In very simplistic terms, in how to prove a personal injury case, you have the burden to prove two things: (1) negligence that (2) caused your damages. This is a two-pronged test, and lacking either, your case will not succeed. Whether you have already hired an attorney or you may be thinking about doing so, there are certain documents and information that your attorney will need in order to ensure your case does succeed. In a typical auto accident case, your attorney will need the following things:
Accident Report or Drivers Exchange of Information: If you don’t have it yet, your attorney can request it. If you were given the report number by the investigating police officer, make sure you let your attorney know.
Photos or video of the scene and of damage to the vehicles involved: It can be as easy as photos taken on your phone. You don’t need to even print the images, just e-mail them to your attorney. Don’t rely on photos taken by the auto repair shop. Take your own photos.
Your auto insurance policy effective at the time of the accident: If you don’t have a copy of the actual policy, your attorney can request it from your insurance company.
All information exchanged at the scene: Such as the name and contact information of the other drivers and passengers involved; the names of insurance companies of the other drivers; names of any witnesses
Any statements you have made: If you have given a recorded statement to your own insurance adjuster or the other drivers’ insurance adjuster, make sure to tell your attorney, so that a copy of your statement can be obtained.
Copies of any traffic citations issued to you at the scene and any traffic or criminal court hearings scheduled.
Your automobile repair estimate.
Your hospital or medical treatment records and billing, along with the names of your treating physicians.
Copies of your health insurance card(s).
Lost wage documentations: Such as a copy of a recent pay check stub or whatever reflects your salary so that your attorney can make a claim to recover your lost wages.
Documents involving any prior accidents or injuries: Such as prior medical records or the names of prior treating physicians. Inform your attorney of all prior accidents, even if you didn’t seek medical care.
It can seem unfair that when you have been injured due to someone else’s carelessness, that you are the one who has to carry the burden of proving your case. However, providing the things listed above to your attorney at the beginning of your case will help your attorney maximize your recovery.
Injured due to someone’s negligence? We know how to recover your medical bills and lost wages.
Every injury case truly is different. Have questions about yours? Call 813-534-6319 for your free, no obligation telephone conversation with attorney Mike Hancock. Or reach us by email. Phones answered 24/7. If we don’t recover money for you, you don’t pay us.
