When you are in a car crash, you are likely going through an array of emotions. If you or someone in your vehicle or elsewhere is injured, your first concern should be getting medical treatment. You may be unable to make that phone call yourself, but hopefully someone nearby will be able to call 911.
If you are able, your next concern should be with preserving evidence of the accident scene. This means getting photos as soon after the accident as possible. The photos should be of the damaged vehicles, your injuries and any property damage that might have occurred. Here are some tips for taking photos that will provide the best evidence:
— Get photos of every vehicle that was involved in the accident. Try to get different angles of the vehicles, but take care to stay out of traffic.
— Take photos of any traffic lights, stops signs or other signs that might have an effect in the way traffic moves.
— Take photos of the weather. If it is raining or snowing, try to get photos that show the wet pavement.
— If there was property damage, such as a destroyed fence, take photos of it. This will help the insurance adjuster.
— Take closeup photos of the damage on the vehicles. If there is glass in the roadway, dents in the cars or bumpers torn off, take photos closeup to show the extent of the damage.
— Take pictures of the other drivers’ license plates, insurance cards and driver’s licenses.
— Photos of people who are standing around the accident scene could prove useful. Be sure to photograph any witnesses that remained at the scene.
— If you or a family member has visible injuries, take photos. However, you should avoid taking photos of other injured people.
If you are not able to get the photos that are needed, see if someone who is watching the accident scene will help. You may need to come back to the accident site later or take photos of your vehicle once you have received medical treatment.
If you were injured because of another person’s negligent actions, you have a right to seek compensation. An experienced attorney can help you learn more about this process.
Source: FindLaw, “Tips for Car Accident Scene Photography,” accessed May 05, 2017