One of the most important aspects of a successful personal injury case is having the necessary documentation to prove liability and the extent of your injuries. At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., our skilled personal injury attorneys can guide you through the process, from gathering the necessary evidence to filing your claim and negotiating a settlement. We will help you understand your rights and ensure that your best interests are represented throughout the entire process.
Types of Documents Needed for Your Personal Injury Claim
The first step in filing a personal injury claim is to gather all necessary documents. Depending on the type of claim and other factors, the documents you will need can vary. Generally, you will need the following documents:
Initial Emergency Room Records
Immediately after your accident or injury, you likely sought medical attention. The records from your emergency room visit, including the diagnosis, treatment, and any medications prescribed, are crucial in proving the extent of your injuries.
Ongoing Medical Treatment
Keep track of all medical treatment you receive related to your injury, including doctor’s appointments, specialist visits, physical therapy, and any other related care. These records will help establish a timeline of your injury and show the ongoing effects of the accident.
Police Reports
If the police were called to the scene of your accident, they would have created a report detailing the circumstances, witness statements, and any initial conclusions. This report can be invaluable in establishing the facts of the case.
Incident Reports
An incident report may have been created by an employer, business owner, or property manager. This report can provide additional context and details about the accident and the parties involved.
Witness Statements and Contact Information
Witnesses of the accident can provide crucial details and corroborate your account of the events. Collecting their contact information and obtaining written or recorded statements can strengthen your case.
Proof of Lost Income
If your injury caused you to miss work, you will need documentation to show the loss of income. Obtain pay stubs or wage statements from your employer and any documentation of sick leave or disability benefits you may have received.
Additional Expenses
Keep track of any out-of-pocket expenses related to your injury, such as transportation costs, medical equipment, and home modifications. These expenses can be included in your claim to seek compensation.
Photographs and Video Footage
Visual evidence, such as photographs and video footage, can be compelling when establishing liability in a personal injury claim. Be sure to take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
Expert Testimony
In some cases, expert witnesses may be needed to testify about the cause of your injuries, the standard of care that should have been provided, or the long-term effects of your injuries. Your lawyer can help identify and secure the appropriate experts for your case.
Statements From Friends and Family
The people close to you can attest to the changes they have seen in your life since the accident. Their statements can provide a more comprehensive picture of how your injuries have affected you physically and emotionally.
Personal Journal or Diary
Maintaining a personal journal or diary can provide valuable insight into the physical, emotional, and psychological effects of your injuries. Include details about your pain levels, limitations, and the impact of your injuries on your daily activities. To help you build a comprehensive and detailed journal, be sure to include the following information:
Assign a Pain Score
One way to help quantify your pain and suffering is by assigning a numerical score to your pain on a daily basis. Using a scale of 1 to 10, with one being the least severe and ten being the most severe, can provide a simple yet effective way to track the intensity of your pain over time.
Emotional Effects of Your Injury
It is important to document the emotional impact your injuries have had on your life, including any feelings of depression, anxiety, or stress. Be sure to detail how these emotional effects have impacted your relationships, work, and overall well-being.
Therapy Records
If you have sought therapy or counseling to help cope with the emotional effects of your injury, be sure to obtain records of your sessions. These records can provide additional evidence of the psychological toll of your injuries on your life and help substantiate your claims for pain and suffering.
Obtaining and Storing Your Personal Injury Documents
In most cases, you can request copies of your medical records directly from the healthcare providers who treated you. Request these records as soon as possible, as it may take some time to process.
Create a system to store and organize your personal injury documents, including both physical copies and digital files. This will make it easier to access the information when needed and ensure you have all the necessary documentation when speaking with a lawyer.
Work With a Personal Injury Lawyer to Strengthen Your Case
You can have all of the documentation you need to build your case, but without qualified legal counsel, you may not be able to get the compensation you deserve. A lawyer can help you get the best outcome by providing services such as:
Evaluating Your Documentation
Not only can they assist in reviewing your documentation, but they can also help identify any gaps or inconsistencies and advise you on the best course of action to gather additional evidence if needed.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are often focused on minimizing their financial exposure. Working with a lawyer shows you are serious about your claims and help negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf, using your documentation to support your claims and secure the compensation you deserve.
Preparing for Trial
If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will use your documentation to build a strong case and present it effectively in court. They can also help you prepare for any testimony you may need to provide. How well a plaintiff is prepared can make all the difference in the outcome of a trial. You certainly do not want to go it alone.
Get First-Class Representation Now With Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C.
The documentation process can be complex and time-consuming, but it is essential to securing a successful outcome in your personal injury case. Without it, you may be unable to prove your case and get the compensation you deserve.
At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., our skilled personal injury lawyers are here to help make sure you have the evidence you need to prove your case. We are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve, no matter how complex your case may be. Contact us at (215) 822-7575 or complete our contact form today to schedule a free case evaluation or learn more about our services.
