How to Preserve the Evidence
A catastrophic case deserves a thorough investigation, and that depends on evidence that can disappear fast. This checklist covers what to protect.
Secure the physical evidence
If a vehicle or product was involved, do not let it be repaired, scrapped, or discarded. Store it safely — it may be critical to proving what happened.
Document the scene
Photograph the scene and conditions before they change, and note the location and details of how the injury occurred.
Identify witnesses
Get the names and contact information of anyone who saw what happened, while they can still be found.
Request official reports
Obtain any police, incident, or investigation reports, and note report numbers and responding agencies.
Act quickly with a lawyer
Evidence in serious cases is time-sensitive; an attorney can send preservation requests and engage investigators before it is lost.
The deadlines and rules depend on your state
The steps above apply wherever you were hurt. Filing deadlines, fault rules, and limits on damages differ by state — pick yours for what applies to catastrophic injury.
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This is general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different, and the law differs by state.