What Proof Do Attorneys for Auto Accidents Seek to Boost Their Cases?
There’s no such thing as useless information in an auto accident case. Even the smallest shred of evidence could make the difference between an out-of-court settlement and a tedious courtroom battle. But what evidence could support a personal injury claim? Ultimately, the answer depends on your situation, along with what information is available.
When you hire an auto accident lawyer, they can conduct an accident scene investigation to find supporting evidence. They may pull county records, interview eyewitnesses, and consult with accident reconstruction specialists to glean insight into your case’s details.
Auto Accident Evidence an Injury Attorney Could Use in Your Case
Every personal injury case has one thing in common: supporting evidence. You need information to prove the cause of your accident and who’s responsible. Evidence could also validate the amount of financial compensation you request from the liable party.
Supporting legal proof in car accidents could include:
The Police Report
Florida law stipulates that if you were involved in a car accident that resulted in serious injuries, death, or property damage exceeding a certain monetary amount, you must file a police report.
Sometimes called the “accident report,” this document contains vital information about the collision, including its date, time, and who was involved. The responding officer may have also jotted down notes about the other driver’s state of mind, such as whether they drove while intoxicated.
Eyewitness Testimony
Your personal injury attorney may interview people who saw the accident happen. Their insight can lend clarity into what occurred and who was responsible. First responders and healthcare professionals can also write and submit witness statements.
Accident Scene Photos
A picture tells a thousand words, and the same applies to photos of auto accidents. These images can highlight the severity of your condition, the extent of your vehicle’s damage, and other financial losses you incurred.
Traffic Camera Footage
Many intersections in Florida have traffic cameras. Your attorney can work to obtain surveillance footage that shows how the accident happened. If you suffered injury in a hit-and-run accident, video evidence could help police track down the negligent driver.
Accident Reconstruction Data
Your auto accident case could involve disputes over who (or what) caused the collision. In that instance, your lawyer may consult with accident reconstruction specialists and get their perspective on what they think happened. These professionals use physics, math, and computer simulations to learn how auto crashes happen.
Your car accident lawyer wants to recover everything you need to account for past, present, and anticipated losses. To learn what constitutes a fair value for your economic losses (such as medical bills), your lawyer will review medical records, invoices, and other documentation. They may also review your employment records and car repair estimates.
The items listed above are just some pieces of evidence that could bolster your personal injury claim or lawsuit. Your attorney may use other information to supplement your case and compel damages from the responsible party.
How Else Could an Injury Lawyer Strengthen Your Auto Accident Case?
Gathering evidence is just one of many duties that go into building a successful personal injury claim. To recover fair compensation for damages, your lawyer will also:
- Review the liable insurance policy. Although you must carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage if you live in Florida, per Florida Statutes § 627.736, this might not be enough to fully cover your losses. Your lawyer will explore other avenues (such as filing a third-party injury claim) to seek what you need. More than one insurance policy could account for your losses.
- Handle all case-related communications. The insurance provider may ask for a recorded statement immediately after your collision, hoping to catch you off-guard. Then, they may ask some “loaded” questions to jeopardize your case. Your lawyer will handle all case-related emails, text messages, and phone calls, protecting your rights.
- Put your best interest first. When you hire a car accident lawyer, they don’t work for the insurance company; they work for you. That means they do everything in their power to recover maximum compensation for what you need––including for losses you haven’t even incurred yet (like anticipated healthcare costs).
You Benefit From Promptly Securing Legal Representation After a Crash
Your lawyer could have compelling evidence that irrefutably points to another party’s liability. Yet, none of that matters if you don’t file your lawsuit within the state’s statute of limitations. Per Florida Statutes § 95.11, you have just two years to file your auto accident lawsuit. Waiting too long to file your case could make some pieces of evidence irretrievable.
Also, the court system refuses to hear personal injury lawsuits filed outside the applicable deadline. By promptly securing legal representation, you can ensure your case gets heard and preserve your right to damages.
Begin Your Free Legal Consultation With Our Auto Accident Law Firm
The journey to financial compensation after a motor vehicle accident starts with a free case review. The Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato has more than 70 years of combined legal experience helping injured people secure financial justice. Not only can we gather the evidence needed to strengthen your case, but we can handle its other obligations, from negotiating with the insurer to advocating for you in court. Remember: you have a limited time under the state’s statute of limitations to initiate legal action, so we encourage you to explore your options today. Dial (954) 633-8270 to begin.
