Right after an accident, you might not realize you are hurt. Injuries like head trauma and soft tissue damage can go unnoticed at first but can turn out to be severe. The best way to minimize long-term effects is to seek an early medical evaluation and keep all follow-up appointments.
Even though it is normal for some injuries to worsen over time, insurance adjusters and juries often view delayed medical treatment suspiciously. Getting a checkup soon after an accident can safeguard your credibility.
You need to prove the extent of your injury, and that the defendant is legally responsible. Supporting documents are an essential part of this.
From the time of the accident, save a copy of anything that helps you prove these things. That can include:
- Medical evaluations and bills
- Photos
- Police reports
- Eyewitness statements and identifying information
- Employment documents related to lost wages
Keep a file with any supporting documents and share this with your personal injury lawyer at your first meeting.
In Virginia, calling the police after an accident is not mandatory, but it is a smart thing to do.
Under Virginia law, any driver involved in an accident that results in injury, death, or property damage must stop and report their name and other information to either the police or the driver or occupant of the other vehicle. Making a report to the police means you will be able to access it – that will help by:
- Verifying that the accident occurred
- Documenting parties, witnesses, and insurance companies
- Possibly assigning fault and documenting citations
Not everything in the police report may be helpful, but your attorney will rely on professional experience to determine how to address any problems.
Anything you say about your accident on social media can come back to haunt you. Even seemingly unrelated posts like photos of you engaged in activities can be used to discredit your injury.
In Virginia, the statute of limitations is set at two years after the date of the injury to file your claim. To ensure your case is taken care of efficiently and effectively, it is vital to have an attorney on your side. Our Rutter Mills personal injury lawyers have the experience and financial resources to fiercely negotiate with insurance on your behalf and advocate for you in trial if insurance is uncooperative.
