Unfortunately, if you have been seriously injured due to someone else’s negligence, recovering compensation for your damages will be difficult. This is because you will have to fulfill the burden of proof, which takes substantial evidence of negligence. Please continue reading to learn what evidence you should collect to support your personal injury claim and why connecting with a dedicated New York City Personal Injury Lawyer is in your best interest.
Why is it Important to Gather Evidence Following an Accident in NY?
Most injured parties fail to realize the evidence collected at the scene of an accident is the cornerstone in navigating a personal injury claim. It plays a crucial role in establishing liability, which is vital to determine who is responsible for damages. Essentially, the meticulous collection of evidence is paramount to securing your legal rights. The defendant will likely deny that they were responsible for the accident to avoid facing the significant consequences of their actions.
New York is a comparative negligence state, which means that you can still receive compensation if you were partially at fault for the injuries sustained. However, the amount of compensation will be reduced by your degree of fault for the accident. As such, you must demonstrate that you were not negligent in these matters.
What Evidence Do I Need to Support My Personal Injury Claim?
For a successful personal injury claim, you must show that your injuries and financial losses are the results of negligence by the liability party. Following the accident, you should seek immediate medical attention. Not only does this ensure your health but it will record the extent of your injuries. This will provide you with medical records that can help link your injuries to the accident. If you refuse or delay medical care, the defendant may argue that you contributed to the severity of your damages, which will minimize your compensation.
In addition to seeking medical attention, if the police were present at the scene, they would fill out a report. You should request a copy of these records as they will include crucial details about the accident. If your injuries have rendered you unable to work, you should obtain pay stubs that can prove your lost income.
If circumstances permit, you should take photographs and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, property damage, and any other factors that could have contributed to the cause of the accident. If any witnesses observed the accident, you should collect their contact information as they may corroborate your version of the events.
Nevertheless, the most important step you can take after an accident is to enlist the help of an experienced New York City personal injury lawyer. At James Newman, P.C., we are prepared to help you investigate the circumstances of the accident and gather evidence to prove your claim. Connect with us today to learn how we can fight for you.
