If you’ve been hurt in a car accident and you’re planning on pursuing a personal injury claim, it’s important to know exactly what it takes to create a solid case. With these tips, you can protect your right to seek compensation and fight for the fair settlement you deserve.

Gather Relevant Evidence
If possible, document the accident scene before you leave by taking photographs or videos. Be sure to capture the location of the vehicles, skid marks, traffic signs, and any other relevant details. This visual evidence can help reconstruct the accident and determine fault, and this is your only time to capture it—by the time you’re able to return to the scene, it will be cleaned up.

Get a copy of the police report created at the scene of the accident. This document typically includes important details like the parties involved, witness statements, and the officer’s assessment of fault. It will also generally include any citations given out or arrests made at the scene.

Collect all medical records related to your injuries. This includes hospital records, diagnostic tests, treatment plans, and bills. These records prove the extent and nature of your injuries.

In some cases, there may be surveillance footage or dashcam recordings that captured the accident. Get this footage as soon as possible, since it can give a neutral analysis of what happened. You should know, though, that footage tends to disappear after a certain timeframe. It’s either deleted to make space or overwritten by newer footage. Getting a copy should be a top priority.

Document Everything
To build a strong auto accident case, it’s crucial to document the damages and injuries you suffered as a result of the accident. This demonstrates the impact of the accident on your life and supports your personal injury claim. Keep records of all repairs made to your vehicle, or if you’re waiting for a settlement to make repairs, get an estimate for the cost of repairs. This helps establish the property damage caused by the accident.

Maintain detailed records of every type of treatment you receive. This includes doctor’s visits, hospital stays, surgery, rehabilitation, and therapy. Document all of the accident-related medical expenses you incur, such as medical bills, prescription costs, and transportation expenses.

You may also want to keep a journal or record detailing the physical pain, emotional distress, and lifestyle changes resulting from your injuries. This documentation can provide evidence of the widespread losses you have experienced.

Talk to Eyewitnesses
Witness testimonies can significantly strengthen your auto accident case by providing objective accounts of the incident. At the scene, identify individuals who witnessed the accident or arrived at the scene shortly after. This may include bystanders, passengers, or nearby drivers. Note, though, that the testimony of neutral parties tends to be more valuable than the testimony of passengers in either vehicle.

Get the contact information of potential witnesses, including their names and phone numbers, before you leave the scene. It is far harder to track someone down after the fact. This allows your attorney to reach out to them for statements or testimony.

Work With an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
Building a strong auto accident case requires the guidance and expertise of an experienced attorney. An auto accident attorney in Washington DC has in-depth knowledge of the relevant laws, regulations, and legal procedures affecting your case. They can help you navigate the complexities of your case and ensure that your rights are protected.

Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident. They may gather evidence, analyze police reports, and review medical records. They will use this information to evaluate the strength of your case and identify the best legal strategies to pursue.

From there, your attorney will represent your interests during negotiations with insurance companies. They will advocate for a fair settlement and provide evidence linking the insurance company’s client to your injuries and subsequent expenses.

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a car accident, it’s time to talk to the team at Kingbird Legal. Call our West Chester, PA office at 484-289-4880 or message us online to set up a free, no-obligation consultation.