You always need a witness

If a tree falls in a forest and there's no one to hear it, does it make any sound? Do you remember this old conundrum?

When it comes to personal injuries, such as a slip and fall or an auto accident, it's always best if there is an observer to affirm that the event took place and to bear witness to its details.

If you're upset or in discomfort following an injury, the last thing you're probably interested in is finding someone who will say they saw or heard what happened. But think of this: Should you need to sue to receive compensation for medical bills and pain and suffering, a witness's testimony may be the most important single verification of the injury that you have going for you. When a case is before a jury, the other side's lawyer will look for witnesses to say the accident happened in a way that differs from your recollection. The opposing lawyer may look for details that may even suggest you were at fault for what happened. Talk about blaming the victim!

So here's what you do. Try your best to get the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of any witnesses to any accident in which you are involved.

You always need a witness.