When filing a personal injury case, your mind is probably going straight to the recoverable damages you will receive. While there’s nothing wrong with fixing your eyes on the goal, it’s crucial to focus on what you need to do to achieve it.
In this setting, you need to strengthen your case to assure your compensation and maximize your case’s value. Here are nine proven ways to help you do just that.
1. Take as Much Evidence as You Can
Act fast and gather as much evidence as you can. We understand that, following a catastrophic accident, confusion prevails. However, it would be best to find your ground and start collecting available evidence immediately.
Take pictures of everything related to the accident, especially the injuries you have suffered. If there are any visible bruises, cuts, or swellings, make sure to document them. Obtain a copy of your medical records if you have to be treated in a hospital.
2. Visit a Doctor After the Accident
Safety is your priority. Even if you believe your injuries are not that serious, it would be best to visit a doctor and get a professional opinion.
Many personal injury victims fail to realize that some injuries might not show symptoms immediately. For instance, you might have suffered internal bleeding or a concussion after a car accident. A medical checkup can help diagnose these injuries.
3. Journal Everything
Documentation of the event is also a piece of evidence. Make sure you write everything down, including how the accident happened, your journey to recovery, and how it has affected your life.
Your journal will come in handy when you have to recall the details of the accident later on. It would be best if you wrote down these details as soon as possible to ensure accuracy.
4. Obtain Written Advice From Your Doctor for Missing Work Days
You’ll probably miss a few days of work following a tragic accident. Because of this, it’s vital to obtain a doctor’s note which you can submit to your employer. The doctor’s note should contain how many days you’ll be missing from work and the expected return date.
If you’re self-employed, keep track of any lost earnings. You will need this information when filing for lost wages.
5. Don’t Accept Any Offers Right Away
It’s common knowledge, but you must refuse to accept any initial settlement offer even if it sounds good. The first offer is rarely the final or the best.
The insurance company will try to give you the lowest possible amount to save on costs. Don’t let them take advantage of you; have a lawyer review any settlement offers before you sign anything.
6. Find a Personal Injury Lawyer
Following the former advice, find a personal injury lawyer. It would be best to look for one as soon as possible. Many lawyers will offer you a free consultation wherein they will assess your case and give you an idea of what to expect.
Additionally, a lawyer can protect you from insurance companies. Most personal injury lawyers will not charge you unless they win your case.
7. Have Your Damages Assessed
Once you have a lawyer hired, they will assess your case and place a value on your recoverable damages. These damages might include lost wages, current and future medical bills, property damage, pain and suffering, and more.
It would be best to have a clear understanding of how much your case is worth before you start negotiating with the insurance company. This way, you can have a goal in mind and not accept anything less than what you deserve.
8. Resist Posting Anything on Social Media
Although it’s tempting to share this unfortunate event of your life, we advise against posting anything related to the accident on social media.
Everything you post on social media is public information, and the insurance company will use this against you. For instance, if you post a picture of yourself doing an adventurous activity after the accident, the insurance company might use it as evidence to refute your claim.
9. Preserve and Back up All Documents
Lastly, keep all documents related to the accident, such as photographs, medical records, correspondence with the insurance company, and more. Keeping an electronic and physical copy of these documents would be best; you never know when you might need them.
Your Case Is as Strong as Your Evidence
The strength of your evidence reflects the strength of your case. So, if you want to improve your personal injury case, follow the tips above. Doing so will give you a better chance of recovering the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Our Daytona Beach Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help
If you are involved in an accident near Daytona Beach, Florida, our personal injury attorneys at Zimmet & Zimmet Attorneys can help. Our legal team has over four decades of experience handling and representing countless Daytona Beach personal injury cases.
Schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys by calling (386) 202-1412 or completing our contact form. We’ll help you solidify your Daytona Beach personal injury case and maximize your recoverable damages.
SOURCES:
- https://attorneyatlawmagazine.com/different-types-of-evidence-that-can-be-used-in-a-personal-injury-case
- Types of Evidence to Present in a Personal Injury Case
- https://www.alllaw.com/articles/nolo/personal-injury/evidence-need-claim.html
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/personal-injury-accidents-preserve-evidence-30018.html
- https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/personal_injury
