Car accidents can leave anyone shaken up, proving it difficult to stay mindful and take further action in the situation. Luckily, 97% of all Americans own cell phones and 87% of those are smartphones, giving them instant access to help in an emergency. With these rapidly improving devices, documenting the impact of a car accident has become easier. However, there are still some precautions to consider when photographing evidence for any litigation that may arise from the accident.
How It Can Help
Taking pictures and video of the scene and other details surrounding the accident is a great way to preserve evidence and assist in making the best and most comprehensive claim. This will also come in handy when you deal with insurance adjusters who are constantly scrutinizing and trying to downplay your claim. In addition, your evidence will serve as a great tool if a personal injury lawsuit is to be filed. Plus, they can also help refresh your memory later down the line when speaking to the insurance company or testifying in court.
On the flip side, if you believe you were at fault for the accident, taking pictures and videos of the scene could still be beneficial. If you could adequately prove that the damage from the accident is minor or less serious, or the conditions surrounding it were a factor such as inclement weather, then you could possibly lessen your liability. Either way, having the right evidence is key, regardless of fault, so be sure to have your mobile device at the ready when faced with an accident.
Capture the Details
It is crucial to make sure that all damaged areas of your vehicle are documented, so you should photograph and record any damage sustained. However, the scene of the accident is just as important.
When taking photos of an accident scene, make sure to include:
- Your vehicle and the damage it sustained
- The other vehicles involved in the accident and their damages
- Any skid marks
- Vehicle parts, shattered glass, or any other debris that could have fallen onto the road
- Key indicators of the accident site (i.e., the intersection, parking lot, etc.)
- The location/condition of stop signs and traffic signals
- Indicators of the weather and other environmental conditions
- The exact positioning of the vehicles from the collision
- Any visible bodily injuries to you and any of your passengers
- Driver’s licenses, registration, license plates and insurance cards
What to Avoid
There are a few things you should avoid while gathering your evidence. For example, you should refrain from photographing the injuries of the other drivers involved. Photos of the opposing party’s injuries might further complicate your claim or raise additional concern or tensions.
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Let your motor vehicle accident attorneys at Daggett Shuler harness that to ensure you receive the best compensation possible. Call for a free consultation at 336-724-1234 or submit an inquiry form on our website today, and your path to justice will be underway.