The Social Security system is in place to help us through difficult times. Unfortunately, there are some instances in which the system makes our lives even more difficult than they need to be. The day I received the denial letter for my claim, I wasn't sure what I was going to do. After talking with a few friends, I contacted a lawyer. That was the best decision I had ever made. Even with the professional assistance, getting the denial overturned and getting the money that I was owed took several months. I have kept a clear journal of my experience and loaded it with information that can help others get through what can be an impossible time.
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Social security denial - a journal of assistance
Approaching And Talking To Witnesses After A Car Crash
Alexis Garcia
Eyewitness testimony strengthens your auto accident claim. A strong claim increases your compensation and chances of settlement. Below are tips to get eyewitness testimony immediately after an auto accident.
Examples of Witnesses
A witness is anyone near the accident scene who could have heard, seen, or experienced the events related to the crash. Witnesses include other road users, nearby workers, nearby homeowners, pedestrians, and even passengers in passing cars. You don't know who can provide you with valuable evidence at the time of the accident, so don't discount anyone.
When to Approach a Witness
Although eyewitness testimony is valuable to your case, you should only approach an eyewitness if it is safe for you to do so. For example, you should only approach an eyewitness if:
- You can walk to the witness without worsening your injuries
- The space between you and the witness is clear; for example, you don't have to cross a dangerous road
- The witness is still at the accident scene, and approaching them does not involve or constitute fleeing the accident scene
Eyewitness testimony is valuable, but preserving your health and obeying the law are more critical.
Information to Request
If you do manage to talk to witnesses, do not insist on getting all the information from them. Get the relevant information and make follow-ups later. For example, you can get each witness's name, contact, and address. Explain to the witness that you need their contact to follow up on their testimony later. Hopefully, they will agree to subsequent contacts.
If the witness is willing and you have time, you can also get a brief statement from them. A notebook and paper can help, or you can record the witness's statement with your cell phone. Whatever you do, ensure you have the witness's permission. After all, you need the witness on your side, and you shouldn't antagonize them.
Tracking Witnesses Later
Do not lose hope if you fail to talk to witnesses at the accident scene. Consult a car accident lawyer, and they can help you track witnesses in addition to helping you with other aspects of the case. For example, your lawyer can track witnesses using the police report that will likely carry contact information for those the police interviewed at the accident scene.
Your lawyer can also track witnesses using private investigators. Other methods involve canvassing the accident scene, using photographs or videos of the accident, and talking to other witnesses. In short, expect your lawyer to do everything possible to get relevant testimony to strengthen your case.
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