A car accident is traumatic, confusing and stressful. The rush of adrenaline, especially if the crash leads to significant injuries, often makes vital, pragmatic steps the last thing you think about.
However, you must understand that documenting everything immediately following a crash and throughout your recovery is the most critical factor in securing fair compensation in Missouri. Without this valuable evidence, insurance companies will likely deny your claim.
Establishing fault and proving medical expenses
Documentation helps establish fault, which is vital under Missouri’s pure comparative fault system. Under this rule, a judge or jury reduces your total compensation by the percentage of fault they assign to you.
The evidence you gather can directly challenge any attempt by the insurance company to assign you a higher percentage of blame. To protect yourself, take these steps after a crash:
- Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage and visible injuries.
- Get contact information for all witnesses.
- Secure the official police report.
Seeking immediate medical attention is essential, even if you think you are fine. Many injuries are not apparent until hours or even days later. Seeing a doctor creates an official, objective link between the accident and your injuries.
Medical bills and invoices, along with medical records and, in some cases, expert testimony, are necessary to prove and calculate the full extent of recoverable health care expenses.
Assessing damages
To recover lost income when your injuries leave you unable to work, you must have clear, verifiable evidence outlining the specific time you missed. You must also meticulously track estimates and final repair bills for your vehicle’s property damage.
Detailed documents related to all economic damages you suffer as a result of the accident are the foundation of your financial claim, including:
- Medical bills, including any rehabilitation costs
- Pay stubs, W-2s and employer confirmation letters
- Property damage records, such as repair estimates and final invoices
Finally, you must accurately describe the nonphysical impacts of the accident, such as pain and suffering. You must also keep track of these noneconomic factors to help your attorney negotiate with insurers or argue before a jury so you receive maximum compensation.
You can best accomplish this by writing in a daily injury journal detailing pain levels, emotional struggles, loss of sleep and how the injuries limit your ability to enjoy regular daily activities and hobbies.
Pursue compensation and peace of mind
Successfully proving all types of damages in a Missouri claim often requires skilled legal representation. An experienced car accident attorney can help gather valuable evidence and deal with insurers.
Along with a skilled lawyer’s guidance, thorough documentation is your most powerful tool against an insurance company attempting to minimize or outright deny your claim. From a bruise that heals quickly to permanent injuries, every detail ensures you can pursue full damages.