How to Build a Strong Case
To prove the cause of your motor vehicle collision, there are many types of evidence that you must preserve. Some types of evidence that a car accident lawyer will gather when investigating an auto accident claim include:
- Photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage
- Video footage (if available)
- Physical evidence of the crash site, such as skid mark measurements, photos of road debris, missing signage, video of faulty traffic lights
- Electronic data and other physical evidence from all vehicles involved
- Eyewitness statements
- Accident report/police report
- Medical bills
- Medical records
- Cell phone records
- Expert witness testimony
- If a commercial vehicle was involved, copies of black box data, maintenance records, employment records, driver’s logs, and more.
If you sustained severe injuries in the collision, it can be challenging to gather this evidence yourself. When you hire a car accident lawyer, they can take over the accident investigation, handle the insurance company, and consult with experts to prove liability and your demand for damages.
What Evidence is Needed to Prove Damages?
You will also need evidence to prove the extent of your injuries and other losses. This evidence will be used to calculate the value of your claim. The value of your claim includes economic and noneconomic damages.
Economic damages are out-of-pocket expenses that are related to the collision and your recovery, such as travel expenses, lost wages, medical expenses, personal care, medical equipment, and medications.
Accident victims are also entitled to noneconomic damages, which include mental anguish, physical pain, emotional distress, loss of quality of life, permanent disabilities, and more.
Evidence that can help prove car accident damages include:
- Statements from family and friends
- Medical records
- Medical bills
- Pay stubs and tax returns
- Photos of your injuries
- Photos of vehicle damage
- Vehicle repair estimates
- Statements from treating physicians
Valuing a car accident claim can be difficult. However, a car accident attorney knows what evidence to use and how to use it to maximize the value of your claim.
Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
While you don’t have to hire a car accident lawyer to file a claim, doing so can increase your chances of recovering maximum compensation for your losses. An attorney will help guide you through the claims process, every step of the way.
They will also:
- File paperwork
- Gather and analyze evidence
- Consult with experts
- Assess damages
- Send a demand letter
- Handle all communication with the insurance company
- Negotiate a fair settlement
- File a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement
During this difficult time, they can provide the compassionate legal guidance and support you need, to help you obtain a fair settlement that allows you to move on with your life.
