After a car accident, critical pieces of evidence must be preserved to protect your ability to recover compensation. Here are the types of evidence that are important to collect to ensure a solid case.
If you can remain at the scene, stay and take photos or videos to document the following:
Try to take photos and videos at varying distances and from multiple angles. This type of evidence can help corroborate your version of the events that led up to the accident and who caused it. For example, the damage to the vehicles can possibly show the direction they were traveling before impact, the approximate speed of the oncoming car, and other clues regarding fault.
In addition, documentation that shows damaged vehicle parts, such as shredded tires, may indicate a part defect that contributed to the accident. However, if you were severely injured, emergency responders will immediately transport you to the hospital. In those cases, you may have to ask someone or hire an attorney to collect evidence at the scene for you.
Call the police to report the accident, even if it seems minor. They will arrive on the scene and take an accident report, which can be vital to an insurance company’s decision on fault. The police report will contain details of the officer’s investigation, such as:
If a driver received a citation or was arrested, it can be significant evidence of fault.
Eyewitness statements are crucial. If you notice anyone who might have seen the accident, ask for their contact information and if they can make a brief recorded statement on your phone. Because they have no financial stake in your car accident claim, the insurance company will typically consider their opinion when deciding fault.
Medical records created quickly after the accident that link your injuries to the collision are vital. The at-fault party’s insurance company may deny reimbursement for your medical bills and expenses if you wait too long to seek treatment after the accident. It also allows them the opportunity to argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim, so it is in your best interests to seek treatment even if you believe your injuries are minor. The insurance company will also check that you continued the treatment plan and follow-up care recommended by your doctor.
A Houston car accident lawyer can help ensure you collect the evidence you need to support your claim and hold the at-fault party accountable.