First 3 Steps to Take in a Personal Injury Case
When you or a loved one has been hurt, the last thing on your mind may be starting a personal injury case. But, when you've been injured, a personal injury lawsuit may be down the line.
Knowing what initial steps to take can help maintain the integrity of the case if you do decide to pursue legal action.
What are some of the initial steps you should take in a personal injury case?
Personal Injury Case Step #1: Write down what happened.
As much as we think that memories last forever, especially painful ones, the truth is that as time goes on our once-sharp memory of the events that occurred may become difficult to recall. Take notes on whatever accident or injury occurred so that you may refer back to your notes in the future.
You should be writing down exactly what happened before, during and after the injury, and everything you remember about it, including who was there. Anything that is important should be written down, including how severe your injuries are.
Personal Injury Case Step #2: Take pictures, and keep evidence secure.
In some cases, there may not be physical evidence for you to actually secure. For example, if the accident occurred because of a defect in the premises, you can't exactly secure an entire floor. Taking photographs of the scene may be necessary - but in this situation, try to recreate the scene so it is accurate to when the accident occurred.
Personal Injury Case Step # 3: Get a police report, if possible.
If police responded to the scene of the injury or accident, try to get a copy of the report. While the police report might not be admissible in a lawsuit, you could use it as a negotiating tactic. After all, you might be able to gain leverage in negotiations with the defendant or with the insurance company with a police report on your side
Whether or not you decide to pursue a personal injury case will ultimately be up to you. But, discussing a potential personal injury lawsuit with a personal injury attorney can be helpful in determining if your case has merit.
Related Resources:
- Have an injury claim? Get your claim reviewed for free. (Consumer Injury)
- Personal Injury Law: The Basics (FindLaw)
- First Steps (FindLaw)
- Car Accident Dos and Don'ts (FindLaw)
- Meeting with an Attorney (FindLaw)