Have you been injured in an accident that was not your fault? Perhaps you know that negligence was a factor, but you’re concerned about having evidence or proof that backs up this belief? You might have in your possession photos or copies of your medical records that could help with your defense, but are not sure how to put everything together so that it compliments your case as a whole. This is when the expertise of a skilled personal injury lawyer can benefit you. A good lawyer knows evidence that shows proof beyond a reasonable doubt is crucial for a successful outcome.
This is one of the most important, costly, and time consuming phases of a case. Your lawyer will need to find evidence that defends your own allegations as well as protects you against anything being said from the defending party. In a case that may be going to trial, this is known as the discovery process. The discovery process is typically much more complex than the gathering of evidence required for a claim; however there are some similarities.
Before your personal injury lawyer takes your case to the defending party in search of a settlement, or in front of a jury, he or she may gather evidence by turning to any of the following or more:
Expert Witnesses – Expert witnesses are extremely valuable in a personal injury case. These people have a certain level of skill in a particular field that essentially qualifies them to make an educated opinion about the facts of a case. Doctors, researchers, scientists, lawyers, investigators, and other professionals are a few examples of who could be considered an expert witness.
Accident Witnesses – If there were any credible witnesses who saw what happened, a personal injury lawyer might ask them to make a statement. These statements can help a lawyer piece together what happened just before the accident, or after. They might also help to establish legal responsibility. Not all witnesses may be credible to your claim, the right lawyer should be able to identify this so as not to affect the outcome of your case.
Photographs and Videos – Photos, video footage, surveillance footage, and other recorded data may be highly sought after by a lawyer. This is partly because these things can capture a moment that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. Photos of your injuries and the accident may also help to prove the severity of the accident; thereby, ensure you get maximum compensation.
Private Investigators – For every lawyer needs, there is a private investigator who will be able to support their work. These professionals can help a personal injury lawyer to learn about insurance claims, the defending party’s driving history or work history, whether a person had insurance coverage on a certain date, whether there were complaints against a licensing board, and other background information. A private investigator may also be the right person to find someone who is no longer on the radar.
Assessment of Medical Records – Another way to prove your car accident claim is by carefully assessing your medical records. This will also likely include an evaluation of your current and prospective treatment so that your claim covers all of your medical expenses.
Rest assured, a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer will know how to find the evidence and proof needed to support your claim or lawsuit. To learn more, call a personal injury lawyer Chicago IL residents trust.
Thank you to our contributors and The Law Office of Konrad Sherinian for the above information.