Collecting Evidence for a Premises Liability Claim

ISLANDIA, N.Y. - Dec. 30, 2020 - PRLog -- People are hurt on other people's property every day in New York. Fortunately, the civil system allows injured individuals to file a claim to recover compensation after an accident. When filing a personal injury claim after a slip and fall, or any other type of premises liability accident, your word is unfortunately not enough.

You will need clear and convincing evidence that supports your claim for damages. After an accident, many people do not know what to do, or what type of evidence to collect. If you have been injured on someone else's property, below are the most important pieces of evidence that will strengthen your claim.

Photographs and Video Footage

Property owners do not want to be liable for paying damages to accident victims. Due to this, there is a good chance that once you leave the scene, they will correct the unsafe condition that caused your injuries. It is for this reason it is so important to take pictures before you leave the scene.

Photograph the hazardous condition that caused your accident, your injuries, and anything else that is relevant. Even a blank space on a wall that shows a lack of warning signs could be helpful to your claim. When taking video footage, survey the entire scene so nothing is missed.

Police Reports

If your accident was relatively minor, such as a slight slip and fall, you may not have to call the police. However, if your accident was serious, such as falling from a great height, you should call the police or ask someone to do it for you. After an investigation, law enforcement will write and file a report that may indicate the property owner's negligence. Obtain a copy of this report to show that the property owner was negligent and that you were not partially at fault for the accident, which could hurt your claim.

Lease or Purchase Agreements for the Property

A lease or purchase agreement will show who the property owner or occupier is, which correlates with the party liable for paying damages. The property owner or occupier will likely be reluctant to give you a copy, but a personal injury lawyer can help you collect it.

Medical Records

Your health is the most important priority after an accident, so it is critical that you seek medical attention soon afterwards. Medical records can also help prove the extent of your injuries so you claim maximum damages. You should also seek medical help immediately because you cannot file a claim until you understand the full extent of your injuries.

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