Benefits of Preserving Evidence in a Car Accident Case

A car crash can change your life in a moment. Maybe you were driving on the highway and a vehicle cut you off, you were hit by a drunk or distracted driver, or hazardous road conditions caused the other car to slide into yours. Now you’re facing unexpected injuries, repairs, and other consequences.

Preserving car accident evidence is vital if you want to file a claim. Here’s what you need to know about why evidence at the car accident scene is so important and what you can do to preserve it.

Why Is Preserving Evidence Important?

After an accident, you will likely want to file an insurance claim to pay for property damage or medical bills. Insurance companies may try to discredit your claim, so you’ll need to gather car accident evidence to support your case and prove that you were not at fault for the accident.

In addition, you may end up facing litigation after a bad accident. Evidence can help you defend yourself should the other party sue you or support your case should you sue them.

What Kind of Evidence Should You Gather at the Crash Site?

Before you leave the scene of the car crash, take photographs of the following:

• Any property damage, including damage to your vehicle
• The license plate of the other vehicle
• Your injuries
• The other driver’s license
• The other driver’s insurance information
• The accident scene at large

You’ll want to talk to the other driver to request some of this information. Ask for their name and contact information; should issues arise later, your attorney can reach out for more information.

In addition, you’ll want to gather witness testimony. Write down as much as you can and request contact information so you can follow up.  Finally, always call the police and request that they come to the scene. 

What Evidence Can You Gather After You Leave the Site?

While it’s beneficial to remain on the site to find information, you may not always be able to do so. If that happens, request a police report. The report will contain important documentation that can support your claim.

In addition, you’ll want to collect medical documentation to illustrate the extent of your injuries. Medical bills, doctor’s statements, and information about continued treatment can all be beneficial for your claim.

If you know anyone who was at the scene of the accident, consider calling them for a witness statement. Working with an attorney can be invaluable here, as they can help track down witnesses and gather additional important evidence.

Speak to an Attorney About Your Car Accident Case

Car accidents can be frightening experiences, but it’s important to stay level headed. Think carefully about the evidence you’ll need to gather, document what you can, and consider contacting an attorney for assistance.

At Fadduol, Cluff, Hardy & Conaway, P.C., we’re prepared to guide you through your case. We’ll assist in gathering car accident evidence, provide advice about handling your claim, and offer guidance for legal proceedings. If you’d like to learn more, call 800-433-2408 or fill out our contact form to request a free consultation.