After a car accident, you will likely file a lawsuit to recover damages. After all, you deserve compensation for any physical, property, or financial harm endured after the crash. However, this may be challenging, as you could receive little or no compensation depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Evidence is vital in accident-related claims. Before proceeding to court, ensure you have sufficient documents, photographs, and reports to help your case. The amount of money you receive may depend on how well you prove your case. If you are still learning about the legal aspects that could influence your claim, this article discusses some crucial steps you should take to increase the likelihood of a positive outcome. A personal injury lawyer like Andrew Statmore can help you understand your rights, pursue your claim, and seek fair compensation.
Seek Medical Attention
It is wise to see a qualified medical professional after the accident. Even if you are not in pain, ensure you seek medical treatment, as some accident symptoms take weeks to start showing. Similarly, make sure you adhere to all doctor appointments during your treatment. Get all recommended tests, scans, and prescriptions. Failing to do so could imply that you are not as injured as you claim. This could be used against you, leading to under-compensation or even losing the case. Finally, retain copies of all medical reports, prescriptions, and bills. You can use them to calculate the money spent on medical expenses.
Have a Comprehensive Police Report
Insurance companies will always contact the police to justify your losses. Without a police report, there will be no way to confirm your claims. Therefore, always ensure you report the incident to the police, who will assess the accident scene and write a report.
A police report will typically contain the following:
- The investigating officer’s name.
- Badge number.
- The personal details and insurance information of everyone involved in the accident.
This report can be used as evidence in court to support your claims.
Secure Records for Other Damages
You should never tire of tracking and safekeeping all records related to the accident. This includes property damage, lost wages, and travel expenses. Moreover, you can also provide documents that validate professional psychiatric help and interference with daily activities and interests. Some experts advise keeping a journal or record after an accident to demonstrate the impact of the injuries on your daily life.
Collect Witness Statements
If other people were present at the accident scene, ensure you take their statements and contact details. They could provide testimonies in court that work in your favor. However, if their testimonies are fatal to your case, you should be aware of their statements and prepare a counter-response if they are used against you.
Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer
Filing a lawsuit can be stressful and demanding, especially if you are unfamiliar with all the intricacies of the process. Therefore, hiring a qualified personal injury lawyer may be in your best interest. A skilled lawyer will also help you estimate the worth of your damages, thereby protecting you from under-compensation. They will represent you in court, and since most personal injury lawsuits take a long time to settle, this can save you time and energy. Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis and only ask for payment once you are fully compensated.
Conclusion
Recovering damages after a car accident requires careful attention to detail and diligent preparation. The success of your claim largely depends on the strength of your evidence. Medical records, police reports, and witness statements can play a crucial role in proving your case. While navigating the complexities of a personal injury claim can feel overwhelming, working with an experienced lawyer can significantly improve your chances of securing a fair settlement. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, manage deadlines, and protect your rights, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
