They say that the devil is in the details. This is absolutely true when preparing for an auto accident case. You’ve been hit, you have been injured, and you are in pain. Our law firm is here to help you, but we need your help and active participation!
The absolute best way to help us help you is by being prepared with the appropriate documents to prove your case. In an auto accident case, the burden of proof is on you. This means simply that the defendant does not have to prove that he or she did not hurt you. Rather, you have to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant caused your injury and that your injuries are directly related to the accident. In order to help you do this, there are some key documents you absolutely must have in your toolbox.
Number One: Take Pictures
Pictures speak a thousand words. We strongly recommend that you take pictures not only of the car and the damage to the car, but also to you. Many people do not think about taking photographic evidence of their injuries. As strange as that may seem, taking a picture within a short time after the accident happening can help show what your injuries look like at the time. Pictures are a very easy way to make a good case to an insurance adjuster or to a jury and prove that your injuries are severe and painful. Always take pictures.
Number Two: Medical Bills
The only way to successfully measure recovery and a case is to prove damages. The best way to do that is to show how much your doctors have charged you for treating your injuries. Without these detailed medical bills, you will not be able to recover damages for your accident case.
Number Three: Medical Records
Apart from the bills, it is also crucially important that you ask your doctor to provide you with a complete set of your medical records. These records include test results, x-rays, doctors notes, and your diagnosis and treatment. These records from a medical professional are very important pieces of documentary evidence in your case.
Number Four: Lost Wages
If you had to miss work because of your injury, it is important to provide financial documentation so that we can prove the amount of money you lost due to the negligence of the defendant.
Number Five: Keep a Journal
Your memory is freshest right after the accident. Keeping a journal where you log how you feel, what treatment you have undergone, your physical and emotional well-being and other details can help you recall specifics about the event many months later. This journal can be an invaluable tool in preparing your case.
At Elrod Pope Law Firm, we have over 50 years’ experience combined handling injury cases of all types. We know the game plan that works to get you the maximum recovery you can get. While no one can ever guarantee a result, our experience has shown that collecting the above-mentioned documentation can seriously and positively affect your case and your potential recovery.
If you have any questions whatsoever about what to do in documenting your injuries from a car accident case, contact our Rock Hill, SC auto accident attorneys immediately and one of our lawyers will be in touch with you. There is no cost to you.
