How to Preserve Evidence After A Car Accident

While accidents are unavoidable, you can still pursue fair compensation for injuries and property damage. One effective method is to collect and preserve evidence of a car accident.

Photos, videos, and witness statements can significantly bolster your case. Read on to understand why gathering evidence is essential for personal injury compensation and discover how to do it after a car accident.

Why Is It Important to Preserve Evidence?

Investigators rely on witness statements, photos, and videos of the scene to compose a comprehensive timeline of events before, during, and after the crash. This evidence is crucial for determining liability and securing compensation.

Preserving evidence is essential in establishing an accurate record of the events that led to the car accident. Personal injury lawyers use this evidence to construct a solid foundation for their arguments and build a strong case. It also supports claims for both economic and non-economic damages. Without reliable car accident evidence, victims may struggle to prove their cases and secure the compensation they deserve.

Types of Car Accident Evidence

When pursuing a car accident case, gathering the right evidence is crucial to strengthen your claim. Preserving evidence bolsters your arguments and assists investigators in establishing liability.

Below are the types of car accident evidence you’ll need to preserve:

Photos and Videos

Visual records, such as photographs and surveillance footage, are among the most common and valuable pieces of evidence in a car accident case. They can depict visible injuries, property damages, the precise position of vehicles, and other relevant details at the time of the accident.

Moreover, photos and videos can serve as documentation of the other party’s negligence, such as running a red light or reckless driving behavior. Be vigilant for any surveillance cameras near the accident site and promptly request a copy of the footage for further evidence gathering.

Eyewitness Testimony

Witness statements hold significant weight as they provide authorities with firsthand accounts of the accident. These accounts offer valuable insights into the events leading up to the collision. When witness statements align with investigation findings, they can greatly assist in determining fault.

Recording audio or jotting down witness statements in a journal is an effective way to track collected information. This ensures you have a record of these crucial accounts to strengthen your case and support your claim.

Medical Records and Bills

Gather your medical records and bills to illustrate the extent of your injuries. Obtain key documents, including diagnostic reports and doctor’s notes, to demonstrate the severity of your injuries and any potential long-term implications.

Additionally, collecting medical bills such as invoices for medications and therapy sessions is crucial for estimating the financial damages you’ve incurred. These records provide concrete evidence of the expenses associated with your injuries, strengthening your compensation claim.

How To Preserve Evidence After a Car Accident 

Preserving evidence after a car accident is crucial for building a strong case and securing rightful compensation. 

In this section, we’ll outline essential steps and strategies to help you effectively gather and safeguard key evidence following a collision. 

Acting promptly and methodically can significantly affect the outcome of your case, so let’s explore how to preserve evidence after a car accident.

Here’s how to preserve car accident evidence:

Take Photos of the Accident Scene

Capture multiple photos from different angles to provide a detailed view of the collision. For example, look for skid marks, damage to railings, and any other relevant details. 

Don’t forget to photograph any dilapidated street signs or debris, as well as the damages sustained by all vehicles involved. It’s advisable to back up or print these photos to prevent loss.

Keep Any Physical Evidence of the Accident

Collect any relevant objects or items from the accident scene, such as glass fragments, metal parts, clothing, grease marks, or brush marks. 

These physical pieces of evidence can help reconstruct the events of the accident.

Duplicate and File Paper Documents

Retain all paper documentation related to the accident, including medical records, police reports, and receipts for medical expenses. Make physical or digital copies of these documents and store them securely to prevent loss or damage.

Seek Prompt Medical Attention

It’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly after the accident to obtain medical records and receipts. Delaying treatment may lead to complications with insurance claims.

Talk to Witnesses and Record Their Statements

If possible, gather contact information from eyewitnesses and speak to them as soon as possible. Obtain their consent before recording their statements. 

Witness testimonies can provide valuable insights into the circumstances of the accident and strengthen your case during negotiations or legal proceedings.

What Happens if Your Evidence is Tampered With or Inconsistent

If your evidence is tampered with or inconsistent, it can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here’s what may happen:

• Diminished Validity: As time passes, evidence such as bruises or debris may diminish or disappear entirely, potentially weakening your case.
• Fading Witness Memories: Witness memories may fade over time, making their testimonies less reliable and accurate.
• Challenged Validity: If your evidence is inconsistent or tampered with, it may be challenged by opposing parties, including insurance companies or legal opponents.

To mitigate these risks, it’s crucial to secure evidence promptly after the accident. Seek legal assistance from your attorney to start building a strong claim as soon as possible. Preserve your evidence in a safe and secure storage to prevent tampering or loss. 

Keep in mind that your insurance company will also conduct its own investigation and gather evidence. If discrepancies arise between your evidence and theirs, your claim may be questioned or denied.

Speak to a Personal Injury Lawyer at Adamson Ahdoot

If you’ve been in a car accident and need guidance on handling your case, our team of experienced lawyers at Adamson Ahdoot is here to assist you. A personal injury attorney can help identify crucial evidence and ensure its preservation.

Schedule a free consultation with one of our premier injury attorneys today by calling (800) 310-1606. We offer consultations in both English and Spanish to accommodate your needs. Don’t delay. Reach out for expert legal assistance today!