How To Bolster Your Auto Accident Claim

After being involved in an accident, you may decide to pursue a personal injury claim. If this is the case, you may want to hire an auto accident attorney to assist in the navigation of the claims process, which can be rather complex. The process consists of locating and interviewing eyewitnesses, obtaining testimony from experts, calculating possible damages, negotiating with the other party, and much more. However, before this, the claim must be validated, and you play a role in this part. Here are a few things that you can do to help strength your overall claim.

Identify Potential Witnesses

If there were any nearby motorists, pedestrians, or even storeowners who may have witnessed the accident, ask if they would be able to remain at the accident scene so that they could provide an official statement to the responding officers. If they cannot, see if they would be willing to provide you with their names and contact information so that your attorney can contact them as they start to build your legal claim.

Document the Wreck

Before you leave the scene of the accident, take photos of the scene from every angle. Ensure that you get pictures of the weather conditions and the road, in addition to signals and signs that impact the traffic flow. If you are unable to document the collision while the automobiles are in place, make sure that you get pictures of the damage of each vehicle separately.

Track Your Injuries

It is important that you start taking images of your lacerations, bruises, etc. the day of the accident. You will want to take pictures of them each day—or at minimum every other day—so that you can document their progression and healing. In addition, you should keep a journal for all of your internal injuries that cannot be documented with photographs and how your injuries are impacting your day-to-day life.

Visit a Physician

If you don't require emergency care at the accident scene, you should get to your primary care physician or an urgent care clinic as soon as possible after the collision. It is important to understand that some injuries don't manifest immediately, though they can result in serious complications if they are not treated. So, even if you feel completely fine, seek medical attention. Then, once you receive instructions from a doctor, make sure to follow them so that the other party cannot argue that you are somewhat responsible for the damages that you are pursuing.

For more information, contact an auto accident lawyer in your area.