Q. Is it important to gather available evidence shortly after an accident? What type of evidence should be gathered?

A. Yes. Collecting and preserving evidence is critical to an injured person's ability to receive justice through our tort system. We live in a time when injured victims must prove all aspects of their case, even the obvious aspects. If an injured victim delays gathering evidence and simply depends upon the insurance company or law enforcement to gather evidence, serious harm can be done to your case.

            As soon as possible after an accident, you or your attorney should start the process of gathering evidence. In personal injury situations this would include:

                        1. Taking photographs of the accident scene.

                        2. Taking photographs of both vehicles.

                        3. Photographing your injuries, if visible.

                        4. Taking statements from the other party.

                        5. Taking statements from witnesses.

                        6. Learning about the law that will control your case.

                        7. Documenting your wage loss.

                        8. Starting the process of collecting your medical bills.

                        9. Getting reasonable and necessary medical care for your injuries.

            Although this list looks simple, in practice, it is hard to do a complete job when gathering evidence. Taking statements and photographing vehicles require that you know what you are doing. People with questions concerning investigation of an injury should discuss them with an attorney of their choice.