Visual evidence is powerful because it provides an objective, unchangeable record of a scene, injury, or product condition at a specific moment. Unlike memory or testimony, which can fade or be disputed, a clear photo or video directly shows what happened. It can document hazardous conditions (like a wet floor), the extent of injuries, or a defective product. This makes it extremely difficult for the other party to credibly argue against what is plainly visible, often leading to faster settlements.

You must provide business records that demonstrate your historical earnings. Gather documents like invoices, client payment records, bank statements showing deposits, and your filed tax returns (Schedule C) for the previous one to two years. The goal is to show a clear pattern of income that was disrupted. For gig platforms, download your earnings summaries. Consistent records are key, as insurers often scrutinize self-employed claims more closely.

The law recognizes three core defect types. A manufacturing defect is a flaw that makes one specific product different and more dangerous than others in its line. A design defect means the entire product line is inherently unsafe due to a poor blueprint. A marketing defect involves failures in proper instructions or warnings, failing to alert users to non-obvious risks. Your claim’s path depends on proving which type of defect caused your injury, as the legal tests and evidence required differ for each category.