What to Know About Gathering Evidence After a Car Accident

When you are in a car accident that was someone else’s fault, the most important thing in those first critical moments is to seek medical attention and call first responders. Next, protect your rights. You must gather the right evidence to support your side of the story while avoiding anything that could put your case at risk.

The next most important step is to contact a well-versed personal injury attorney in auto accident injury cases. The right attorney, like Tom Ueberschaer, P.A., can help you gather evidence to make the difference between significant compensation and losing everything.

Why Experience Matters

An experienced personal injury attorney who has handled many car accident cases is vital to your fight for compensation. Attorneys like Tom have seen many different types of accidents and have experience fighting back against insurance companies that go to great lengths to avoid paying.

Tom knows how to negotiate with the insurance company. He can provide support and guidance and help you avoid critical mistakes. He can remind everyone that you are the victim, ensure that your paperwork is completed correctly and on time and represent your interests in court if necessary.

Collecting Evidence of Liability

Collecting evidence against the other driver is vital to your case. Florida uses a concept known as pure comparative fault. This means that your award will be reduced by whatever percentage of fault you hold for the accident. For example, if your case is worth $100,000 and you are found to be 60% at fault for the accident, you can only get $40,000.

This is why it is essential to collect evidence that proves as definitively as possible that the defendant holds total fault. Evidence to this effect can include photos and videos of the scene, statements from witnesses, medical records showing injuries and even things the defendant says at the scene. Police reports, though not evidence unto themselves, can be an important tool to help you gather and organize evidence.

Identifying Liable Parties

Each car accident is unique and different, and sometimes those who hold responsibility can extend beyond the other driver. Besides the driver, some accidents see the vehicle manufacturer, the maker of faulty parts and even government agencies that maintain the roads be partially liable for the injuries you suffered. A car crash accident attorney can help you identify the responsible parties and hold them accountable for what happened to you.

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Calculating Damages

When you get hurt in an accident, damages are divided into two broad categories: economic and non-economic. Technically in Florida, as a no-fault state, your economic damages, such as medical bills and lost wages, are covered by your own no-fault insurance.

Non-economic damages are things like pain and suffering. To get compensated for these damages, you must file a lawsuit against the other driver. Your attorney knows how to apply formulas to determine the value of these more subjective damages and can negotiate when the other side tries to reduce the amount or avoid paying. An attorney like Tom can even fight your own insurance company if they deny your no-fault claim.

Maximizing Compensation

Personal injury attorneys are your best ally when you need one the most. They can help you maximize your compensation by standing up to bullying insurance companies. They can help you organize and gather more information, such as your medical bills and treatment records.

Car accident lawyers can help you avoid critical errors like signing the wrong document or saying the wrong thing. They can completely take over communications with the defense to protect you. Finally, if the case goes to court, your attorney will stand by your side and fight for you every step of the way.

Get Experienced Guidance on Your Car Crash Evidence

If you have been in a car wreck, call Tom right away. He can help protect your rights and seek full and fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Tom can help you navigate the complex legal system and ensure that your rights are protected the whole way. He can conduct a thorough investigation of the accident to determine fault and identify contributing factors.

Tom can help gather the evidence you need to negotiate with insurance companies and build a strong case. He can provide guidance and support to help you navigate the process. He can represent you in court, fight for fair compensation and provide you with the confidence and peace of mind you need. Call Tom Ueberschaer, P.A., at 850-434-8778 or use our online form to set up a case consultation today.