Personal-injury cases are complex legal proceedings, and even if negligence seems obvious, recovering compensation can be an uphill battle. Without the right evidence, it can be difficult to tie an injury to a particular accident, or to prove that the at-fault party is liable for damages.
If you were injured in an accident that another driver caused, then you should not settle until discussing your case with a personal-injury attorney. Insurance companies try to get people to settle for as little money as possible, but a lawyer can quantify the damages and fight for the maximum compensation.
If your accident happened in Georgia, then a Marietta car wreck attorney can evaluate your case, handle settlement negotiations and, if necessary, litigate your case if it goes to trial. Call the Crosson Law Group, L.L.C. at 678-909-0770 to schedule a consultation.
In the meantime, read on to learn seven ways you can make your claim stronger:
- Get a copy of the police report.
Your case requires evidence to prove liability, and the police report may do just that. It may also give your attorney more bargaining power during settlement negotiations.
- Obtain medical records.
Injuries form the basis of personal-injury claims, making it essential that you see a doctor as soon as possible. Your attorney will use the medical record, among other evidence, to quantify damages for health-care costs.
- Do not hide pre-existing injuries.
If you have pre-existing injuries, then it is important that you disclose them. Even if the accident did not cause a new injury, you still may be entitled to compensation if it aggravated an old one.
- Be careful about what you say.
The aftermath of a car accident can be stressful; however, it is imperative that you do not inadvertently implicate yourself. Choose words wisely, and do not say anything that others may consider an admission of guilt.
- Gather witness information.
You should contact every person that witnessed the accident. Their testimonies may strengthen your claim.
- Compile as much evidence as possible.
If you are physically able to do so, then gather all the evidence that you can from the scene of the accident. Return later if you were too injured to investigate. Take photographs, and keep any torn clothes or accident debris that you can find.
- Secure all evidence.
Well-kept records will greatly influence the calculation of damages. Ensure that all documents are safe from theft or loss. These include records of lost income, medical bills and days off work.
One of the biggest mistakes that car accident victims make is settling with the insurance company before contacting an attorney. Even if the settlement seems fair, you may have ongoing medical expenses if your injuries do not heal as expected. In particular, you should never settle until you have no pain and your injuries have healed completely.
If you were injured due to another driver’s negligence in Georgia, then the Crosson Law Group, L.L.C. may be able to help. Call us today at 678-909-0770 to discuss your options with a car accident lawyer.