Personal injuries can happen due to a variety of causes. Impacts you suffer can prevent you from working while resulting in hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical expenses. In the majority of cases, it is the reckless actions of others that are to blame. Why should you have to pay for something that was not your fault? You may be entitled to compensation in a claim and gathering evidence helps ensure you get the amount you deserve.
Gathering Evidence at the Scene
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), accidental injuries cause close to 30 million people to visit hospital emergency rooms each year. Among the most common causes include car, motorcycle, bike, and pedestrian accidents, slips, trips, or falls, and getting struck by or against objects.
While attributed as ‘accidents’, the negligent actions of others are generally responsible. As a result, you may be entitled to compensation. To protect your rights in a claim, it is important to gather the following information at the scene:
- Accident reports: Notify the police or on-site security immediately so that an accident report can be filed.
- Names of those involved: Get the names, contact numbers, and insurance information for anyone who may have played a role in the incident.
- Names of witnesses: Get the names and contact information of all witnesses at the scene. In addition to their testimony, they may have taken videos or pictures as it happened.
- Photos of the scene and your damages: Use your cell phone to take your own photos or videos as well. Get someone to help if you are unable to do so.
Jot down the extract location of the accident and the time it occurred. Our Oregon personal injury attorneys can use this information in locating any video footage from nearby stores or traffic surveillance tapes.
Evidence of Personal Injuries You Suffered
When even a minor accident happens, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Many potentially serious conditions have symptoms that take days or even weeks to fully appear. Not doing so could jeopardize your health, as well as your rights in filing a claim.
Whether you seek compensation through an insurance company or the Multnomah County Civil Court, you need to gather as much information as you can about your injuries and the impacts you suffer as a result. This includes:
- Medical records for hospitals and other providers;
- Results of any diagnostic testing;
- Statements from your doctor, regarding your prognosis;
- Receipts for medical expenses, including any medical devices and medications you require.
- Receipts for lost wages;
- Statements from your employer and loved ones detailing the effect your injuries have on your daily life and ability to perform certain tasks.
Let Us Help You Today
At the Johnston Law Firm P.C., we can help you gather the evidence needed to get the compensation in a personal injury claim. To request a consultation, call (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland personal injury attorneys online today.