Pursuing a claim for personal injuries is very much a collaborative effort. You and your attorney will be working closely together throughout the case. As a result, at the very inception of the case, it will be important for you to not only tell your attorney anything and everything about the claim, but also to provide your attorney critical information in your possession.
Much of the information your lawyer will need to pursue your claim successfully is in your sole possession and control. To ensure that it is not lost or deleted, it is important to collect this information and provide it to your attorney as early as your first consultation.
What Documents, Information and Materials Does An Attorney Need To Pursue A Personal Injury Claim?
We recommend that you collect the following documents and information and provide them to your attorney if you plan to pursue a personal injury case:
A Complete Copy of Your Insurance Contract, Including The “Declarations Page”
This can provide your attorney with critical information regarding other possible sources of insurance coverage.
A Copy of the Police Accident Report
Although your attorney can serve a request for the report, it is always quicker and easier for the client to obtain it themselves. Often you may simply call the office of the responding police department and request a copy. That report will provide your attorney with details concerning the other driver, their insurance company, witnesses, and other critical information concerning how the accident occurred, and if the police reached any conclusion as to its cause.
Find out how to obtain a copy of a police accident report in New York State here.
Information About The Other Parties Involved in the Accident
If you have ever been involved in an accident, chances are that you may have exchanged insurance information with the other driver. At times, drivers simply exchange names, phone numbers, and license plates. All of this can be very useful information for your attorney.
Photographs and Documentation of the Accident, Damages and/or Injuries
In best case scenarios, drivers take photos of the cars before they have been moved from the accident scene. Otherwise, if your vehicle has not been repaired, take photos of the damages to the vehicle. In addition, photos that depict injuries can be very helpful to demonstrate the injuries and conditions that existed soon after the accident.
It is important not only to print the photos, but if they were taken on a phone, not to delete them before consulting with your attorney. Those photos may contain unseen “metadata” that can be very useful.
Medical Provider Information
Prepare a list of the names and addresses of every medical provider you have seen. This information will allow your attorney to understand your injuries, and provide critical information necessary for obtaining your medical records.
Copies of Bills or Invoices Related to Medical Expenses
These can help your attorney ensure that you are reimbursed for any medical expenses you’ve incurred as a result of the accident.
Documentation Regarding Any Lost Time From Work
If you have missed work as a result of your involvement in an accident, be sure to provide documentation of this to your attorney. This will help your lawyer to pursue compensation for your lost wages and lost time at work.
Social Media Posts Related to the Incident
We always recommend that clients do not post anything on social media platforms about your accident or injuries. If you have already done so, it is equally important that you do not delete it. Rather, print those posts and statements, and provide them to your attorney.
You can learn more about social media accounts and personal injury case litigation here.
Partner With A Personal Injury Attorney You Can Trust
When it comes to collecting the necessary documents and materials following your accident, having an experienced personal injury attorney by your side can help immensely. If you have been injured in an accident, it is important to contact an attorney right away. He or she can guide you, helping to ensure that you have collected all of the documents and materials necessary to pursue your case as effectively as possible.
Injured in Albany, Johnstown, Saugerties, Amsterdam, Catskill, Gloversville, Hudson or elsewhere in New York State? When it comes to pursuing a personal injury case, turn to the attorneys at Maynard, O’Connor, Smith & Catalinotto. Our experienced team can assist you in promptly collecting information, and taking necessary steps to protect your legal interests. We can help you pursue your case and obtain the compensation you deserve following an accident caused by the negligence of another individual.
With locations in Albany, Saugerties and Johnstown, we are a convenient choice for individuals throughout New York State. Give us a call today at (800) 721-3553 or request a free case review online. We can help you determine if you have a case and, if you do, help you pursue it so you recover the compensation you are entitled to.
Looking for other information about what to expect when it comes to pursuing a personal injury claim? The following resources are a good place to start:
Will My Personal Injury Case Go To Trial? – Wondering if your case will have to go to trial in order to get you the compensation you’re seeking? The choice is ultimately up to you. Learn about alternative options so you know what to expect when it comes to reaching a settlement.
How to Find The Right Personal Injury Lawyer To Represent You – Choosing a lawyer can be challenging, but having an experienced attorney on your side can benefit you greatly when it comes to pursuing compensation. Read tips for finding a personal injury lawyer that’s a good fit for you.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in 2016, but has been updated as of December 2018.
