When you are injured in a Maryland car accident, you can probably guess that solid, credible evidence is one of the most important factors in recovering compensation from the at-fault driver. In general, you need proof in two key areas:
- How the responsible motorist’s negligent acts were the direct cause of the crash; and,
- The nature and severity of your injuries, along with the physical, financial, and emotional losses stemming from them.
Evidence regarding these factors is important whether you are negotiating an agreement with the other driver’s insurance company. It is crucial if you file a lawsuit in court. Fortunately, much of this information is within your knowledge or possession, so you need to make sure to bring the following to your first meeting with a Baltimore County car accident attorney.
Driver Contact Information
Under Maryland’s statute on filing an accident report, you must exchange information with other motorists any time you are involved in a collision that leads to death, bodily injury, or property damage. These basic details are essential for initiating the legal process. This starts by filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Police Report
Officers responding to a 911 call will prepare a police report regarding the incident, using information they gather from the scene, statements from vehicle occupants, and discussions with witnesses. This document may be important as proof of your claim, particularly where the details corroborate your version of the collision. Plus, the police report may indicate whether another motorist was ticketed for a traffic violation. This could act as evidence of negligence.
Medical Records
Make sure to bring all documentation reflecting treatment by any and all health care providers. Including the ER, care from specialists, lab and test results, and other medical records. You may be entitled to reimbursement for costs you incur. The details regarding your care are also critical for establishing pain and suffering.
Evidence Gathered at the Scene
If you were able to take photos, these images may be useful for your attorney in proving causes and underlying factors. Signs, signals, lane markings, obstructions, traffic conditions, and other visual evidence can help recreate the scene.
Wage and Income Information
For severe injuries, you may need to take time off work to recover. It is possible to recover monetary damages for your lost wages, so your attorney will need tax records, paystubs, or other documentation to include these amounts in your claim.
Set Up Your Consultation with a Maryland Car Accident Lawyer
While you can count on your attorney for assistance with the specific legal details, you best support your rights when you provide as much information and documentation as possible at your first meeting. For more information on your remedies as the victim of a motor vehicle collision, please contact attorney Michael A. Freedman to schedule a no-cost case evaluation. We can explain the legal process and develop a strategy for recovering compensation after reviewing your unique circumstances.
