5 Kinds of Materials You Should Have for a Car Accident Case in Houston TX
If you’ve recently been in a car accident, you’re certainly stressed out and would rather not wade through legal complexities. However, it’s important that you put in a legal claim right away, so you stand a greater chance at having any medical bills or compensation for pain and suffering covered by the at-fault party’s insurance.
Here are a few things you’ll need before you officially file your auto accident claim.
Police Report
As long as you have a police report about what occurred at the scene of the accident, it should set you up for a good case. Usually referred to as an “incident report” or “accident report”, it will include key points such as any traffic laws that were violated, statements from those who were involved as well as from witnesses. You can call up the agency that was present at the scene, but you’ll likely need to have the badge number and name of the officer who was there, names of the drivers involved, and/or the location and date of the incident.
Proof of Value and Vehicle Damage Estimates
If there was any damage done to the vehicle, you likely can get compensation for the amount it costs to repair the damage. The amount you seek may be the cash value of your car prior to the accident, or the estimated amount for repairs from an auto body shop. If your vehicle cannot be repaired, it’s best to look in a source like the Kelley Blue Book for its fair market value.
Journal for the Accident and Related Information
Keep your own record of what happened during the accident, as well as any communication you have with insurance companies. Also, you should include details about your medical appointments and any surgeries or treatment you’ve needed as a result of the car accident. Use it as a way to keep track of days you miss work, as well.
Medical Records
In addition, be sure that you get any paperwork that relates to your appointments and treatment or surgeries. This should detail what injuries were found to be connected to the accident, exactly what medical procedures were conducted, and the cost of each of them. If you’re not given these documents directly, you should request anything related to diagnostic work, prescriptions, physical therapy, and psychological assessments.
Job Records
If you had to miss work due to the accident, it’s important you gather any materials related to it. This can be pay stubs, email correspondence or formal letters from your employer regarding having to miss work, and worker’s compensation paperwork.
The whole process of going forward with a claim can be frustrating and disheartening. If you have a solid car accident lawyer in Houston, TX on your side, you should be in good shape. Reach out to contact the firm today and you won’t regret it.
