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What Information Does My Car Accident Lawyer Need From Me?

The chances of being hurt in a car accident are greater than you might think. Each year, 4.4 million Americans suffer serious injuries because of auto accidents. If you are injured and file a claim, you need some important documents to provide your attorney. This information helps your lawyer understand the specifics of your case and determine what you can recover.

Accident Report

When police respond to an accident scene, they file a report that provides crucial information for a personal injury claim. The incident report gives details, such as location, date, time, traffic conditions, parties involved and witness accounts. Typically, officers diagram the particulars of the scene.

If possible, get the name and badge number of the officer responsible for writing the report. You can later request a copy from the law enforcement agency. A lawyer uses this material to build your case and may seek an independent investigation based on these facts.

Photographs or Videos

Accident photographs provide a reliable record of conditions at the time of an accident. They give an overview of the scene and shed light on details that witness accounts or a police report might not cover. Videos put people at the scene and show actions in real-time. Mobile phones make it easy to document a crash immediately after it occurs.

If other drivers, emergency personnel or police have relevant media, request copies to offer further credibility. Additionally, taking photos of your injuries and your recovery process builds the narrative for your case.

Witness Statements

Witnesses are third parties who provide information about how an accident occurred. Police officers interview witnesses at the scene. You can request these statements as evidence. It is essential to get as many first-hand accounts as possible to support your claim.

Often, a person who saw the accident recalls physical and environmental factors that are useful for your case. Be sure to provide your attorney with any names and phones numbers exchanged at the accident scene.

Vehicle Damage Estimates

As part of an insurance claim, you are entitled to seek vehicle repair costs. Get several estimates from reputable collision repair centers. Insurance companies consider the estimates before deciding how to pay.

In recent years, the cost of parts and repairs versus the value of a car sometimes results in a vehicle being totaled. Your attorney negotiates with the insurance company on your behalf about issues related to property damages and losses, so you receive a fair settlement.

Insurance Policy Verification

Your attorney will need a copy of your vehicle insurance policy and proof of premium payments to defend you in an accident claim. The specifics of your policy affect your insurance recovery. Your premium payment record shows that your policy is paid up, and you can file a claim. An attorney reviews this information for policy exclusions that determine your right to compensation.

Medical Records

Medical records provide a detailed assessment of your injuries and medical treatments. Car accidents can result in debilitating physical outcomes. You need comprehensive medical documentation that includes an assessment of your long-term health prognosis and costs associated with your care. These are important records requests:

  • Emergency room services
  • Hospital admissions
  • Physician
  • Pharmaceutical
  • Specialist care
  • Convalescent care
  • Physical therapy

Many individuals seek chiropractic care for whiplash and other spinal and soft tissue injuries after an accident. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may need to see a doctor several times a week until you begin to heal. Chronic pain sufferers may require extended treatment regimens. Ask your chiropractor for detailed records of treatments and outcomes for an insurance claim or personal injury suit.

Pay Records

You may lose wages as the result of an auto accident. If your work hours have decreased due to your injuries, paystubs provide a record of the change in income. Additionally, if you cannot work, ask your physician to provide a letter with details of your condition and inability to be on the job.

You can use tax returns to verify your income for extended periods. It is also a good plan to give your attorney paperwork that proves your pre-and-post accident income amounts.

Get Legal Help

Fielding Law has experienced personal injury attorneys who know how to represent you when you’ve been injured in an auto accident. Our clients can expect a personalized approach to their case.

We want you to have the best representation possible as a car accident victim. Since our primary focus is on personal injury and auto accident cases, we understand the many issues related to these types of claims. Get started today with a free case evaluation to learn about your rights and legal options.