What Evidence Do I Collect After a Car Accident?

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Evidence collection after a car accident is very important but also contingent on the safety related to the vehicle accident scene. However, evidence collection doesn’t stop after a crash scene is cleared away. As we review the types of evidence that you can help collect after your crash happens, please keep in mind that every collision is different, and the types of evidence you are able to gather may look different than what someone else is able to gather after their incident. Additionally, we strongly encourage you to contact a lawyer who specializes in car accidents as soon as possible, as a they may be able to help you gather important evidence that is otherwise seemingly unobtainable. 

Photographic Evidence

Taking photos of the accident scene is a great idea, if you can do so safely. This includes photos of the vehicles involved, any visible injuries, road conditions, and surrounding traffic signs. Photographs provide a clear and objective record of the scene, which can be invaluable for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Ensure that multiple angles and distances are captured to give a comprehensive view of the accident.

Witness Statements

Collecting statements from witnesses can provide an unbiased account of the accident. Witnesses can offer details that you might have missed and help corroborate your version of events. Get their contact information and ask them to describe what they saw. Written or recorded statements can be especially powerful evidence in your case.

Police Reports

Always call the police after an accident to get an official police report, no matter how minor it may seem. A police report is an official document that outlines the details of the accident, including the officer’s observations and any citations issued. This report can serve as a key piece of evidence when dealing with insurance companies or in court.

Medical Records

If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately and keep detailed records of all treatments and diagnoses. Medical records document the extent of your injuries and the necessary treatments, providing a direct link between the accident and your health issues. This evidence is important for proving damages in a Long Beach personal injury claim.

Surveillance Footage

Check if there are any surveillance cameras near the accident scene. Footage from traffic cameras, nearby businesses, or even dashcams from other vehicles can provide clear evidence of what happened. This type of evidence can be particularly compelling as it offers an unbiased view of the incident.

Vehicle Damage Assessment

Have a professional inspect the damage to your vehicle. Detailed reports and repair estimates can show the force of impact and the extent of the damage, which can be indicative of the accident’s severity. This evidence can help establish the seriousness of the collision and support claims for compensation.

Personal Notes

Write down your own account of the accident as soon as possible. Include details about what happened, how you felt, and any conversations you had at the scene. Personal notes can help refresh your memory later and provide a consistent account of the events when speaking with insurance adjusters or attorneys. Continue taking notes throughout the process including any delayed pain or symptoms you may experience.

Weather and Road Conditions

Document the weather and road conditions at the time of the accident. Was it raining or foggy? Were there any potholes or debris on the road? Such details can be vital in explaining why the accident occurred and who might be at fault.

Cell Phone Records

If distracted driving is a factor, cell phone records can be critical. These records can show whether a driver was on a call or texting at the time of the accident. This evidence can help prove negligence in distracted driving cases.

Insurance Information

Collect the insurance details of all parties involved. This includes policy numbers and the contact information of each party’s insurance company. Having this information readily available can expedite the claims process and help ensure that all parties are properly compensated.

Social Media Evidence

Be cautious about what you post on social media after an accident, as it can be used against you. Conversely, monitor the accounts of other involved parties for posts that might contradict their claims. Social media activity can sometimes provide insights into the actions and state of mind of those involved.

Do You Need a Car Accident Lawyer?

Collecting thorough evidence after a car accident is essential for protecting your rights and securing the monetary compensation you deserve. While this guide provides an overview of the types of evidence to gather, each accident is different, and additional steps may be necessary depending on the circumstances. Always consult with a qualified accident attorney in Long Beach to ensure you are taking the right steps to build a strong case.