After An Accident, Do Not Wait To Get Trusted Help

Documents to Bring to Your First Meeting with a Florida Personal Injury Attorney

On Behalf of | Nov 25, 2019 | Personal Injury Law |

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Most personal injury lawyers offer a free initial consultation for accident victims, which is fortunate when you’ve been hurt and are suffering the financial consequences.  It is always best to call an attorney immediately after an accident.  In that case, the attorney will gather most necessary documents for you including medical records.  However, if some time has passed since the accident before you call an attorney, you should come to the meeting prepared with helpful documentation.

To make the meeting as productive as possible when some time has passed since the accident, it’s best to be prepared. Success with your claim depends upon documentary evidence, so you should bring relevant paperwork with you. This information will aid your attorney in assessing your legal options and developing a strategy to seek monetary damages.

As such, you’re sure to hit the ground running by reviewing this list of documents to bring to the meeting with your Ocala personal injury lawyer.

Medical Records: Work with your doctor and any other treating physicians to obtain copies of your medical records, including notes, communications, lab screenings, imaging test results, and other information regarding your injuries. These documents typically have information regarding your diagnosis, potential recovery time, treatment, and physical limitations caused by your condition.

Income and Wages: If you were unable to work due to your injuries, you can recover lost wages. Pay stubs, income tax records, and related paperwork serve as proof for this type of damages, whether you’re an hourly worker, salaried employee, or self-employed.

Out-of-Pocket Expenses: You should collect copies of all receipts, invoices, and expenses you’ve incurred as a result of your accident. It’s possible to obtain compensation for such out-of-pocket costs as: 

  • Transportation to and from doctor’s appointments;
  • Prescription and over-the-counter pain medications;
  • Modifications to your home, if any;
  • Medical equipment, including crutches, a wheelchair, a hospital bed, and other assistive devices.

Police Incident Report: For victims of car accidents, the police report prepared by responding officers may be helpful. It could include important information regarding who was at fault and whether police issued a traffic citation. If you were injured at work or a public space, the business may generate an accident report. You may experience challenges in obtaining it before your first meeting, but it’s still important to make the request.

Videos and Pictures: Hopefully, you were able to capture images with your cell phone right after the accident. Bring these with you, as they’re very helpful for your attorney in evaluating your claim. It’s useful to have pictures and video of:

  • Your injuries;
  • Property damage to your car, bicycle, or other vehicle, if applicable;
  • The scene of the accident; and,
  • Other physical conditions.

Contact Information for Involved Parties and Witnesses: Your lawyer will want to know the identities of all individuals who were present or otherwise involved with the accident. These may be potential parties from whom you’ll seek compensation, or they could be witnesses to support your claim.

Speak to an Ocala, FL Personal Injury Attorney for Free

By bringing these essential documents to your first legal consultation, you’re providing crucial support that your lawyer needs to pursue your claim for compensation. To set up a no-cost case evaluation, please call Piccin & Glynn. You can reach our Ocala, FL office at 352-558-8480 or via our website. We can explain your legal remedies after reviewing your circumstances.

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