If you were hurt due to someone else's negligence, you can file a personal injury claim with the at-fault party's insurer to recover compensation. When a settlement can't be reached, a civil lawsuit will be necessary to seek damages. An insurer's objective is to minimize payouts to claimants, so it's important to include substantial evidence that will make it harder for them to argue your injuries aren't substantial or weren't caused by the accident in question. Here's a look at what will increase the odds of a fair settlement or a favorable outcome if the matter goes to court. 

What Evidence Is Used in a Personal Injury Claim?

1. Photos & Video From the Scene

Before you leave the location of the accident, it's beneficial to take photos with a phone, if possible. If you were in an auto accident, for example, take pictures of your vehicle before it's moved, skid marks and shattered glass on the road, shrubbery and other objects that caused blind spots, and pictures of your injuries. 

Images will paint a clearer picture of what conditions caused the accident and the severity of what happened. Traffic cameras and CCTV footage can also shed light on the at-fault party's actions. 

2. Witness Statements

Anyone who saw the incident can provide vital information, too. For this reason, it's helpful to gather the contact details of other people who were involved in the accident or saw it happen. 

Your personal injury lawyer will reach out to these individuals later to recount what they saw, which can be used to verify your version of events. Through written statements, audio or video recordings, or in-person testimony, witnesses can describe conditions that led or contributed to the accident, the behavior of the at-fault party, and any other factors the insurer or judge should consider when making a decision.  

3. Medical Evidence

Don't hesitate to seek medical attention. If you wait, the at-fault party's insurer could argue your injuries weren't that bad, or you sustained them in some other incident. As some injuries, such as whiplash or a concussion, might have delayed symptoms, it's a good idea to visit a doctor even if you feel like you don't need care.

Your attorney will obtain a copy of your initial medical paperwork to include with the claim. Follow-up care with your primary doctor or specialists is necessary, too. Their reports will include the prognosis, diagnosis, and rehabilitation plan. This information will help an insurer or judge calculate how much money you should receive.

To determine whether you have grounds to file a personal injury claim in Alabama, contact the counselors at Carey & Hamner, P.C. The lawyers represent clients in Enterprise, Dothan, and Ozark who were injured in car, truck, and motorcycle accidents. They will negotiate a settlement with an insurer or fight for your right to fair compensation in court. Learn about the legal team's commitment to clients online and call (855) 435-4797 for a free consultation.