Obtain names, addresses and telephone numbers of all witnesses.

Photograph the scene where the incident occurred and any visible injuries (cuts, bruises). Professional photographs are generally preferable, but not essential.

Talk to no one about the incident or injuries other than the victim's personal physician or lawyer.

Consult a lawyer before answering questions from the product manufacturer or insurance company.

Tell the victim's personal physician or surgeon exactly how the injury occurred and describe all symptoms and complaints. Be sure to report memory problems, confusion or disorientation, however minor these things may seem at the time.

Begin keeping a diary of how the injury or death affects the life of the victim and family. In particular, write down all medical related visits and everything that causes physical pain, frustration or worry.

Obtain and keep receipts for all expenses relating to the incident.

Damages which a victim and the victim's family may be entitled to recover include:

hospital and medical expenses, both past and future

lost earnings, both past and future

permanent physical disability, such as a limp, scars, loss of a limb

emotional distress, such as depression and anxiety

grief and emotional suffering caused by the death of a loved one

loss of love and companionship caused by the death of a loved one

damage or destruction of property

physical pain and suffering

loss of enjoyment of life

CPR&S

The law firm of Clark, Perdue, Roberts & Scott has extensive experience handling claims involving defective products. If requested, we will meet with you -- in your home or at the hospital, if necessary -- to explain your legal rights and make suggestions for immediate action on your claim. There is never a charge for an initial consultation. Naturally, you are under no obligation to retain our law firm at the initial conference.

Questions To Ask

For a list of questions you should ask before hiring a lawyer, 
click here.


Other Link

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission -- Saving Lives and Keeping Families Safe