Getting injured can be a traumatic ordeal that leaves your head spinning, and in the immediate aftermath of an accident, you may feel quite overwhelmed and wonder if you could have a personal injury case. The fact is that a hospital visit be very costly, but you also run the risk of suffering in your career or failing to meet your expenses because of the time off work. The life-altering consequences of a serious injury are the reason many people choose to file a personal-injury lawsuit as a result. However, before you go through the trouble of pursuing this option, you need to make sure that you have a case.
You most likely have a legitimate claim if:
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Your injury occurred as a direct result of the choices of another party.
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You’ve had your injuries documented by a medical professional.
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You’ve collected witnesses who can testify that your injury occurred due to recklessness or negligence.
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You can show that your injury caused you to suffer physically, emotionally or financially.
1. Seek Medical Help Immediately
Even if your injury isn’t severe or life threatening, you still need to see a doctor as soon as possible. If you wait too long, it could always be argued that you received the injury in some other way, which will severely damage your case. Have a physician diagnose your injury so you have proof of it on paper, and be sure to keep records of all your medical treatments and expenses.
2. Collect Witnesses
Depending on the nature of your accident, there may not have been anyone around to witness what occurred. However, if there was, it’s a good idea to track them down and ask them for a statement regarding what they saw. Third-party accounts are important because the victim of an accident is often too upset to remember things clearly. Even one credible witness will do a lot for your case.
3. Gather Other Evidence
Pictures are as good as witnesses when it comes to proving your case. For example, if you slipped and fell because of a wet floor, try your best to get a picture that demonstrates the lack of a warning sign. If you don’t have a picture, the person you are suing could always claim that there was a sign, and you just didn’t see it. Also be sure to take pictures of your injuries from all different angles.
On top of photographs, be sure to document any loss of income, emotional disturbances or other hardships you suffered as a result of your injury.
If you need help figuring out whether or not you have a personal-injury case, contact San Diego Personal Injury Attorneys for a FREE evaluation.