When you get into a car accident, it is pertinent to take a series of steps to ensure the proper documentation is collected to prove your case. In order for a car insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit to succeed, you will require sufficient evidence for the damage or loss incurred.
At Ivy Law Firm, P.C, we recommend gathering the following documents and information, to ensure you will be properly compensated:
Police Report
If unfortunately, you’re involved in a car accident, a police officer will most likely come to the scene. Normally, at the scene of the accident or afterward, the police officer prepares an accident report. This report contains significant information regarding the accident. These could include:
- Traffic violations
- Observations made by the responding officer
- Potential causes of the accident
- Witness statements
- Details of injury
All these pieces of information will be vital in your insurance claim or lawsuit. You can obtain a copy of this police report by contacting the law enforcement office and giving them either the details of the accident (date, location) or by mentioning the name and badge number of the officer at the scene.
Personal Notes
While the police officer is most likely going to jot down accurate information at the scene, there is a possible chance that they could miss out on an important piece of information. In order to avoid such a situation, it is recommended to personally gather information yourself at the scene of the accident that you could possibly present in the future if the need were to arise. These should include:
- License plates
- Insurance details of other drivers involved
- Location of accident
- Photographs from the scene
- Name and badges of officers at the scene
- Notes on personal and car injuries
Medical Records
If an accident results in unfortunate injuries and a visit to the hospital, it is important that you acquire copies of those records. In order to be completely thorough, you should keep medical copies from every step of your treatment process. This can begin with emergency medical services such as ambulances, emergency room treatment, possible hospital admission and treatment, and any later checkups with your primary healthcare provider.
If your primary healthcare provider prescribes any prescriptions or tests for the purpose of diagnosis, keep a hold of those records too. When attempting to gain compensation for your medical injuries, you will require detailed evidence and details, so it is advised to be prepared beforehand.
Proof of Income
If due to the injuries sustained in the car accident, you are not able to go to work, you will most likely be compensated for the loss of income. In order to be compensated, however, you will have to show evidence of the claimed losses. Keep track of your pay stubs, bank deposit records, or any other financial statements that can clarify the payment loss due to the accident.
Insurance Information
In the case of an accident, your insurance policy is vital information. Gather all insurance documentation that signifies you have paid the necessary premiums on the policy. Your insurance documents will help your attorney classify what kind of coverage you are liable for.
We Can Help You Get Compensated
At Ivy Law Firm, P.C, we are committed to providing you with the best possible service to ensure all your losses are thoroughly compensated. We can make the process easier for you. Contact Ivey Law Firm today at 888-335-0015 or fill out the form below.