If you’ve been injured in an accident on Long Island—whether it’s a car crash on the LIE, a slip and fall at a local business, or even a dog bite at a neighbor’s house—you might be wondering what it takes to win a personal injury case. One of the most important things you can do after getting hurt is gather the right evidence. Without it, even the most serious injuries and clearest cases of negligence may not be enough to secure compensation.
As personal injury attorneys who’ve handled thousands of cases over the past three decades, we at Palermo Law have seen firsthand how solid evidence can make or break a claim. We’ll walk you through the types of evidence you’ll need, why each one matters, and how you can help your case from day one.
When you file a personal injury claim in New York, the burden of proof is on you—the injured party. That means it’s up to you and your legal team to show that:
That’s where strong evidence comes in. It tells the story of your accident, connects the dots between cause and effect, and gives insurance companies—and juries, if necessary—clear reasons to award compensation.
Immediately after an accident, the scene holds some of the most critical information. If you’re physically able, try to gather:
Even if you weren’t able to collect this info yourself—say you were taken to the hospital right away—don’t worry. Your attorney can often return to the scene or work with investigators to recreate what happened.
In any personal injury claim, your medical treatment is one of the clearest links between the accident and your damages. Be sure to:
If you miss time from work or need accommodations, document that, too. Your lost wages and reduced earning capacity are part of your claim.
Alongside medical expenses, personal injury claims may include compensation for:
It’s important to save receipts, track time missed from work, and journal your recovery. A pain journal, for instance, can describe how your injury impacts your day-to-day activities, sleep, and emotional wellbeing.
In some cases, especially those involving serious or complex injuries, expert witnesses can make a major difference. These might include:
While not every case requires expert witnesses, having them can strengthen your claim—especially if the other side is trying to deny or minimize their responsibility.
In today’s world, digital evidence can be just as important as physical documentation. This could include:
Be mindful of your own social media, too. Insurance companies often check for photos or posts that could be used against you—for example, if you say you’re in pain but post vacation pictures days later.
Keep copies of:
These records can help clarify who said what and when—and help push back against any attempts to twist the narrative.
At Palermo Law, our team takes the burden off your shoulders. We handle evidence collection, preserve key documentation, and work with trusted experts to tell your story as powerfully as possible.
Evidence Builds the Foundation of Your Case
At the end of the day, a successful Long Island personal injury claim isn’t just about being injured—it’s about proving it. The stronger your evidence, the more likely you are to recover full and fair compensation for everything you’ve lost.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in an accident and you’re unsure what to do next, we’re here to help. At Palermo Law, we’ve been representing injured Long Islanders for over 30 years. We know what it takes to win—and we’ll stand by your side every step of the way.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Let’s talk about your case, your options, and how we can fight for the compensation you deserve.