Guide to a Car Accident Personal Injury Claim

Many daily occurrences can result in a personal injury. According to the U.S Department of Justice, motor vehicle accidents make up over half (52%) of all personal injury claims.

A personal injury is sustained by a person when they are physically, mentally, or emotionally harmed as the result of the negligence or wrongful actions of a third party.

If you have been injured in a car accident and you believe another party was at fault, you could be entitled to compensation from the person or entity that is legally responsible for your injuries. It is advisable to seek legal advice from an experienced car accident attorney to see whether you have a viable claim and many firms such as Gina Corena & Associates offer free case consultations where they will help you understand your legal rights and options.

If you are considering filing a personal injury claim, then it is important to start collecting the necessary information your lawyer will need to prepare a strong case. This article will outline the basic steps to follow in preparing your claim.

Take Notes

After the initial shock of being involved in a car accident, it's important to know what to do at the scene and to take down certain information. This should include the name of the other driver, their contact information, and also the names and contact information of any passengers involved. Other details such as the insurance policy as well the make, model, and registration number on the car should also be recorded.

Police Reports

Depending on how serious your accident was, it may be advisable to report it to the police. Most police reports are available to the public and can be accessed upon request. They can serve as reliable evidence from an unbiased third party, helping to verify the details of your accident and establish whether the other party was at fault. 

Medical Records and Expenses

If you have received any injuries following a car accident it is important to seek medical help and have them examined by a professional. Many personal injury claims center around the extent of the harm suffered, so it is important to keep copies of your medical records which will help to establish the source of your injuries.

Medical records that pre-date your accident are also helpful in proving that there was no pre-existing illness or condition that caused your injury, such as whiplash; rather, it occurred directly as a result of your car accident.

Medical bills can add up quickly, so it is important to show evidence of the expense you have incurred as a result of your injuries, such as physical therapy, medication, or transportation to and from appointments. This evidence will also assist your lawyer in calculating the amount of compensation you should receive following your injuries.

Take Photographs

Providing visual evidence of the scene of the accident can help to determine who was at fault and how the accident occurred. Photographic evidence of the injuries you sustained will also provide key evidence in establishing the harm you suffered and the amount of compensation you deserve.

Taking the steps listed in this article will go a long way in helping you lay the foundation for a successful personal injury claim.

© 2023 Lawyer Herald All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
* This is a contributed article and this content does not necessarily represent the views of lawyerherald.com