There are various strategies and actions you can take to bolster your claim. From gathering evidence at the scene of the accident to seeking medical treatment and hiring a skilled car accident attorney in Fort Myers, these steps will help you build a strong foundation for your case.
By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome and obtaining the compensation you need to recover.
Obtain a Copy of the Police Report
If the police responded to the accident, be sure to obtain a copy of their report. This official documentation from law enforcement captures important details like who was involved, how the accident occurred, any citations issued, and information on road and weather conditions.
The officer may also diagram how vehicles were positioned. Request this documentation as soon as possible.
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Collect Witness Statements
Witness accounts can corroborate your version of what happened. As people start to leave the scene, politely ask for their names and contact information if they saw the accident occur. Jot down a brief summary of what they observed.
You can then follow up with signed witness statements to include with your claim. Witnesses are an important part of establishing liability.
Document the Scene of the Accident
If it’s safe to do so, take photos of where the collision occurred, showing things like traffic signals, signs, road markings, damage to vehicles or property, and debris. Note the weather and road conditions.
Create a diagram of how the scene appeared, labeling streets and marking where each vehicle came to rest. This documentation paints a picture of what investigators and jurors will later see.
Photograph Damage to Property and Injuries
Thoroughly photograph damage to all vehicles involved, your personal property inside your vehicle, and any visible injuries you sustained. This should be done at the scene if possible for accuracy.
Photos help substantiate claims about the extent of harm and support the value of your vehicles, lost wages, and personal injury damages.
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Keep Track of Medical Treatment & Expenses
Even minor accidents can cause injuries that worsen over time or require expensive treatment. Maintain a log of all doctor visits, prescriptions, medical tests ordered, and bills incurred. Note how you feel physically on each visit and any prognosis given by doctors.
This establishes a timeline of your care directly resulting from the crash. Your recovery expenses are an essential part of your settlement demand.
Calculate a Fair Settlement Amount Based on Damages Incurred
Document all recoverable damages or seek help from a car accident lawyer who can perform a thorough calculation for you. Here are the damages you should consider:
Medical Expenses
Document all out-of-pocket costs for doctor visits, prescriptions, medical tests, surgery, therapy, equipment, etc. incurred from injuries sustained in the accident. This includes both past and estimated future costs.
Property Damage
Note repair estimates or replacement values for your vehicle and any personal property damaged or destroyed in the crash. Photographs help support these valuation figures.
Lost Wages
Keep pay stubs or other proof to substantiate time missed from work and wages lost while unable to perform usual duties due to accident-related injuries.
Pain and Suffering
Place a dollar value on noneconomic damages compensation sought for physical and mental anguish experienced during recovery from accident injuries. Consult an attorney for guidance on a reasonable figure.
Loss of Household Services
If unable to perform usual household duties, calculate estimated costs to hire help with childcare, cleaning, cooking, etc. usually handled yourself.
By thoroughly gathering and preserving evidence related to the accident circumstances, injuries sustained, and financial impact, you bolster the strengths of your car accident case. Solid documentation lays the foundation for obtaining a favorable settlement or court ruling.
However, documenting all of these damages to determine a fair settlement demand figure that reasonably compensates you for losses can be a significant challenge. A car accident lawyer will have the resources to perform a complete evaluation of your losses and can compare your claim to previously settled cases to arrive at an accurate number.
Contact a Car Accident Law Firm to Learn How We Can Help Strengthen Your Claim
Don’t let the complexities of a car accident case overwhelm you. With the right lawyer and proactive approach, you can navigate the legal process with confidence and maximize your chances of success.
By following these steps and seeking the guidance of an experienced car accident attorney, you can strengthen your case and improve your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Remember, time is of the essence, so take action as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure a successful outcome. Contact Viles & Beckman today to learn more about how we may be able to help you in a free case evaluation.
Call or text (239) 334-3933 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form