They Know What They Know
Information is important in all areas of our lives.
It is particularly important in personal injury claims. Incorrect, or missing information can cause claims to fail.
Never assume that a defendant will properly, or indeed at all, record details of an accident.
We see all too many cases where there is no accident report – including occasions where our client has filled one in, and it has then mysteriously disappeared. We also see lots of cases where what is written down bears no resemblance to what actually happened.
Regrettably this can be the difference between success or not.
If you are unlucky enough to be involved in accident there are things you can do to try and avoid these difficulties.
- If you are asked to sign an accident form make sure you read it properly before signing, and do not sign it until it is correct.
- Ask to take a photograph of the accident form using your phone. there is no reason why you should be refused.
- If you are not involved in completing any paperwork at the time of the accident follow up with, preferably by email, correspondence to the defendant. It simply needs to refer to the accident and a summary of what happened. Get a delivery receipt when sending.
- When contacting the defendant ask for copies of the accident reporting paperwork, and if after you see it, it is incorrect tell them that, and explain why.
- If you are able to, take photographs of the accident scene at the time. If you do this using the camera on your phone it will confirm the date and time, and often the location.
And, consult solicitors promptly. It might be that for what ever reason you do not want to bring a claim straight away, and no reputable firm would ever put pressure on you to do so, but by getting advice early you avoid the risk of finding out too late what you should have done.
Contact Andrew on 01924 473065, [email protected] or use our livechat on our website. Initial advice is at no charge, and we should be able to act for you on a no win no fee basis.
