A motor vehicle collision can be a life-changing, traumatic event that can have devastating consequences. After an auto accident, it can be difficult to know what steps to take or how to pursue compensation. One important step is to gather evidence at the accident scene to support your case if you plan on pursuing compensation from the other driver’s insurance provider. At the Ibrahim Law Firm, our car accident lawyers have created this guide that discusses what evidence you need to gather to help support your claim and your demand for compensation.
What Evidence Should I Gather After a Vehicle Collision?
At the scene of the accident and the days following the crash, there’s vital evidence you must gather that will help prove your demand for compensation.
If you’re involved in a car crash, gather the following types of evidence:
Witness Statements
Obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses. Ask each witness if they would be willing to provide a statement.
Obtain Contact and Insurance Information
Speak with the other driver and obtain their name, contact information, and insurance information. If the driver will not provide their contact information, your car accident lawyer may be able to retrieve the information from the responding law enforcement officer.
Take Photos and Video Of the Accident Scene
Take photos of the accident scene from different angles. You should also take photos and video of your injuries, and anything that could have contributed to the crash, such as missing signage, faulty traffic lights, or debris on the road.
Vehicle Damage
Take photos and video from a variety of angles of all the vehicles involved in the accident.
Road Conditions
If there was debris on the road or the roads were wet or icy, take photos and video of road conditions.
Traffic and Security Cameras
Footage from security cameras or nearby traffic cameras can also help to support your case and establish liability.
Obtain a Copy Of the Police Report
Your car accident attorney will obtain a copy of the police report regarding the collision. Law enforcement officers make a report after every accident. These reports can include helpful information that can strengthen your claim, including which party the officer believed was negligent.
How Do I Document Injuries Sustained from a Collision?
An auto accident can cause a wide range of injuries. If you sustain severe injuries, the medical bills will quickly pile up. Keep all documentation from doctor’s visits, surgeries, appointments with physical therapists, and other specialists, and receipts for any medication you’re taking. You should also keep a journal documenting how your injuries affect your daily life and your ability to take care of yourself and go to work. Also note how often you’re in pain and the severity of the pain, using a scale of 1-10.
Should I Hire a Car Crash Lawyer?
If you were injured in an auto accident that was caused by a negligent driver, you must take legal action as soon as possible. At the Ibrahim Law Firm, our car accident lawyers know how to investigate an accident and gather vital evidence that can support your claim. We will handle every aspect of your case and will work tirelessly to help you recover the fair settlement you’re owed from the negligent driver’s insurance provider.
If the insurance provider refuses to make a reasonable settlement offer, our legal team will be prepared to file a lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court. The majority of the time, car accident cases are settled out of court. An insurance company is often more willing to make a fair settlement offer after a lawsuit has been filed.
Contact Us Today
If you were involved in an auto accident that was caused by a negligent driver, the legal team at the Ibrahim Law Firm can help. Our car accident lawyers offer free legal consultations where you can explore your legal options and rights and learn how we can help you recover the fair settlement you deserve, for an accident that was not your fault. Contact us today to learn more.
