delaying or acting in bad faith
- You’ve suffered permanent injuries or death in the family
- You want to send a message — that your suffering matters
We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of every option so you feel empowered, not pressured.
Common Defense Tactics Used in Personal Injury Lawsuits
Insurance defense lawyers are trained to protect profits, not people. In nearly every serious injury case, we see the same defense playbook:
- Blame the victim: “You were texting,” “You were wearing the wrong shoes,” “You weren’t paying attention.”
- Minimize the injury: They may argue your injuries aren’t as bad as you claim — or say they existed before the accident.
- Discredit your timeline: Any delay in treatment, documentation, or reporting can be twisted into “proof” that you weren’t seriously hurt.
- Use surveillance: In some cases, insurers monitor claimants to look for any activity that contradicts their reported injuries.
An experienced injury lawyer can anticipate and counter these tactics.
We’re Not a Settlement Mill. We’re a People-First Law Firm.
At Rachel Frazier Johnson Law, we take pride in giving every client the care and attention they deserve. We prepare every case as if trial is inevitable — because that’s how you get the best possible outcome.
We don’t rush to settle. We don’t treat you like a number. And we don’t disappear once your case gets tough.
- You’ll have direct access to your attorney
- You’ll get regular updates and clear answers
- Your injuries, story, and future will always be central to our work
This isn’t just a job to us. It’s a calling — and we’re honored to serve you.