• March 13, 2019
• CMZ Law
• no comments

If you have been involved in a car crash that was the fault of someone else, you may be able to obtain compensation for your losses related to the accident. However, getting compensated for your damages or losses is not automatic. You must present and prove your case to show the court (or an insurance company) that you are entitled to relief. This process can take considerable time and effort, and failing to show just one element of your claim can completely undermine your case.

It is critical to take the time to collect evidence and information regarding your accident as soon as you can after the collision occurs. The data you gather (with the help of your auto accident attorney) will allow you to present the best possible case that you can. It is a good idea to take the following steps to help preserve your claim after a car accident.

Information to Gather at the Scene

In severe accidents, you may not be able to collect much information at all after the collision occurs. You should always be sure to take care of yourself from a medical standpoint before worrying about your legal claim—your health and safety are the top priorities.

If you can, however, you should spend some time gathering evidence from the scene of the accident.

Photograph the Scene. Using a camera or phone, take photos of the site, including the road where the accident occurred, pictures of the vehicles involved, and any damage that may have occurred. Pictures of your visible injuries may also be a good idea. Be sure to have some method of indicating when you took the photos, whether you have a date on them or you write it down somewhere else.

Talk to Witnesses. Witnesses that have seen or even heard the accident can be very helpful for your case. If possible, speak with witnesses to see what they experienced from the crash. Be sure to also get their name and contact information as well.

Involve the Police

Having the police at the scene can be helpful for a variety of reasons. If the other person did something that may have been a violation of the law, involving the police may result in a citation for the other driver.

The police also provide an unbiased opinion about what happened after listening to both sides of the story. The police will document what they know about the accident in the police report. This report will also contain information about the other driver, his or her insurance company, and information about any witnesses.

Get Medical Attention

Even if your accident was relatively minor, it is a good idea to seek medical attention after an accident. Getting medical help right away can create helpful documentation regarding causation for your injuries.

Some insurance companies assume that you are not seriously injured if you do not seek medical attention. Be sure to also take care to follow the doctor’s orders as closely as possible. If you have restrictions on your activities, you should follow those restrictions to the letter.

Involve an Attorney

One of the best ways that you can prepare your case is by involving a personal injury attorney. Your lawyer will be able to help you build your case so you can present it in the best light possible to an insurance company or a judge or jury. CMZLaw can help. Contact us today!