Car Accident Lawyer
You’ve been in a car accident and want compensation for vehicle repairs as well as medical expenses. In many cases, litigation is an appropriate path forward. Other times, it is impossible to pursue a claim. Numerous factors determine whether it makes sense to sue. Here are a few that are worth considering.
Negligence
Central to any vehicular lawsuit is the assignment of blame. If you caused the accident, a judge is unlikely to rule in your favor. Under circumstances where another party is at fault, there are decent odds that your argument will be well received. Make certain that you know exactly why the other driver remains responsible for your damages.
Documentation
Being able to prove fault requires evidence. If you took photos and video of the scene, you are in a much better position than if you failed to do so. Your car may have dashcam footage showing what happened, or perhaps surveillance film from a nearby home, business, or traffic cam was captured. Secure these recordings if they exist. It is also essential that you collect information about the individual you are suing, including the driver’s name, address, and vehicle information.
Eyewitnesses
It helps when others are able to corroborate your version of events. If there were bystanders who agree with your recollection of what happened, gather their testimony. You can record them immediately after the accident, or have an attorney get in touch with them later to perform an interview, then give their statements to the officer in charge of the report. The declarations of uninvolved individuals can be extremely powerful.
Treatment
Your case will be strengthened if you seek medical care after being struck. Get checked by a doctor even if you feel fine; you may have internal damage that is yet to become obvious. Save every document generated from your hospital visit, including diagnosis, treatment recommendations, and receipts. Follow your doctor’s orders to the letter. Failing to adhere to these instructions will likely decrease your odds of success in court.
Communication
It’s possible that your words could come back to bite you. For instance, statements made to insurance companies in an attempt to get them to pay could be used to dispute damages or liability. Similarly, what you write online may prove problematic to your case. Refrain from posting anything on social media that relates to forthcoming litigation.
