How To Take Photos at the Scene of a Car Accident
After a car accident, you may have a million thoughts rushing through your head. Your first thoughts may be to check the safety of your passengers and everyone involved, call the police, and seek medical attention. You may not think about taking pictures of the accident, but knowing how to take photos at the scene of a car accident is just as important.
If you were involved in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, a dedicated car accident attorney could help with your case.
What Photos Can Show
While you may think that photos from the scene are important for insurance purposes, these photos are also important for legal purposes. If you or a passenger were injured in the accident, capturing proof of injury can help you recover the full financial compensation you deserve when you file a claim. Documentation can also prove property or vehicle damage.
The human memory can be unreliable, especially after trying to recollect specific events and the timeline in which they occurred from a traumatic event. The opposing party may try to blame you without understanding the full circumstances. Having photos of the scene can help both you and the opposing party remember details of the accident.
What To Include
Taking the right photos can help you file a successful insurance or legal claim, depending on the course of action you choose.
First, take pictures of any external or internal property damage to all vehicles involved in the accident. This includes damages to road structures, signs, or nearby buildings. You want to capture photos from different angles and be sure to include any skid marks or debris to help assign who was at fault.
Documenting Injuries
Second, take pictures of your injuries. This documentation could help prove that you require financial compensation from your insurance or the opposing party. Some injuries may not be visible until days after the event, so document them as they arise.
Documenting the Scene of the Car Accident
Next, document nearby traffic signs. This will be helpful when you or the opposing party provides a statement reconstructing how the accident occurred.
Witnesses
Lastly, photograph everyone at the crash scene. You may not think that you need to talk to that police officer again, but you may need to later. Your attorney may wish to reach out to a witness or police officer to give a testimony.
Take more photos than you think are necessary when documenting the accident. Important details are often overlooked at first. Whether using a smartphone or a professional camera, ensure the date and time are accurately recorded in the photo’s metadata to help establish the image’s authenticity in court.
Failing to take Photos
If you fail to take photos at the scene of the accident, it may become more difficult to prove your claim. However, you can still take certain steps. Request a copy of the police report, photograph your injuries and vehicle even after leaving the scene, and record the names and contact information of any witnesses.
Present Your Photo Evidence to an Attorney After a Car Accident
If you were recently in a car accident and require legal assistance, contact our office today to speak to an attorney. Understanding how to take photos at the scene of a car accident can make a significant difference when building a strong legal claim. Your images can help establish fault, document injuries, and support the compensation you are entitled to pursue.
Don’t wait—contact us now to review your photo evidence and discuss how we can help you move forward with your claim.
