If you were injured in an accident and plan on suing the individual, persons, or company responsible, it is imperative that you hire a reputable personal injury attorney. Beyond that, you can do a number of things to increase your chances of winning a lawsuit. Of course, your attorney will provide whatever assistance is needed. However, as the victim, it is important to know what things are considered most critical to your case.

For example, even if injuries are relatively minor, call the police to the scene and obtain a copy of the police report. One of the biggest mistakes that people make is refusing to have law enforcement get involved. After an officer arrives on scene, if you are able to request one, ask for a Traffic Collision Report. This single report is valuable in that it contains witness statements and other observations that will support your claim.

Again, even if injuries are mild, request medical attention. Sometimes, the body is on the brink of shock without knowing it. In addition, often the severity of injuries does not show up until days, weeks, and even months following an accident. You need to start creating a paper trail immediately, whether this entails being taken by ambulance to the emergency room or being treated on scene.

You also want to maintain all medical information, including statements, bills, and records of diagnoses and treatment for future care. Make sure you let the treating physician know exactly how you feel. In other words, report every ache, pain, bruise, scratch, and limitations. Having this information fully noted will help bolster your chance at a successful lawsuit.

One thing that you want to avoid is providing a recorded statement to the insurance company of the individual, persons, or company responsible for the accident and your injuries. Shortly after an accident, an insurance company will reach out to an injured person in an attempt to get him or her to say something wrong or to accept a low-ball figure in exchange for permanently closing the case. While you do need to contact your own insurance provider, always talk to an attorney before speaking to another insurance company.

The importance of contacting an experienced personal injury attorney following an accident cannot be stressed enough. This type of lawyer offers a free, no-obligation consultation. During that initial meeting, the attorney will assess the situation and then provide you with legal advice as to how to proceed. Just as with the attending doctor, provide as many details to the attorney as possible, including any reports and other documents obtained.

Whether you sustained mild, moderate, or serious injuries, these steps can make the difference in being successful or failing in a lawsuit. Especially for a more serious accident, there is too much at stake. Having a qualified and caring personal injury attorney on your side will not only relieve some of your stress but also give you the best chance to succeed in your lawsuit.