What Types of Evidence Do I Need for My Personal Injury Case?

You’ll need things like medical records, accident reports, photos of your injuries and the scene, and witness statements. Don’t worry, we’ll help you gather everything you need.

Attorneys handling personal injury claims use various pieces of evidence to support their clients’ claims. What type of evidence is necessary for personal injury cases? Although every situation is different, it’s usually wise for victims to gather accident scene photos or witness statements if they’re able. 

Evidence from the scene may be essential, but it’s also possible to gather additional evidence in the weeks following an accident. Personal injury attorneys often turn to outside resources to strengthen a case. For example, they may seek testimony from experienced doctors in a medical malpractice case or partner with an accident reconstruction professional to fill in the blanks of a car accident lawsuit. 

Other potential pieces of evidence needed for personal injury cases include:

• Surveillance footage: Security cameras or vehicle dashcams can show an accident, which helps determine liability. 
• Police reports: Responding police officers write detailed reports outlining accidents, including potential causes and the parties involved. Request a copy for your legal counsel to review. 
• Medical records: How can anyone believe that you sustained an injury if you don’t seek treatment for it? Medical records back up your claim.  
• Prior complaints or safety records: In product or premises liability cases, these documents may prove negligence. An example could be a landlord emailing their tenant and dismissing their safety concerns over a broken staircase. 

The evidence above may determine fault or highlight the extent of one’s injuries. Lawyers may also ask for evidence to calculate a victim’s total damages. 

Evidence for Assessing Economic and Non-Economic Damages

To determine a claim’s potential worth, lawyers have to evaluate the victim’s losses. They could claim economic and non-economic damages, but they’ll need sufficient evidence. 

One’s medical bills could be a key source for calculating economic damages. Other financial documents may be relevant, such as vehicle repair estimates. If an accident prevents someone from working, they’ll need to provide past pay stubs to assess their lost wages. 

It’s also possible to claim damages for pain and suffering. Medical records and statements from loved ones could attest to the impact an injury has on one’s mental and emotional well-being. 

For a better idea of the evidence needed for your personal injury case, reach out to Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers. Our experienced attorneys represent victims of medical malpractice, motor vehicle accidents, dog bites, and other incidents that cause harm. We offer free case reviews with no obligation. 

To discuss your situation with a legal professional, call (484) 351-0350 today.