The essential evidence needed to prove you car accident case
If you’ve ever been involved in a car accident, you know just how confusing and frightening that can be, especially if you were injured as a result. After the initial shock passes and the immediate physical and/or medical needs to you, your passengers, and anyone else involved in the accident have been attended to, it’s important to gather as much evidence as possible. Waiting to do so after the fact may result in lost evidence which could be important in proving your case.
There are many different types of evidence for a car accident — police reports, witness statements, pictures of the scene of the accident. Make sure to get the names and contact information of any witnesses, and record times and dates with all of your evidence. Exchange names, addresses, driver’s license and vehicle plate numbers, and insurance information with any other persons that were involved in the accident.
Evidence of injuries that have resulted from the accident include medical records and any other documentation of your physical injuries, such as photos, as well as any out-of-pocket bills from healthcare providers, diagnostic imaging, and any additional expenses that are related to the accident. Make sure you have documentation related to the damage sustained by your car and other personal property – repair and rental car receipts, etc.
Do you have enough evidence to file a lawsuit?
The burden of proof in obtaining compensation for damages resulting from a car accident lies with the plaintiff, the person seeking damages. The plaintiff must establish that the other driver involved in the accident was at fault and that this negligence resulted in the injuries and/or property damage sustained by the victim.
Good, solid evidence is really important when it comes to being successful at substantiating your claim that your injuries and damage to property were the fault of the other driver. Take pictures of the cars involved, of the road conditions and/or weather conditions at the time of the accident as well as making a note as to the time of day plus the day of the week that it occurred.
Working with an attorney
It’s important to get a copy of the police report as part of the evidence needed to file a lawsuit because it will include the officer’s written account of the details and causes of your accident plus it usually includes diagrams of the scene of the accident. The types of details that are part of a police report can be a big help in determining liability.
Just as important as gathering good, solid evidence is engaging the services of a personal injury attorney who is experienced in handling motor vehicle accidents. Los Angeles car accident attorney, Greg Yates, has a reputation for working tirelessly for clients in order to achieve the best possible settlements, awards, or jury verdicts. Mr Yates offers all clients his personalized attention and counsel while working to deliver the best legal care possible. Call our office to schedule a free consultation.