Being involved in any type of accident often involves filing a personal injury claim, but it won’t be successful if the claim isn’t backed up by documentation. There are various types of documentation that can be used as evidence in establishing a claim, and each type will help prove a different aspect of the claim. This overview looks at the most common types of documentation and how they’re used to file a successful claim.

4 Types of Documentation Used to Prove a Personal Injury Claim

1. An Official Police Report

Whether you’ve been bitten by a dog, slipped and fell, or were in a car accident, it may be necessary to call the police. Make sure you have the opportunity to get your own statement included in the report. This will ensure your version of event will become a part of the official report. You should also let the officer know you want a copy of the report.

2. Information From Others at the Scene

After calling for emergency services, you should begin collecting the names and contact information for witnesses and others involved in the accident. Collect insurance information from potentially liable parties. You’ll need this information when it’s time to file a claim for your injuries.

3. Take Photos

It’s also helpful to take photos of the accident scene before anything is disturbed. After an auto accident, get pictures of the damage to your vehicle. If you slipped on someone’s property, take a picture of the hazard that caused your fall. Even in a dog bite case, you can get pictures of the dog and the scene to show how the animal got loose. This will help your lawyer file a personal injury claim and establish fault.

4. Medical Care Documentation 

Finally, obtain copies of your medical records and your bills for treatment. This should include your initial diagnoses, treatments you received immediately following the accident, and any recommendations for future treatments. Even something as simple as a bone fracture may require months of recovery and physical therapy, so you will want to seek compensation for that time. In more serious accidents, a permanent mental or physical disability may result, so be sure to collect medical reports that reflect those disabilities.

If you have been involved in any accident that resulted in serious injuries, you will likely need to file a personal injury claim. Ibold & O'Brien has more than 40 years of experience in handling injury claims, so you can trust their expertise to help you obtain a fair settlement. To schedule an initial consultation, visit their website, or call (440) 285-3511.