Buffalo, NY (WBEN) James Corasanti testified in his own defense Friday and Monday. As the criminal trial winds down, the civil action against him will soon be on the horizon. So, what will the criminal trial testimony mean for the civil suit?

Attorney Barry Covert says Corasanti's testimony was credible. "He's given a cogent, rationed response to the questions, and he's been able to explain what occurred the evening from his point of view, and why what occurred supports his view that he did not realize he had hit anybody," explains Covert.

Covert says that believability may not have a tremendous impact on the civil case. "I don't know if his testimony will increase the amount of the settlement," says Covert. "It will likely be based on other factors, like the pain and suffering Alix Rice went through before her tragic passing and the economic loss to the family."

One thing a civil trial will not have: surprises. "All of the witnesses are locked into the testimony they gave before (the criminal) trial under oath," says Covert.

Covert says in a civil trial, the threshold of proof is much lower than a criminal trial. Based on that testimony, Covert believes there is a strong amount of civil liability against Corasanti.