Immediately following a car crash, you should be focusing on your injuries and moving to a safe location. However, something many accident victims do not think about is collecting evidence at the crash scene. Evidence may help prove responsibility in injury cases, which might be vital to your claim’s success. Remember, your safety is the most important, so only collect evidence if it is safe.
Even though you have evidence from the car accident scene, you might not know what to do with it. At Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis, our attorneys can review the evidence and work to hold the negligent party responsible for their actions.
What Evidence Should I Collect at the Car Accident Scene?
Car accident scenes contain a wealth of evidence that might be relevant to proving the other driver was responsible. If you are not severely injured and it is safe, collect this information right away. If you are too hurt, ask a passenger or witness to collect evidence on your behalf. Some of the evidence at the accident scene you should obtain include:
- Photographs: Taking pictures are the most straightforward way to collect evidence at an accident scene. Be sure to photograph the damage to both vehicles. Your attorney may be able to use these images to prove liability. Documenting road and weather conditions may also aid your injury claim. Taking photos of your injuries can also be helpful.
- Contact information: You should exchange contact information with the other driver, including name, phone number, license plate number, and insurance policy information. Having this information will help if you later decide to pursue a claim against them.
- Witness contact information: You will also want to obtain the contact information of any witnesses. Witnesses tend to be neutral parties who do not have a financial investment in the case’s outcome. You must remember that witnesses do not have a legal obligation to stay at the accident scene, so you will want to obtain their name and phone number right away.
Staying Safe When Collecting Evidence at the Car Accident Scene
One of the most crucial things car accident victims should do is move their vehicle if it is still operable. Moving your car is especially important if your crash happened on a highway or interstate where cars travel at high speeds. If you can, pull over to the shoulder and out of the traffic flow. Doing this may reduce the risk of another car hitting yours and causing further damage. It can also keep you safe while photographing vehicle damage.
You must remember that there could be times when it is not safe to collect evidence. For example, the other driver may be angry, even if they were at fault for the accident. If the other driver starts yelling at you or aggressively walks toward you, get back in your vehicle and lock the doors. Avoid eye contact and wait for the police to arrive. Additionally, there might not be enough room on the shoulder to safely walk around the vehicle. When the police arrive, they might redirect traffic. Then you might be able to photograph vehicle damage.
Speak to a Skilled Auto Accident Lawyer in Orlando Today
Florida’s personal injury laws can be complex. One misinterpretation may cost you your entire settlement. Do not risk losing out on compensation needed to cover medical bills, property damage costs, and other accident-related expenses, and contact the Orlando car accident attorneys at Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis.
Not only do our attorneys know what evidence is needed to prove liability, but we also know how to use that evidence to build a robust case against the negligent driver. Our attorneys have more than 100 years of combined experience representing accident victims throughout Central Florida and have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for our clients. To schedule a free consultation, call (407) 843-7060 or complete our online contact form.