There are a lot of ways people can suffer injuries due to the negligence of another person or entity. You might have been hurt in a car wreck or injured in some other manner requiring constant care. You’re convinced you weren’t to blame for the accident, but you don’t know how to obtain the money you deserve from those who were.
The only way you’ll obtain full and fair compensation will be to prove the accident wasn’t your fault – and to determine who was responsible. Your only way of getting that proof will be with the help of a skilled personal accident attorney. At Sand Law, we have a team of lawyers who can investigate the accident and gather essential evidence.
Here’s some information on some things you can do to help your attorney build a personal injury case on your behalf. If you would like a free review of your case, please contact us online or call 651-291-7263.
Report the Accident to the Authorities Immediately
It’s important to immediately report any personal injury accident by calling 911 or contacting local law enforcement. By reporting the accident, Police can make an official report and investigate to determine who is at fault. Additionally, reporting the accident can help protect your legal rights and may be necessary for insurance purposes.
Document the Scene of the Accident with Images, Videos, and Personal Notes
Take pictures and videos of the accident scene, including any damage that may have occurred. Also, note the location of the accident and photograph any visible injuries you or others may have suffered. Doing so will be necessary for several reasons:
- Evidence – Photos and videos can help to establish what happened at the scene of the accident and who may be at fault.
- Insurance – Documentation can help to support your insurance claim and serve as evidence in case of disputes, whether the case involves a slip and fall or any other type of accident.
- Personal record – Personal notes of the accident can help you to remember important details that you may have forgotten later on.
Keep a Folder with Eyewitness Contact Information
Eyewitnesses can provide significant evidence in a personal injury case. Their accounts can help to establish the cause of an accident and can help to support the victim’s claim for damages. That’s why it’s essential to document their contact information immediately after an accident. Your attorney will contact witnesses to get their accounts of what happened.
Witness statements can help establish who may be at fault and serve as critical evidence in insurance claims and legal proceedings. These statements could prove critical in determining liability and establishing negligence.
Get Medical Attention, Follow Your Treatment Plan, and Keep All Medical Documentation
Get medical help immediately after a personal injury accident, even if you don’t think your injury is severe. Some injuries, such as back injuries, may not be immediately apparent but can have serious long-term consequences if left untreated.
After seeking medical attention, you’ll need to follow your treatment plan as prescribed by your doctor. This plan may include follow-up appointments, physical therapy, or surgery. You’ll also need to keep all medical documentation, including diagnostic test results, prescriptions, and medical bills.
This documentation can help to establish the extent of your injuries and the cost of your medical treatment, which can be essential for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
It’s also important to note that if you miss appointments or fail to follow your treatment plan, the insurance company will use that failure against you in legal proceedings. They’ll claim you’re not committed to your recovery.
Put Together Evidence of Your Claims
The at-fault party’s insurance company will do all it can to deny your compensation. Here are two of the more common examples of evidence that could further strengthen your case.
- Police report – An official accident report can provide important information about the cause and who may be at fault.
- Wage/income loss documentation – If you were unable to work due to your injuries, you must provide evidence of your lost wages or income. This can include pay stubs, tax returns, and letters from your employer.
List Out Your Damages and Their Value
To calculate the value of your damages, you will need to provide documentation such as medical bills, pay stubs, and property repair estimates. It’s also important to remember that some damages, such as pain and suffering or future medical expenses, are harder to calculate. In such cases, it’s best to consult an attorney who can help you estimate their value.
Hire an Experienced Minnesota Attorney to Build a Personal Injury Case For You
Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney can be beneficial for several reasons:
- Knowledge of the law – An attorney can help you to understand the legal process and your rights under the law. They can also help you to navigate the complicated legal system and ensure that your claim is correctly handled.
- Evidence gathering – An attorney can help you to gather and present the evidence necessary to support your claim. They can also help you to obtain evidence through the legal process, such as by subpoena or discovery.
- Negotiation and settlement – An attorney can negotiate with the insurance company or other party on your behalf to reach a fair settlement. They can also help you understand your case’s strengths and weaknesses. Then, they’ll advise you on whether to accept a settlement or take your case to trial.
- Representation in court – If your case goes to trial, an attorney can represent you in court. They’ll help you present your case in the best possible way.
Read More: The Anatomy of a Personal Injury Claim: What to Expect When You’re the Plaintiff
Sand Law Will Build Your Personal Injury Case for You, So You Can Focus on Recovering
When hiring an attorney, it’s best to look for one with experience in handling personal injury cases similar to yours. Sand Law has that experience and will provide the aggressive representation needed to help you recover all of your damages. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win or settle your case.
Contact us online or call 651-291-7263 for a free consultation.