It can be extremely stressful if you’ve ever been involved in a personal injury case. In spite of the difficulties, however, it’s crucial to be upfront with your attorney about several things related to your case. Being straightforward and giving your attorney enough information could make the difference between winning and losing a case. The following are 7 essential things you need to tell your personal injury lawyer.
1. When and How the Injury Occurred
It’s important that your lawyer knows exactly when and how an injury happened. Whether an injury took place at work, in a public building, or was the result of a car accident will determine how the lawyer will approach the case. Every detail of the incident may have an impact on the outcome of your settlement.
2. Previous Injuries
Make sure to tell your attorney if you’ve ever been in any previous accidents or received other types of injuries. Another lawyer or an insurance adjuster could try to convince a court that any injuries you’re suffering from are the result of a previous incident.
3. Lost Wages and Medical Bills
To build a strong case, the attorney must know all the financial details related to your injury. This includes any lost wages and records of all medical bills that have been a result of the injury. It’s also important to keep track of the exact dates you’ve missed worked and incurred various medical expenses.
4. Bankruptcy
The lawyer needs to know about any bankruptcy filings, especially if they’ve taken place while the injury case is still being decided. Creditors may try to take any settlement you receive from the personal injury case.
5. Past Criminal History
A criminal history will likely have no bearing on the personal injury case but your lawyer should be aware of any past convictions. It’s likely the lawyers for the insurance company will run a background check.
6. Recently Filed for Divorce
A spouse or former spouse may be entitled to a portion of any settlement you receive. This is particularly true if the spouse has helped to support you in any way since you have been injured.
7. If Anyone Involved in the Case Has Contacted You
If you were injured by another driver, has the individual or their insurance company contacted you? An owner of a store where you were injured may have called or left messages. Any calls, texts, or emails should be saved and given to your attorney.
