Being involved in a car crash can be physically and emotionally distressing, and the last thing you want to do is snap photos of damaged vehicles while you wait for the police to arrive. However, every piece of evidence is valuable if you want to claim compensation for personal injuries or property damage or take legal action.

Your lawyer can use different types of evidence to prove who was responsible for a road accident and what the consequences were, and many are lost forever if you don’t act quickly after a crash.

Photos of the Scene of the Car Accident

Most people carry a cellphone with them, making it easy to take photos of the accident scene. Photographic evidence is one of the best ways to show what happened in an accident and therefore determine liability.

Take as many photos and videos as you can from as many angles as possible. Include:

• All vehicles involved in the accident
• Property damage
• Guardrails
• Debris and broken glass
• Skid marks
• Traffic volume
• Surrounding area
• Visible personal injuries

Pay special attention to poor road conditions, such as potholes, broken traffic lights, and missing or damaged road signs. If the other vehicle’s driver is visibility impaired, for instance, if they are drunk, try to capture some video evidence of this. However, be careful, remain polite, and don’t start a confrontation.

Document What Happened

It’s surprising how easy it is to forget details, especially from traumatic events. If there are any inconsistencies in your testimonials of the incident, the insurance company will use it to avoid paying out. As soon as you can, write down everything that happened, including as much detail as possible.

Witness Contact Information

It’s essential that all parties involved in a motor vehicle accident exchange contact details for insurance purposes. However, you should also swap details with witnesses of the accident. You can also ask them to write down what they saw happen while it’s fresh in their minds since if they are questioned later, this can help avoid discrepancies.

Medical Records and Receipts

Even if they don’t feel hurt on the scene, car accident victims should always seek medical attention after an accident occurs as many injuries take some time to get noticed. This is not only important for your physical health, but it’s also crucial for your case.

Keep copies of all medical records, prescriptions, and appointments, including receipts for over-the-counter medication, such as painkillers. This gives an accurate picture of the cost of your injuries.

Car Maintenance Records

These documents may provide important information about the state of your vehicle after the crash and if a mechanical problem caused the accident.

Records of Absence From Work

Part of your compensation for being involved in a car accident can include loss of income if you cannot return to work because of physical or emotional limitations. Car accidents can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder, besides physical injuries. To receive this compensation, you need to prove that you haven’t been working.

Police Report

To file an insurance claim, you typically must report your accident to the police. Request a copy of the report as soon as possible.

Seeking Legal Advice After a Car Accident

Obtaining your rightful compensation is a lengthy and complex process that is much easier with the help of an experienced attorney. They can get certain pieces of evidence, such as black box data, cell phone records, and incriminating social media posts, that you can’t, and can also find expert witnesses.

If you’ve been involved in a car crash and are looking for a trusted law firm for advice and support, call Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C. Our skilled team of attorneys will work hard to secure the compensation you deserve. Get in touch today at 1-888-MICH LAW (1-888-642-4529) to schedule your free consultation.