Obtaining a favorable settlement depends on keeping good records. If you are sloppy or careless, then you could be leaving money on the table. Remember to do the following after an accident to set yourself up for a generous settlement.
You will only get compensation if you can show that someone else’s negligence caused your injuries. For example, if you are in a car accident, you’ll need to:
Other accidents will require other information. For example, if you slip and fall, then get a picture of the hazard that caused you to slip. If a dog bit you, try to get a picture of the dog as well as your bites soon after the attack.
Basically, this information can help your attorney determine who is responsible for your injuries. You should also avoid discussing the details of an accident unless you are talking to an attorney. People might mishear something or don’t really understand what someone else is saying. You don’t want them showing up into court claiming you said something that you didn’t.
A lot depends on the seriousness of your injuries. The grislier and more permanent, the more money you can probably receive in a settlement. Months will pass from the accident until the settlement date, and wounds can heal within that time.
You can document your injuries with the following:
You can generally receive compensation for money you spent as a result of your injuries. This can include medical care and fixing any property that was damaged. Remember to hold onto all:
You can also receive money to make up for lost wages, even if you took sick time or vacation days. Keep a copy of your most recent paystub which can show how much you make.
If you are self-employed, you can also receive compensation if you turned down work. Keep copies of all contracts or job offers you declined or had to cancel. Proving lost self-employed income is a little harder, unless your income is very consistent. Get copies of balance sheets and profit and loss statements for the past several years.
This is the hardest type of injury to document. How do you convince someone that you feel pain or mental anguish and are not exaggerating your injuries? There are certain things we recommend to our clients:
If you receive prescriptions for mood disorders, then hold onto those.
Keep details about the mental health therapists that you have met with. You can be reimbursed for these expenses, but they also help show that you are suffering emotionally.
Document the pain you feel, such as the location, intensity, type, etc. Do this every day.
Explain how your injuries have disrupted your daily routine. Are you unable to play with children or grandchildren? Can you not leave the house?
By keeping this type of detailed information, you can establish credibility that your injuries have truly impaired your quality of life.
After an accident, you should reach out to a Nevada personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Your attorney will have ideas for how you can document your injuries and what you should hold onto.
Contact Ladah Law Firm. We write a leading Las Vegas legal blog that keeps the public updated on changes to the law and how to protect their rights. We credit our reputation to our aggressive reputation of our clients, which has borne impressive results. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, 702-252-0055.