What To Bring To Your Consultation With A Personal Injury Attorney

Getting hurt on the job, in a slip-and-fall, or in an auto accident can negatively impact your ability to work and alter your lifestyle. A personal injury attorney can help you determine if there is legal recourse for your accident and the best way to pursue getting damages for your pain and suffering. If you've been injured in an accident and have scheduled a consultation with a personal injury attorney, what you bring will help the attorney evaluate your case. 

The following is a list of some critical documents you should keep and bring to your injury consultation.

1) Police Or Incident Report Of The Accident

If you have a police or incident report associated with the accident or injury claim, you should have a copy for the personal injury attorney to review. The more the attorney knows about the incident, the better, so if you don't know if a report was made or how to access it, let the attorney know in advance.

2) Medical Documentation Of Your Injury And Your Insurance Provider

Any documentation regarding your injury and care since the injury is vital to your case. Bring medical records and your insurance provider information with you to your consultation. It is also helpful to write down critical contact information for doctors and medical centers that initially treated you and are managing your recovery. Keep all your accident or injury-related medical documentation in one place, including x-rays, prescriptions, care instructions, discharge instructions, and medical referrals so that they will be readily available to your attorney.

3) Communications From The Party Who Was At Fault For Your Injury

You may have been contacted by the person who was at fault for your injury or their insurance company. If the party at fault or their representative has sent you emails, letters, text messages, and voicemails, bring copies to your injury attorney for review. The attorney will want to ensure they are your contact point for these types of correspondences once they represent you.

4) Photographs Of Accident Or Scene Where Injury Incurred

A picture is worth a thousand words regarding your personal injury case. Any photos of your damaged vehicle, accident scene, injuries, and other associated evidence will help your attorney build your case.

5) Bills And Receipts Of Payments

Bring any bills and receipts of expenses associated with your injury claim to your consultation. These may include medical bills and receipts for treatment that has already been paid for, including prescriptions and medical products like crutches or slings. Also, include repair bills for damaged automobiles, car rental receipts, and other expenses incurred from your accident. Even if you are unsure, you can claim a cost; saving the bill and bringing it for your attorney to review is best.

6) Lost Wages From Your Injury

Most injuries require you to miss work while you recuperate. Even if you used sick leave or vacation time, bring your pay stubs, W-2 forms, and any time-off slips your doctor provided to your consultation. If you are self-employed, get invoices, income tax returns, and any other documentation of your absence from work. 

Final Thoughts

Being injured in a car or other accident can result in mounting bills and time off from work. When you meet with a personal injury attorney to discuss your claims, you should have documentation that helps them determine your best course of action.