Car accidents are terrible experiences. Even when you walk away with only minor damages, the aftermath can scar you physically, mentally, and emotionally for many years to come. Too many people make the mistake of not seeking medical attention and then suffering quietly for the rest of their lives. And by the time you delay medical attention or fail to maintain records, it’s too late to get help.
Following a car accident, you should always seek medical attention for injuries. But after that, you also want to be sure you are maintaining the appropriate records to support a legal case if needed.
A Fort Wayne car accident lawyer will be able to help you navigate the legal system through this process. Follow these steps to learn more about what to do!
Select an Experienced Fort Wayne Car Accident Lawyer
You should reach out to a Fort Wayne car accident lawyer as quickly as possible following your accident. Dealing with insurance companies, sifting through paperwork, and working through the aftermath of an accident are challenging enough. The process can be intimidating and overwhelming.
An experienced lawyer can help. You’re not in this alone. You should rely on the experts to work through the details with you and help attain the compensation you deserve.
Gather and Maintain Records
Should this case proceed to court, it will be your and your attorney’s responsibility to produce proof of the other party’s liability. This proof should include injuries as well as damages to your personal property (like your car). Every piece of documentation along the way should be safely stored and kept together to support the case.
These are some things you should keep in case you need them.
Police Report
Every injury accident will have a police report that shares any of their investigation as well as the details of the accident. This report is unbiased, with a detailed explanation of the circumstances. The report may also include witness statements, contact information, and other important details for the case.
Car Repairs
If your vehicle sustained damages, you need to contain all records for repairs. You should be able to receive compensation for these damages. Keep invoices, bills, and documentation of repairs, as well as any statements from your insurance company.
Photos
If you can take photos of the accident scene, take the time to do so. Then print those photos and add them to the records you are keeping. This can help document the scene, document evidence, and even make your case more credible in some cases.
Medical Records
If you sustained injuries, it is important to keep every detail of your medical records. This includes any medical expenses, copays, doctor’s bills, and charges for any services provided for the related injury. These expenses should be tracked and maintained until fully recovered. This can also include long-term disabilities, as well as future loss of income or quality of life.
Employment or Income
Injuries could cause wages and employment to be affected. It is critical to keep track of any lost wages from missed work, as well as lost wages from being unable to return to work. Keep W2s, paystubs, bank statements, and any other associated documents.
Organize These Records
As you maintain your records, keep them tidy and organized to help avoid any confusion with the data. Keeping it organized makes it easier for all parties to review and understand expenses.
- Keep things in chronological order for a timeline purpose
- Be able to refer to these documents for calculating loses
- Separate into categories for wages, medical, car repairs, etc.
- Keep documentation readily available, but also safe
We also recommend keeping a journal so that nothing gets missed. This journal can help detail emotional trauma or pain and suffering, which may also be eligible for compensation.
Use an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
When you or a loved one are dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, you need someone you can trust. Hire an experienced Fort Wayne car accident lawyer to help you navigate the legal system. An experienced lawyer is your best bet for getting the compensation that you deserve.
