5 Most Important Tips for Documenting Your Accident Scene
Proper documentation at an accident scene strengthens your case when you need to work with a car accident lawyer. This critical information can serve as invaluable evidence, giving you leverage should disputes arise. By capturing precise details, you empower yourself with solid evidence that ensures fair representation. Follow these straightforward steps to create a reliable record of events:
Checklist for Documenting Your Accident:
Take photos of vehicles, damage, and surroundings.
Obtain contact information from any witnesses.
Document road conditions, weather, and time.
Write down specific details immediately.
Gather insurance, registration, and contact details.
Photograph the Scene from All Angles
Focus on wide shots to document the accident scene and close-ups to highlight specific damage. Use these images to show the position of each vehicle, skid marks, road signs, and any visible hazards. Try to include objects like guardrails or signals that may clarify the circumstances. These photos make your case more persuasive when your car accident attorney details events.
Obtain Witness Information
Locating witnesses can provide substantial support. If anyone saw the accident, ask for their contact information, including name, phone number, and a brief statement of what they observed. Witnesses are often impartial and can describe events in ways you may have missed. Their insights can be particularly valuable if there’s any dispute over fault. A skilled auto injury attorney often leverages witness testimony to corroborate your claims. Witness statements can bring clarity and even sway outcomes in complex cases.
Document the Surrounding Environment
Recording the environment adds context, which can be crucial to understanding how the accident occurred. Note any unique weather conditions, road obstacles, and other external factors. It’s a good idea to use your phone’s timestamp feature for these photos to validate when they were taken. Taking careful environmental notes allows your car accident attorney to address potential external influences that may have contributed. Capturing every element accurately builds trust in your case.
Write Down Every Detail You Remember
It’s easy to forget details after the initial shock of an accident, so write down everything immediately. Include details like the time of day, weather, and what you were doing just before the accident. Noting specific sensations or sounds can also strengthen your recall. A written account can lend integrity to your recollection and preserve facts you might overlook later. Detailed notes offer consistency if you discuss the incident with an attorney or insurance representative.
Gather Essential Documents and Records
Collect the necessary documentation, like insurance details, registration, and driver’s license numbers from all parties involved. This process confirms identities and lends credibility to your claims. Collecting these records shows diligence, which can leave a favorable impression on your case. Organized records allow your attorney to add depth to your case, illustrating your commitment to transparency.
These practical steps give you control over the information that supports your claim. Documentation is your most powerful ally, especially when details come into question. Taking immediate, thorough action may make all the difference in achieving a positive outcome for your case.
Types Of Injuries You May Sustain In An Accident
Injuries from an accident can range from minor scrapes to severe, life-altering damage. Understanding the difference between potential injuries helps you understand the impact and guide your next steps. Remember that you should always consult a personal injury lawyer before accepting any offers made by the business or property owner.
Head and Brain Injuries
Head injuries are common after car accidents, falls, or sports-related impacts. Even minor jolts can cause lasting effects. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), including concussions, occur when your brain is violently shaken or impacted. Severe TBIs may lead to cognitive issues, memory loss, or emotional struggles. A personal injury attorney experienced in handling these cases can be vital, helping you navigate complex medical and legal details to recover the compensation you need.
Neck and Back Injuries
Neck and back injuries can cause ongoing pain and loss of mobility, deeply affecting daily life. Whiplash, a common neck injury from car accidents, happens when your neck is rapidly jerked forward and back. Spinal injuries, such as herniated discs, can lead to chronic pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis in severe cases. A skilled legal professional can support you in these challenging situations, ensuring you don’t overlook any crucial steps.
Fractures and Broken Bones
Bone fractures and breaks are common outcomes of accidents. Even a simple slip can result in a broken wrist or ankle. Severe fractures may require surgery, physical therapy, or lengthy recovery times, keeping you away from work and daily activities. A trusted personal injury lawyer can work on your behalf, helping you document the severity of your injury and supporting your case for a fair settlement. Here are some typical fractures you might experience:
Wrist fractures are common in falls and collisions.
Ankle breaks often require a lengthy recovery.
Rib fractures take time to heal, and may cause intense breathing pain.
Pelvic fractures will typically demand rehabilitation.
Clavicle fractures limit arm movement for extended periods.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are often the most dangerous and require urgent medical attention. Blunt force trauma in an accident can cause internal bleeding or organ damage, putting you at risk for life-threatening complications. Damaged organs like the liver or kidneys can lead to extensive treatments or surgery. Relying on an experienced accident attorney is essential here—they can manage sensitive legal matters while you focus on recovery, ensuring every detail is handled with care.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and bruises, may seem less severe but can lead to persistent pain. Whiplash is also classified as a soft tissue injury and can restrict neck movement for weeks or even months. Severe bruising can be painful and may mask deeper issues, including muscle tears. Consulting a seasoned legal expert helps ensure all your injuries, visible and hidden, are accounted for, preventing unexpected medical costs.
In any accident, your health and recovery are top priorities. Securing the help of a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference in how well you’re supported through the aftermath of your injuries.
Protecting Your Rights After a Personal Injury
One of the most critical steps to take after an injury accident is protecting your rights by seeking legal representation. Hiring a personal injury lawyer can help you navigate your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Whether your injury occurred in an auto accident, a workplace incident, at a business, or even on private property, knowing how to safeguard your legal rights is essential.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s crucial to be examined by a healthcare professional. Documenting your injuries is vital for building a strong legal case later on. Auto injury lawyers often advise their clients to keep detailed records of all medical treatments, diagnoses, and doctor recommendations. These records will play a significant role in justifying the compensation you seek.
Collect Evidence at the Scene
If you’re physically able, take photographs of the accident site, your injuries, and any property damage. Additionally, collect contact information from witnesses who can provide statements to support your claim. Attorneys emphasize the importance of having this documentation available, as it can strengthen a disputed case.
Report the Accident to the Authorities
After an injury, it’s essential to report the incident to the proper authorities. The police report will provide an objective record of the accident and often includes the officer’s assessment of fault, which can be useful. If your injury occurred in a public place or at work, make sure to inform management or the relevant parties so they can document the event. This formal documentation serves as a foundation for legal action if needed.
Communicate Carefully with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies after an accident is tricky, as their goal is to minimize financial liability. Refrain from providing detailed statements or signing any documents without consulting your personal injury attorney. Many auto personal injury lawyers specialize in handling insurance claims and can help you avoid common pitfalls, such as settling too early or for less compensation than you deserve. Letting your attorney handle communications can prevent the insurance company from taking advantage of your vulnerable position.
Liability for Injuries on Private Property
While many personal injury cases involve auto accidents or public spaces, injuries on private property are also common. Whether it’s a slip and fall in a neighbor’s home or an injury caused by a defective feature on their property, you have the right to pursue legal action. An attorney can help you file a claim against a homeowner. Understanding your rights and the responsibilities of property owners is key to securing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Protecting your rights after a personal injury requires immediate action. By seeking medical attention, collecting evidence, reporting the incident, and consulting with a qualified attorney, you can build a strong compensation case. Whether your injury occurs in an auto accident or on private property, having a skilled personal injury attorney by your side ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
A Great Personal Injury Lawyer Maximizes Your Compensation
Hiring a great personal injury lawyer can make all the difference when it comes to maximizing your compensation after an accident. Victims often face mounting medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress, all of which deserve fair compensation. But navigating the legal landscape can be complex. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer will help you understand your rights and work diligently to secure the best possible outcome.
The Role of an Accident Attorney in Negotiations
One of the primary ways a personal injury attorney helps maximize your compensation is through skilled negotiations with insurance companies. Insurers are often quick to offer low settlements to avoid paying what you truly deserve. A seasoned attorney knows the tactics insurers use and can counter them effectively. By gathering all relevant evidence, including medical records and accident reports, your lawyer can build a stronger case.
Legal Expertise and Strategy
A personal injury case is more than just filing paperwork; it involves strategic planning and legal know-how. Experienced accident attorneys are familiar with the laws and regulations surrounding injury claims. A skilled lawyer uses their expertise to present the strongest possible case. Additionally, they understand how to calculate both economic and non-economic damages, ensuring that you receive compensation for not only medical expenses but also emotional suffering and loss of quality of life.
Access to Expert Witnesses
Another important aspect of a personal injury case is the use of expert witnesses. A great personal injury lawyer often has a network of professionals who can provide credible testimony to support your claim. These experts can include medical professionals, accident reconstruction specialists, and even economists who can calculate the financial impact of your injuries. The testimony of these experts will increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome, particularly in serious or complex injuries.
Maximizing Compensation Through Litigation
While many personal injury cases are settled out of court, some may require litigation. A great lawyer is not only prepared to negotiate but is also willing to go to trial if necessary. Litigation is sometimes the best course, especially when the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement. During a trial, your lawyer presents evidence, questions witnesses, and makes arguments aimed at the optimum outcome. Going the extra mile can often push insurance companies to offer a better settlement rather than risk losing in court.
Emotional Support and Guidance
The aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, and having someone on your side who understands the process can alleviate stress. From answering your questions to keeping you updated on the status of your case, a great lawyer offers guidance every step of the way. This combination of legal expertise and emotional support ensures that you can recover while your lawyer maximizes your compensation.
From skilled negotiations to expert testimonies and the willingness to take your case to court, personal injury lawyers employ a wide range of strategies to maximize your financial recovery. Choosing the right lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome, allowing you to focus on healing.
10 Most Common Places for Personal Injuries to Happen
Accidents can happen anywhere, often leading to personal injuries that require legal assistance. Understanding the most common places where these injuries occur can help individuals take preventive measures and know when to seek appropriate help. A personal injury lawyer can provide guidance where negligence or unsafe conditions lead to harm. Let’s look at the top 10 places where personal injuries are likely to occur:
Homes
Surprisingly to some, the home presents numerous dangers. A personal injury attorney can assist in cases where faulty products or poor construction contribute to an accident. Ensuring safety measures such as using non-slip mats can mitigate risks.
Workplaces
Work environments vary, and so do the hazards. Offices can pose risks through repetitive strain injuries, while construction sites might expose workers to falls or machinery-related injuries. Employers are responsible for maintaining safe conditions,and may face legal action if negligence leads to harm.
Roads and Highways
Roads are notorious for accidents, involving vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. Wearing seatbelts, adhering to traffic laws, and staying alert can reduce risks. Victims of road accidents may require legal assistance to cover medical expenses and damages.
Sports Facilities
While sports are enjoyable and healthy, they also present injury risks. Whatever the physical sport, individuals can suffer from related injuries. Proper equipment, warm-up routines, and adherence to safety rules are imperative. In cases of negligence, victims might pursue legal compensation claims.
Public Places
Public spaces, such as parks, malls, and restaurants, often witness accidents due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or crowded conditions. Victims of accidents in public places may seek legal recourse if negligence is a factor.
Schools and Daycares
Children face unique safety challenges, from playground injuries to classroom accidents. Proper supervision and maintenance of equipment are vital to prevent incidents. Legal action might be necessary if injuries occur due to inadequate safety measures.
Nursing Homes
Elderly residents in nursing homes are particularly vulnerable to falls, medication errors, and abuse. Facility regulations must provide a safe and caring environment. If negligence is suspected, consult an attorney to address any legal concerns.
Retail Stores
Retail environments pose slip-and-fall risks, especially during wet weather or sales events. Store owners are responsible for maintaining clean and hazard-free premises. If an accident occurs, victims are entitled to seek compensation.
Amusement Parks
Park operators must ensure equipment safety and follow strict protocols. Visitors should follow instructions to minimize risks. Legal claims may arise if accidents occur due to equipment failure or inadequate safety measures.
Hospitals
Hospitals can also be sites of personal injuries, from slip-and-fall accidents to medical errors. Patients and visitors should be cautious of potential hazards. In medical malpractice or negligence cases, consulting a personal injury attorney can guide on pursuing legal action.
Personal injuries can occur in various settings, each with unique risks and safety measures. By understanding these common locations and taking appropriate precautions, individuals can reduce their chances of injury. However, when accidents do happen, seeking legal assistance can help victims secure the compensation they need to recover and move forward.
Safety Should Be Job #1 and a Personal Injury Lawyer Will Help Resolve Issues
In today’s workplaces, safety is not just a priority but a fundamental necessity. Whether you’re in a construction site, an office building, or a manufacturing facility, ensuring a safe environment for workers is crucial for productivity, morale, and legal compliance. However, accidents can still happen despite preventive measures, leading to injuries that may require legal recourse to resolve effectively. Let’s look at how a personal injury lawyer can play a pivotal role in resolving issues when those rare incidents occur.
The Importance of Safety as Job #1
Safety as Job #1 isn’t merely a slogan; it reflects a commitment to protecting the well-being of employees. Additionally, a safe workplace isn’t just about complying with regulations; it’s about fostering a culture where workers feel valued and protected. Employers have a legal and moral obligation to provide a safe environment, including proper training, equipment maintenance, and hazard identification measures. Investing in safety measures not only reduces the risk of accidents but also enhances employee morale and productivity.
Role of a Personal Injury Lawyer
Despite best efforts, workplace accidents can occur due to negligence, equipment failures, or unsafe working conditions. In such cases, a personal injury attorney specializing in workplace injuries becomes a crucial ally for employees seeking justice and compensation. These legal professionals specialize in navigating the complexities of personal injury law, advocating for their clients’ rights to fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by workplace accidents.
A personal injury lawyer starts by assessing the circumstances surrounding the accident, gathering evidence, and evaluating the extent of the injuries and their impact on the client’s life. They provide guidance on legal options and strategies, negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing litigation if necessary to ensure their clients receive adequate compensation. By understanding the intricacies of workers’ compensation laws and liability statutes, personal injury lawyers advocate vigorously on behalf of injured workers, holding employers accountable for negligence or unsafe practices that led to the accident.
Resolving Workplace Injury Issues
When an injury occurs on the job, swift action is crucial. Employers should immediately address the incident, provide necessary medical attention, and document the details accurately. Employees should report the accident promptly and seek medical treatment to ensure their health and well-being. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer early in the process can help protect rights and streamline the claims process.
Personal injury lawyers bring expertise and experience to the table, guiding clients through the complexities of filing a claim, negotiating settlements, or representing them in court if a fair resolution cannot be reached through negotiation. They understand the emotional and financial toll of workplace injuries and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients.
Prioritizing safety as Job #1 in every workplace is not just a legal obligation but a moral imperative. However, when accidents do occur, seeking legal representation from a reputable personal injury lawyer is crucial. These professionals specialize in navigating the complexities of workplace injury claims, advocating fiercely for the rights of injured workers to secure fair compensation and justice.
What to Look for in a Great Personal Injury Lawyer
When involved in an accident that results in serious injuries, the first step for many is to seek legal counsel. But with thousands of lawyers to choose from — some less experienced or reputable than others — it’s important to take that step with care to ensure the success of your case.
IBISWorld data shows that there were more than 48,000 personal injury attorneys in the United States in 2023. In Ohio alone, nearly 17,000 lawyers take on injury-related cases, according to the Ohio Bar’s directory.
Clearly, if you want the best outcome for your case, you’ll need to choose carefully. When searching for an attorney, it’s crucial to do your due diligence as if your chances for compensation depend on it, as they very well may.
How to Find an Attorney
Researching personal injury law firms in your area may sound time-consuming, even overwhelming. However, it can often be as simple as making a few phone calls.
Referrals can come from many sources, such as family members or friends who have successfully won a case using a particular personal injury lawyer. Alternatively, you might have a friend or know a friend of a friend who practices law. Even if they don’t focus on personal injury, they may be able to make a recommendation.
Another good source — the best one for vetted lawyers — is a local American Bar Association referral service. Keep in mind, however, that such services may charge a fee.
While you might have seen personal injury lawyer ads on TV, online, or in print publications, it’s wise not to make advertising your only source. Some lawyers may be volume-driven and geared toward fast turnover rather than outcome-focused. A far better approach is to aim to gather three to five referrals from different sources.
What to Look for in a Personal Injury Lawyer
Once you’ve got a list, you can reach out to each firm and schedule a consultation, which most personal injury attorneys offer at no charge. Here are a few things to look for during your consultation:
Reputation
To gauge a firm’s reputation, find out whether they’ve received awards, high rankings, or other industry recognition in the past. It’s also a good idea to search for reviews from previous clients.
Experience
Make sure that personal injuries are the firm’s primary practice area and that its attorneys have a track record for achieving favorable outcomes for their clients. Don’t be afraid to request examples of successful cases.
Depending on your needs, it may also be wise to verify that the firm has mediation or trial experience.
Communication
When interacting with a particular attorney, pay attention to their communication style. Did they welcome your questions? Were their explanations clear and knowledgeable? Did you sense sincerity in how they expressed concern for you and your case?
The answers to these questions may influence your rapport with a given lawyer, as well as their ability to be of service to you.
Your Decision Matters — Make It Count
If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t just settle on the first personal injury attorney you come across. Gather multiple recommendations, research the firms in detail, and meet with an attorney at each to get a sense of their personality and expertise.
By being proactive and taking the right steps, you can find an attorney who will prove to be a stalwart champion for your case.
A Great Personal Injury Lawyer Will Stand Up to Corporate Law Teams
After a personal injury incident, you must fulfill several obligations such as file an insurance claim and if appropriate, build a persuasive case before filing a civil lawsuit that seeks monetary damages. Hiring a personal injury lawyer helps you receive the legal support required to move through the insurance claim and civil lawsuit processes. In addition, a great personal injury lawyer will stand up to corporate law teams.
Facing a corporate law team presents different types of obstacles to hurdle than the obstacles presented by small law firms and individual attorneys. First, corporate law teams possess many more legal resources to pull from when the time comes to litigate your case. Second, corporate law firms assign attorneys to cases that match their legal specialization. You can count on facing an experienced team of litigators that specialize in litigating personal injury cases, Third, corporate law teams consist of experienced attorneys who have established professional relationships with the participants in a case such as the judge.
Let’s see how a personal injury attorney stands up to corporate law teams.
Interacts with the Insurance Company
Insurance companies often take advantage of policyholders who file claims without the legal support provided by a personal injury attorney. Following the advice of the corporate law team, an insurance company might delay processing your claim and/or undervalue the amount of compensation. Your personal injury lawyer interacts with every employee representing the insurance company who is involved with your claim, which includes the lawyers who are part of the corporate law team.
Meet Deadlines
A corporate law team advises its clients not to make you aware of filing deadlines. Although you do not have to meet a deadline to file an auto insurance claim, you should act with a sense of urgency to receive compensation in a timely manner. However, you do have to meet a deadline if you file an appeal on a denied insurance claim or for an insurance claim that is undervalued. For a civil lawsuit, you must file the proper documents before the expiration of the statute of limitations. Each state has established a deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit.
Negotiate a Settlement
Most civil lawsuits that concern personal injury law never reach the trial phase of the litigation process. Instead, both parties try to negotiate a settlement to avoid a costly and time-consuming civil trial. Corporate law teams assign the most skilled negotiators to go back and forth with personal injury attorneys. This means you should counter that expertise by hiring a personal injury lawyer who has a proven record of success negotiating settlements for personal injury cases. Your personal injury lawyer submits an offer, which the other party accepts or rejects. Several rounds of counter offers can follow until both parties reach a settlement.
Hire the Most Skilled Personal Injury Lawyer
What defines a skilled personal injury attorney? It starts with years of experience. You want to work with an accomplished litigator who has compiled many years of experience getting the clients the compensation that they deserve. Your personal injury lawyer should understand complex medical terms to help you receive just compensation for medical expenses. As previously mentioned, your personal injury attorney should possess effective negotiating skills to counter the skill level of a corporate team of litigators. Finally, a personal injury lawyer should be a responsive communicator to help you navigate the many obstacles that can block the progress of your case.
To confirm the skill level of every personal injury attorney on your shortlist of candidates, read the reviews left by clients on sites such as Yelp and Google. You also should access every attorney’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) page.
6 Things to Look for in a Personal Injury Lawyer
A personal injury lawyer who specializes in car accident cases provides several types of legal support. First, an attorney helps you file an insurance claim by interacting with the adjuster processing your case. Second, your personal injury lawyer conducts an extensive investigation that involves collecting physical evidence and interviewing witnesses. Personal injury lawyers also negotiate settlements and calculate fair values for compensation. Finally, if your car accident attorney can prove another party committed one or more acts of negligence, you receive legal support during the entire litigation process.
The question is not whether you should hire a personal injury lawyer. Instead, the question is what criteria should you look for when hiring a car accident attorney?
Let’s review the six things to look for in a personal injury lawyer.
Experience
Experience is much more than accumulating years of service as a personal injury lawyer. Although years of service give you an idea about an attorney’s skill level, you should be more focused on the results a lawyer got during the years of service. What percentage of cases has a personal injury lawyer helped a client receive just compensation, whether it was in the form of an approved insurance claim or a favorable decision issued during a civil trial?
Handles Your Case From Start to Finish
Do not take for granted that the personal injury lawyer who meets with you during a free consultation will provide legal support throughout the entire litigation and insurance claim process. Some attorneys meet with clients for a free consultation, only to delegate the responsibilities for the remainder of a case to paralegals and less experienced personal injury lawyers. Make sure the attorney that you hire provides support during every phase of the legal process.
Works on a Contingency Fee Basis
A contingency fee payment is a type of compensation in which an attorney receives a percentage of the money approved for an insurance claim, as well as a percentage of the money awarded during a civil trial. Personal injury lawyers who operate on a contingency fee basis as opposed to receiving an hourly fee are much more motivated to get their clients just compensation. Contingency fees for personal injury cases range from 25 percent up to 40 percent.
Open to Negotiations
Negotiating a settlement during a civil trial saves you both time and money. Your personal injury lawyer submits an initial offer that the other party accepts or rejects. If the other party rejects the initial offer, several rounds of counter offers can follow until both sides agree to a settlement or decide to move to the next step of the litigation process. Unfortunately, some attorneys refuse to negotiate settlements. You want your personal injury lawyer to be open to negotiations.
Responsive Communicator
You already have enough stress in your life to deal with an attorney who is a poor communicator. A responsive personal injury lawyer promptly returns text, phone, and email messages. You should be able to determine the responsiveness of an attorney before you decide to hire one. Your personal injury lawyer also should be effective at explaining complex legal topics, as well as spot on when it comes to notifying you about important upcoming events.
Online Reviews
Attorneys typically post client testimonials on their websites. Although client testimonials give you insight into a lawyer’s reputation, you also should read the reviews left by clients on sites such as Yelp and Google to determine the skill level of every personal injury lawyer on your shortlist. Look for common positive attributes mentioned by numerous clients. We also recommend that you check out every attorney’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) page.
Who Is Liable If I Was Injured At A Neighbor's House?
You sustained one or more injuries at a neighbor’s house. Whether you slipped and fell or tumbled down a few stairs, the injuries that you sustained have caused you to rack up a substantial medical bill. In addition, you expect to pay for future medical services such as the use of an assistive device and/or undergoing comprehensive physical therapy sessions. Even if you do not incur additional medical costs, you are still on the financial hook. This prompts one important question: Who is liable if you were injured at a neighbor’s house?
The short answer is your neighbor is the most likely party held responsible for you sustaining one or more injuries. Your case probably falls under a type of law practice called premises liability. However, other circumstances can place a legal burden on another party. To determine the answer to the question, “Who is liable if I was injured at a neighbor’s house,” you should contact an experienced and state-licensed personal injury lawyer.
What is Premises Liability?
Premises liability represents a type of personal injury law that follows many of the same principles followed for other personal injury cases such as car accidents and medical malpractice. This type of personal injury law involved demonstrating that a property owner failed to prevent an accident that caused a visitor to sustain one or more injuries. To win a premises liability lawsuit, your personal injury lawyer must prove the existence of four legal elements.
First, your personal injury lawyer must show the plaintiff had a duty of care to protect you against harm. Second, you must prove your neighbor violated the duty of care doctrine by committing one or more acts of negligence. Third, the incident must have directly caused you to sustain one or more injuries. Finally, your injuries must have generated financial losses in the form of medical bills.
How Does My Personal Injury Lawyer Build a Persuasive Case?
Several factors play a role in helping your personal injury lawyer build a strong premises liability case. Physical evidence is the heart of a strong premises liability case. Your attorney submits photographs of the accident scene, which can be taken by you, as well as any witnesses who saw the accident. If your neighbor installed a security camera system, you might be able to extract video sequences that prove your neighbor committed one or more acts of negligence. Witness accounts of the accident bolster the strength of the physical evidence gathered by your personal injury lawyer.
To receive just compensation for your injuries, you must submit copies of all medical bills. This includes the results of diagnostic tests, as well as copies of treatment and rehabilitation bills. Copies of your financial records verify the amount of money you have paid to different healthcare facilities. Notarized statements by doctors and surgeons demonstrate what you can expect to spend for future medical care. Your employer also can help by showing that you lost wages due to the seriousness of your injuries.
Take Action Today
Hiring a personal injury lawyer who specializes in handling premises liability cases is crucial if you expect to receive just compensation for your injuries. Your attorney conducts a detailed investigation and then calculates a reasonable value for compensation that you use when filing an insurance claim and a civil lawsuit that seeks monetary damages. Instead of dealing with an insurance adjuster, your personal injury lawyer handles the claim during every step of the review process. Your attorney can negotiate a settlement with the insurance adjuster, as well as the attorney representing the other party. One of the most important responsibilities of your personal injury lawyer is to file a civil lawsuit before the expiration of the statute of limitations.
What Information Do I Need to Give My Personal Injury Lawyer?
After getting involved in a motor vehicle collision, you should take several steps to help build a case to receive compensation. First, you call 911 to alert the appropriate law enforcement agency about the crash. Second, you should seek medical care to diagnose and treat every injury that results from the accident. Then, obtain the contact information from witnesses and take photographs of the accident scene by using your cell phone. The most important step involves contacting an experienced personal injury lawyer to schedule a free consultation.
Personal injury cases extend well beyond motor vehicle collisions. If you are a victim of a slip and fall, medical negligence, or a defective product, a personal injury attorney can help you recover your financial losses. The key is to come prepared for the free consultation by knowing what information to give to your personal injury lawyer.
Accident Report
An accident report is a crucial document that provides your attorney with information such as the date and time of the personal injury incident, as well as where the incident took place. If you cannot obtain a copy of the accident report, your personal injury lawyer contacts the appropriate source to obtain it. An accident report should help your personal injury lawyer determine the cause of the incident and whether another party committed one or more acts of negligence.
Photographs of the Incident Scene
Photographs can reveal plenty of useful information, such as where a personal injury incident took place. For car accident cases, law enforcement officials typically include photographic evidence in the official police report. For other types of personal injury cases, you should be proactive and take photos of the incident scene. You also should request video camera tape that might help your attorney determine the cause.
Witness Contact Information
Witness statements provide support for the physical evidence collected at the scene of the personal injury incident. You do not have to interview witnesses after a personal injury incident. Just write down the names and contact information for your attorney to reference. Your personal injury lawyer should interview witnesses as close to the date of the incident as possible to receive the most accurate accounts of what transpired before, during, and after the personal injury incident.
Medical Records
Medical bills by far represent the costliest expense associated with a personal injury incident. The costs associated with diagnostic tests, treatment programs, and physical therapy sessions can soar into the tens of thousands of dollars. Your personal injury lawyer needs copies of medical records to convince an insurance adjuster to approve a compensation claim. Copies of medical records also play a role in a judge determining the value of the compensation awarded during a civil trial.
Insurance Information
When you meet with a personal injury lawyer for a free consultation, the lawyer needs to review your insurance information to determine the extent of your coverage. You also should provide a personal injury lawyer with the insurance information of the other party or parties. Although you should not contact your insurance company until you speak with an attorney, make sure to tell your lawyer if you did reach out to your insurance company.Before you meet for a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer, ask the attorney what information you need to bring to the first meeting.
A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You Settle Slip and Fall Cases Quickly
At first, you feel embarrassed because you slipped and fell. However, the embarrassment wears off fast, as you realize that you have sustained an injury. Slip and fall incidents do not make the front page of the local newspaper like car accident cases sometimes do. They also do not receive the same scrutiny as medical malpractice cases. However, slip and fall incidents can cause serious injuries, such as a fractured arm or a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
According to research conducted by the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), slip and fall cases account for more than one million emergency room visits every year in the United States. If you sustained one or more injuries as the result of a slip and fall incident, you should act with a sense of urgency by contacting an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in handling slip and fall cases. A personal injury lawyer can help you settle a slip and fall case quickly for several reasons.
Monitors Your Insurance Claim
Insurance adjusters love it when policyholders do not receive legal support during the claim filing process. Without a state-licensed personal injury attorney, an insurance adjuster is more likely to deny your claim even if you submit persuasive physical evidence. You also might deal with an insurance adjuster who prolongs the claim review process. By hiring an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in handling slip and fall cases, you receive an insurance claim review in a timely manner. Your lawyer monitors the progress of your claim to ensure it receives the attention that it deserves.
Negotiates a Settlement
A personal injury lawyer who possesses strong negotiation skills is more likely to settle a slip and fall case much faster than an attorney who cannot negotiate a settlement. You can settle an insurance claim through negotiations, as well as during a civil lawsuit. Negotiations start when your attorney submits a reasonable offer for compensation. The insurance adjuster or the lawyer representing the defendant either accepts the initial offer or sends it back as rejected. Several rounds of counter offers can follow until both sides reach a settlement or decide to take the next step in the process.
Calculates a Reasonable Value for Compensation
One of the most common reasons why a slip and fall case takes a long time to resolve concerns the submission of an unreasonable value for compensation. To calculate a fair value for compensation, your slip and fall attorney adds up all the tangible costs associated with your case, such as the value of diagnostic tests and treatment programs. You also have the right to receive compensation for non-monetary damages, which are often the costs associated with pain and suffering. Your personal injury lawyer has to be careful not to overvalue the costs associated with pain and suffering.
Submit Convincing Evidence
Another key to settling a slip and fall case quickly involves submitting persuasive evidence. If you slipped and fell inside a business, your attorney should be able to retrieve the footage shot by a security camera. Submission of the copies of medical bills proves what types of injuries you sustained, as well as the monetary value attached to diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating your injuries. Your personal injury lawyer also presents witness statements, which judges and insurance adjusters typically refer to as support for the physical evidence submitted during a civil trial or with an insurance claim.
Get the legal support you deserve by contacting one of our experienced personal injury attorneys to resolve your slip and fall case quickly.
5 Situations When Calling a Personal Injury Lawyer is Important
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 31 million Americans receive medical care each year as a result of an accidental injury. The injuries range in severity from relatively minor cuts and bruises to significant trauma such as head injuries and fractured bones. Victims of accidental injuries work with personal injury lawyers to recover from the financial losses generated by medical bills.
Trying to recover from the financial losses generated by an accidental injury or injuries reason is the most common reason why victims seek the legal support of a state-licensed personal injury lawyer. What are the five other situations when calling a personal injury lawyer is important?
Filing an Insurance Claim
In the days following a personal injury incident, you can expect the adjuster processing your insurance claim to try settling the claim as quickly as possible. Insurance adjusters follow the motto of “pay as little as possible” when dealing with accident claims. If you do not receive the legal support of an experienced personal injury lawyer, the insurance adjuster processing your claim might try to take advantage of you.
A personal injury lawyer collects the physical evidence you need to receive compensation, such as acquiring copies of your medical bills. The official incident report represents an important document that substantiates your insurance claim. For example, if you slip and fall at a convenience store, the manager’s incident report becomes an integral part of the physical evidence.
Injuries Caused By a Defective Product or Medical Provider
If you sustained one or more injuries caused by a defective product or medical provider, a team of attorneys representing a large company works hard to defend their client against any liability claims. They might aggressively defend their client by disputing your credibility and/or delaying any legal proceedings regarding the case. Without a personal injury attorney to represent you, the chances of you receiving compensation dramatically decline.
Negotiate a Settlement
The insurance company processing your claim or the defendant in a personal injury lawsuit might come out of the gate willing to discuss a financial settlement. If this is the situation, you need the legal services of a persuasive negotiator to represent you during the back-and-forth sessions.
A personal injury lawyer submits a reasonable offer for compensation, which the other party either accepts or rejects. If the other party rejects the initial offer, you can expect to receive a counteroffer or a letter requesting that the case move to the next step in the legal or insurance claim process. Several counteroffers can follow the initial offer until both parties agree to a settlement or decide to take the case to the next phase.
Case Goes to Trial
It seems like a no-brainer, but might be surprised to learn about the large number of plaintiffs in personal injury cases who represent themselves during a civil lawsuit that seeks monetary damages. If it looks like your case is moving to the trial phase of the civil lawsuit process, you should receive the support of a personal injury attorney who has successfully litigated similar cases. A skilled litigator knows how to persuade the judge hearing the case to take your side, as well as convincingly present the physical evidence that you need to win a favorable judgment.
In addition, a personal injury attorney files a civil lawsuit before the expiration of the statute of limitations, which for most states runs between two and four years.
Appealing Your Case or Claim
If your insurance claim and/or civil lawsuit reaches the appeals stage of the process, a personal injury attorney helps you navigate through the process until you receive just compensation. You might have to submit more compelling physical evidence, as well as present a stronger argument that you deserve just compensation for your injuries and other financial obligations caused by a personal injury incident. If you did not seek legal support before the appeals stage, a personal injury attorney can reverse a negative decision made by a judge or insurance adjuster.