When you’re injured in a car crash, Omaha Accident Lawyers use every available legal tool to build a strong, evidence-based case. One of the most effective — yet often overlooked — tools is the Request for Admission (RFA). This legal mechanism helps confirm facts, prove negligence, and simplify courtroom disputes, making it easier to secure the compensation you deserve.
In this guide, we’ll break down how Nebraska accident attorneys strategically use Requests for Admission to prove liability, strengthen claims, and streamline the path toward justice for injured clients.
A Request for Admission, commonly known as an RFA, is part of the discovery process in Nebraska civil lawsuits. During discovery, both sides exchange information to prepare for trial. RFAs specifically consist of written statements that one party asks the other to admit or deny.
For example, a plaintiff’s attorney may ask the defendant to admit that:
They were driving above the speed limit at the time of the crash
They failed to yield at a stoplight
They were distracted by a mobile device
They were cited by police following the collision
If the defendant admits these facts, those admissions become legally binding and can be presented in court as evidence.
In Nebraska, RFAs are governed by Nebraska Court Rule § 6-334, which allows attorneys to clarify facts and narrow down contested issues before trial.
1. Establishing Fault and Liability
Determining fault is one of the most important — and often the most contested — parts of a car accident case. Omaha car accident lawyers use RFAs to confirm key details that directly establish liability.
For instance, if a defendant admits they ran a red light or were speeding, those admissions can eliminate the need for lengthy witness testimony or expert analysis. This helps lawyers present a clear, straightforward argument to the court or insurance company.
2. Simplifying the Trial Process
Requests for Admission can significantly reduce trial complexity. By confirming facts before entering the courtroom, attorneys and judges can focus on the actual points of dispute — such as the extent of injuries or the amount of damages.
This saves clients time and money, and often encourages earlier settlement discussions.
3. Proving Negligence
Most car accident cases rely on proving negligence, which requires establishing four elements:
The defendant owed a duty of care (e.g., to drive safely)
The defendant breached that duty
The breach directly caused the injury
The plaintiff suffered damages
RFAs can provide clear admissions that address these elements directly — especially breach and causation. This creates a solid foundation for proving negligence in court.
4. Strengthening Insurance Negotiations
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts by disputing liability or undervaluing claims. However, when Omaha accident lawyers obtain binding admissions from the other party, insurers lose leverage.
If the defendant admits to texting while driving, for example, the insurance company is far less likely to challenge responsibility or delay fair settlement offers.
Imagine a driver in Omaha rear-ends another car stopped at a red light. The at-fault driver initially claims the victim “stopped too suddenly.”
However, during discovery, the plaintiff’s lawyer issues an RFA asking the defendant to admit they were adjusting their GPS at the time of the crash. Once admitted, that statement proves distraction and negligence, leading to a swift settlement — without a lengthy trial.
This scenario shows how one well-crafted admission can turn a contested case into a clear victory.
Reducing Disputes and Delays
According to the Nebraska Judicial Branch, the discovery process is designed to “simplify and clarify” issues before trial. RFAs help achieve that by narrowing disagreements and promoting efficiency.
When both parties agree on certain facts, the court can focus on resolving the core legal issues — such as damages and liability percentages.
Encouraging Fair Settlements
Once Requests for Admission expose strong evidence of fault, the opposing side often realizes trial may not work in their favor. This transparency can push cases toward early settlements, sparing clients months of stress and expense.
Protecting Client Interests
Under Nebraska Court Rule § 6-334, if the opposing party fails to respond to an RFA within 30 days, the statements are automatically considered admitted. This protects clients from delay tactics and ensures their attorney maintains control of the case narrative.
“It’s just legal paperwork.”
In reality, RFAs are powerful tools that can determine whether a case settles quickly or proceeds to trial.
“Admissions can’t be used as real evidence.”
False. Once admitted, these statements carry the same weight as testimony given in court.
“Only complex cases use them.”
Even minor car accident claims benefit from RFAs. They’re a standard and effective part of most Nebraska personal injury cases.
Requests for Admission are part of a larger discovery toolkit. To fully uncover the truth, Omaha car accident attorneys often use several additional methods:
Interrogatories: Written questions requiring detailed answers under oath.
Requests for Production: Legal demands for evidence such as repair estimates, photographs, or medical records.
Depositions: Recorded verbal testimony taken before trial.
By combining these tools, vehicle accident lawyers in Omaha create a detailed record of evidence that supports your claim and maximizes your potential recovery.
How You Can Help Strengthen Your Car Accident Case
Even the most skilled Omaha accident lawyer can build a stronger case when clients stay proactive. Here’s how you can help your legal team:
Document everything: Take photos of the crash scene, your injuries, and property damage.
Keep medical records: Maintain all treatment and billing documentation to connect injuries directly to the accident.
Limit communication: Avoid discussing your case with insurance adjusters or posting about it on social media.
Stay responsive: Quickly provide your attorney with any requested information or updates.
These steps can make a major difference in how effective your lawyer’s Requests for Admission — and your entire case — will be.
Nebraska applies a modified comparative negligence rule under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 25-21,185.09. This means you can recover damages if you’re less than 50% at fault for the accident.
That’s why Requests for Admission are so powerful — they can establish clear evidence of the other driver’s fault, reducing or eliminating the chance that you’ll share liability.
For example, if a defendant admits to running a stop sign or driving distracted, your claim becomes significantly stronger under Nebraska law.
If you’ve been involved in a serious crash, you should reach out to an Omaha car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Attorneys can:
Prepare and file Requests for Admission
Manage communication with insurance companies
Gather witness statements and expert testimony
Prepare your case for trial if necessary
Keep in mind that Nebraska’s statute of limitations for car accident claims is four years (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 25-207). Waiting too long could jeopardize your right to compensation.
At Inkelaar Law, our Omaha Accident Lawyers have extensive experience using Requests for Admission and other discovery strategies to uncover the truth and prove negligence.
We’ve represented clients across Nebraska — from Omaha to Lincoln — helping them recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering after car crashes.
Our commitment to personalized care, transparency, and results-driven advocacy sets us apart in personal injury representation.
If you’ve been injured in a parking garage or car accident in Nebraska, don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact Inkelaar Law today for a free consultation.
You can call us or easily schedule your appointment online — our friendly intake team is ready to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and connect you with one of our experienced auto accident attorneys in Omaha.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational purposes only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation. For specific legal advice, please consult with an attorney who is qualified to handle your case.
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