About six million car crashes occur across the US each year. As a result, 90 people die in car collisions every day. About three million are injured, while two million sustain permanent injuries. If you were recently in an auto accident, don’t hesitate to call for help. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you file a lawsuit. Winning your car accident case can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
In order to win your auto accident case, you’ll need the proper evidence to strengthen your claim. Read on to discover how you can build your car accident case today.
File a Police Report
How you react immediately after a car accident can impact your car collision case in the future. First, make sure to move to a safe area near the scene of the crash. Don’t leave the scene until after the police clear you to leave.
In some states, you’re legally obligated to file a police report. If you’re uncertain of your local laws, call to cover your bases. Filing a police report can help build your car accident case.
While you wait for the police to arrive, avoid unnecessary small talk with the other party involved in the crash. Don’t speak out of anger, either. Anything you say could impact your case in the future.
Instead, calmly ask the other driver for their:
- Name
- Phone number
- Address
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance information
- Car make, model, and year
When speaking with the other driver, don’t assign blame. Don’t apologize for the accident, either. Otherwise, they might view your apology as an admission of guilt.
Consider writing down your recollection of what happened before the police arrive. It’s normal to forget specific details after a crash.
Note where you were going, what direction you were headed in, and any road conditions that might have contributed to the crash.
When the police arrive to take your statement, stick to the facts. Don’t embellish.
The police will record any property damage, injuries, or deaths that occurred as a result of the crash. They might also file a traffic citation. The traffic citation might indicate who was at fault for the crash.
For example, perhaps the driver was texting and driving or driving while under the influence. If there’s evidence of these factors, the police will record it in their report.
Ask the police for their name and badge number before they leave. Ask them for a copy of their report, too. If they haven’t finalized the report yet, call later to get a copy.
Gather Evidence
Before leaving the scene of the car accident, gather as much evidence as you can.
First, take photos of both vehicles involved in the crash. Gather video footage as well. You’ll need your photo and video evidence when filing your insurance claim.
Did anyone witness the crash? Ask any witnesses if they’re comfortable providing their names and phone number. Your car collision lawyer will call them later to request an official witness statement.
Let the police know if someone witnessed the crash as well.
If you’re unable to gather evidence after a car accident, let your lawyer know. Your lawyer might hire an investigator to gather evidence on your behalf. They can also request surveillance footage and other pieces of evidence you can’t on your own.
Visit the Doctor
About 4.4 million people are severely injured enough to need medical attention after car collisions. Even if you left the crash with only a few bruises, visit a doctor. Only a doctor can fully assess your health.
Their report can also benefit your car accident case.
Adrenaline might also mask your pain after a car crash. You might not experience symptoms for days or even weeks after a crash. It’s important to have a doctor assess you before your symptoms worsen.
They could catch a serious problem, like internal bleeding, before it becomes fatal.
Allow a medical professional to complete a full evaluation. Note any medications they prescribe or treatments they recommend. Record any specialists (like a chiropractor or pain doctor) they refer you to as well.
Your car collision lawyer will use these notes to prove the other driver’s negligence caused you bodily harm.
Keep track of your medical bills and lost wages as well. Your lawyer will need this evidence to calculate your losses. With their help, you can avoid leaving money on the table.
Remain Wary
Don’t try to negotiate with the insurance company alone. Instead, make sure to call your car collision lawyer right away. Otherwise, the insurance company might use your injured state against you.
If you’re taking pain medication for your injuries, they might trick you into admitting fault. They might try to argue that you sustained your injuries another way, too.
Talking to the insurance company alone could cost you your claim. Instead, let your lawyer handle these negotiations.
Hire an Auto Accident Attorney
Don’t hesitate to hire a car accident lawyer. With their help, you can gather the evidence you need to build your case.
Look for a personal injury lawyer who specializes in car accident cases. You can leverage their experience and expertise to strengthen your claim. An experienced lawyer likely has professional contacts they can use to gather the necessary evidence as well.
For example, they might hire an investigator to gather evidence. They might also call on a medical expert to speak about your injuries.
Make sure to hire a lawyer as soon as possible. If you wait too long, the statute of limitations could lapse.
Make Your Case: Start Building Your Auto Accident Case Today
Don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer the next time you’re in an auto accident. With their help, you can gather the evidence you need for your car collision case. Your lawyer will ensure you don’t leave money on the table.
Fight for the compensation you rightfully deserve today.
Eager to discuss the specifics of your case with a member of our team? We’re here to help.
Request your free consultation today.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.RHINO.77.
