What should I do after a Motor Vehicle Accident or a Personal Injury Incident?
Immediately following a motor vehicle accident or personal injury incident can be a very traumatic time. You may be confused, injured, or looking for medical or legal assistance. The short window of time following these events where the most crucial evidence can either be captured or lost. This blog will outline five important things that you should do following a motor vehicle accident or personal injury incident that could greatly help you in bringing a successful lawsuit.
1. Photograph the scene
Photographs and videos are some of the best evidence possible. While memories may fade or differ between the date of an injury and the date of trial, photographs provide concrete evidence. For example, it would be very difficult for a defendant to refute a photograph showing an unmarked puddle of water in the aisle of a grocery store that caused someone to slip and fall and injure themselves.
2. Gather contact information from any possible witness(es)
Similar to photographs, eye witnesses to a motor vehicle accident or personal injury incident are very strong sources of evidence. It is important to gather their contact information quickly as it is possible you may never see them again, making it impossible to call them as a witness.
3. Seek medical attention
It is important to attend to any immediate injuries you may have by going to the emergency room, urgent care, or whatever medical services are most appropriate for your injuries. Once you have received your initial treatment, it is also important for you to obtain a proper diagnosis of your injuries from your doctor(s) as this will be relevant when pursuing further treatment, as well as your lawsuit.
4. Contact a personal injury lawyer
The sooner you are able to contact a personal injury lawyer, the sooner they will be able to start working on your lawsuit. It is important to contact a personal injury lawyer sooner rather than later as you only have specified amounts of time after a motor vehicle accident or personal injury incident to commence a lawsuit.
5. Document everything
If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident or personal injury incident, there will be lots of documentation. This will include medical records, insurance correspondence, rehabilitation records, receipts for medical purchases, etc. It is important to keep all of this documentation for your lawyer for two reasons. First, it can be relevant evidence in your lawsuit. Second, it can be relevant to quantifying your losses and calculating your damages entitlement.
Conclusion
Being involved in a motor vehicle accident or personal injury incident can be highly distressing, but following these five simple steps can greatly increase your chances at bringing a successful lawsuit.
Contact Spencer today regarding your motor vehicle accident or personal injury claim.