What Information Will a Los Angeles Personal Injury Lawyer Need at the Initial Consultation?
If you have been injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, scheduling a consultation with a knowledgeable Los Angeles personal injury lawyer is an important first step in protecting your legal rights and securing the compensation you need and deserve. But what can you expect at this initial meeting? What information and documents should you bring to help the attorney evaluate your case? At Kosnett Law Firm, we believe an informed client is an empowered client. Here is how to best prepare for your first consultation to make the most of this critical conversation.
Personal Information and Accident Details
When you sit down with a personal injury lawyer, they will first want to know some fundamental facts about you and the incident that caused your injuries. Be prepared to provide:
- Your full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email address
- The date, time, and specific location where the accident occurred
- A detailed description of how the accident unfolded from your perspective
- The names and contact information of any other parties involved
- The names and badge numbers of any police officers who responded to the scene
- The make, model, and insurance details for any motor vehicles that were involved
Your lawyer will likely take detailed notes as you recount the accident. Do not hesitate to share any details you remember, even if they seem minor. Sometimes, the smallest facts can make a big difference in how a case is handled.
Medical Documentation that Proves Your Injuries and Treatment
To build a strong personal injury claim, your lawyer will need to demonstrate the full extent of the physical, emotional, and financial harm you have suffered. Medical records are essential evidence for this purpose. Bring copies of any materials you have related to the diagnosis and treatment of your injuries, such as:
- Ambulance and emergency room records
- Hospital admission and discharge papers
- Surgical reports and hospital bills
- Doctor’s notes, prescribed medications, and physical therapy orders
- Receipts for any out-of-pocket medical expenses
- Documentation of missed work and lost wages due to your injuries
If you are still undergoing medical care for your injuries, let your lawyer know the names and specialties of your treating physicians. Your lawyer can obtain your complete medical file through a formal records request.
Correspondence with Insurance Companies
In the aftermath of an accident, you may be contacted by insurance adjusters representing the at-fault party’s insurance carrier and your insurance company if you are pursuing an uninsured or underinsured motorist claim. Provide your lawyer with copies of any letters or emails you have received from insurance companies regarding your accident. You should also note any phone conversations you have had with insurance representatives, including the name of the person you spoke with, the date and time of the call, and a summary of what was discussed.
Your personal injury lawyer will likely advise you to direct any future insurance inquiries to their office. Let your lawyer handle communications and negotiations with insurance companies to avoid saying anything that could undermine your claim.
Photos, Videos, and Witness Information
Strong visual evidence can be extremely persuasive in personal injury cases. If you have any photographs or videos related to the accident and your injuries, bring them to your initial consultation. Useful images may include:
- Photos of the accident scene showing vehicle damage, skid marks, road hazards, etc.
- Photos of your visible injuries taken periodically to document the healing process
- A “day-in-the-life” video showing how your injuries impact your daily activities
Additionally, your lawyer will want to know about any potential witnesses who may be able to testify in support of your claim. Bring contact information for anyone who saw the accident occur or who can speak to the severity of your injuries and the challenges of your recovery process.
A Written Narrative and List of Questions
Finally, it can be helpful to write a clear summary of the accident and how it affected your life. Include as many specific details as you can remember and explain how your injuries have impacted your ability to work, care for your family, and participate in activities you previously enjoyed. Creating a written narrative can help organize your thoughts before the consultation, prompt you to remember important points you want to share, and serve as a useful reference for you and your lawyer as your case moves forward.
Let Us Help You
At Kosnett Law Firm, we understand the profound physical, emotional, and financial impact a serious injury can have on you and your family. Contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation.
