Car accidents can cause all kinds of issues you likely don’t want to deal with. Unfortunately, it’s essential you deal with the consequences of your car accident before they become worse. You need to get your car repaired so you have a reliable mode of transportation. You should seek medical care to handle your injuries. You also need to seek compensation from the party responsible for the accident. Before you file a lawsuit, the following are some things you should know.
Including a Police Report Could Benefit Your Case
When you’re looking for evidence to support your claim that the accident was someone else’s fault, there may be nothing more compelling than the police officer’s report of the accident. This is why it’s so important you contact the authorities immediately following the incident. The officer can speak to witnesses, get a visual idea of what took place, and come up with his or her determination of fault.
Gathering Evidence Is Key
To make your case even stronger, you’ll need to gather as much evidence as possible. In addition to the police report, include photographs of the scene. You could also take pictures of your injuries, the damage done to your car, and the damage done to the other cars. Collect witness information of your own in the case the police officer didn’t get all of them. You should also gather insurance information from the at-fault party.
The Statute of Limitations Must Be Met
Every state has a statute of limitations, which is the time limit you have to file your lawsuit. If you go beyond the statute of limitations in your state, you may forfeit the right to receive compensation. There are some exceptions, but you shouldn’t count on those to extend your time. The statute of limitations varies by state, with some sitting at one year and others sitting at six, with various time periods for various other states. It’s important you speak with your lawyer to understand how much time you have to file your lawsuit.
Hiring a Lawyer Is Essential
Having a lawyer on your side is a great way to ensure you are dealt with fairly by all parties involved in the accident. You’ll be working with insurance companies, other drivers, witnesses, and a variety of other individuals, and it will be nice to have legal representation on your side. Contact a lawyer, like a car accident lawyer in St. Paul, MN from Johnston Martineau, PLLP, today for help getting your lawsuit started.