Collecting evidence is essential in personal injury cases. You must demonstrate that an accident occurred, who is responsible, and what damage you have suffered. Strong evidence increases your chances of a successful claim in Rijswijk.
What must you prove?
In a personal injury case, you must substantiate the following points:
- That the accident actually occurred
- Who the liable party is
- That you have sustained injuries
- That these injuries were caused by the accident (causal link)
- The extent of the damage suffered
What forms of evidence are there?
| Type of evidence | Examples |
|---|---|
| Documentary evidence | Police report, medical documents, invoices |
| Witness statements | Statements from people who witnessed it |
| Expert reports | Medical analysis, assessment by occupational expert |
| Visual material | Photos, video footage, dashcam recordings |
| Other sources | WhatsApp messages, email correspondence |
Actions immediately after an accident
Try to collect evidence as quickly as possible:
- Document the situation, injuries, and damage with photos
- Write down the contact details of witnesses
- Have the police draw up a report
- Visit a doctor immediately to document your complaints
- Keep all receipts and invoices
Importance of medical evidence
Medical documentation is of great importance:
- Have your complaints recorded as soon as possible
- Keep a logbook of your symptoms
- Request a copy of your medical records
- In some cases, a medical expert report is required
Expert investigation
In complex cases, an expert may be engaged:
- Medical expert: Determining permanent limitations
- Occupational specialist: Assessing your ability to work
- Damage expert: Establishing the financial impact
- Traffic analyst: Reconstructing the accident
What if there are no witnesses?
In that case, other evidence becomes more important, such as a police report, photos, dashcam footage, or medical documentation immediately after the incident. A traffic analyst can help reconstruct the event.Can I request my medical records?
Yes, you have the right to access your medical records and can request a copy, often for a small fee. This record is crucial as evidence of your injury.How long should I keep evidence?
Keep evidence at least until your case is resolved. Given the limitation period of 5 years (and in some cases 20 years), it is advisable to keep everything for a long time.Frequently asked questions about personal injury in Rijswijk
What should I do immediately after an accident to collect evidence?
Act quickly after an accident: take photos of the situation and damage, note witness details, request a police report, and visit a doctor to register your complaints. Also keep all relevant receipts.
How do I prove that my injury was caused by the accident?
The link between the accident and the injury is crucial. Have your complaints medically documented immediately, keep a diary, and use medical reports or an expert investigation to demonstrate this.
What if the other party denies liability?
If the other party does not want to be held liable, you must collect evidence such as police reports, witness statements, or visual material. A personal injury lawyer in Rijswijk can assist you with this.
How important is a police report?
A police report is a powerful piece of evidence because it contains an official description of the accident. Ensure you have a copy and check the accuracy of the information.
Can I file a claim without photos or witnesses?
Yes, a claim is possible with alternative evidence such as medical reports, police reports, or an expert analysis. For example, a traffic analyst can help with reconstruction.
For legal support, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk or file a case at the Rechtbank Den Haag.