Use the Witness In Your Pocket!
Car crashes are a shock to the system. We might not think clearly right after due to trauma, confusion and adrenaline, so make a plan now to be prepared in case you’re in a fender-bender or worse.
“Pics or it didn’t happen” is the mantra for social media, but also for auto accidents. Once all the people involved are safe, then take photos and videos to share with your lawyer, insurance companies and juries. Without documentation, your case against the other driver might not garner the compensation you deserve. Comprehensive photos will support your case and can help accurately estimate total damages.
Make sure you carry a portable charger so your phone will have enough power to take photos after a crash. Also store a disposable camera in your glove box as a backup for such an emergency. Following an accident, photos and videos will capture:
Documents
Take photos of the other driver’s plates, license and insurance card or other information. This is quicker than transcribing the details, eliminates errors and doesn’t require you to find pen and paper.
Vehicle damage
Take photos of all damage to all vehicles (not just yours), which can help document how the accident happened. For example, if a red car has a smashed front end, and the yellow car has rear damage with flakes of red paint, that can confirm the crash direction and fault.
Other damage
Take photos of additional physical evidence such as skid marks, broken glass, detached bumpers and other pieces of cars. A complete set of photos and possibly videos can show total damage and who caused the accident.
Closeups and overviews
Closeup photos are crucial to document the severity of the damage right after it happens. Take different angles and make sure each is well-lit (use a flash; also carry a flashlight in the car for situations like this). Remember to take photos of the entire site, from all sides, to help prove how the crash occurred.
Statements
Smartphones also have video recording options, which should be used post-accident too. Record the other driver if you can, as sometimes they might admit guilt, the fact that they were drinking while driving or otherwise impaired, or similar admissions. Pictures are worth a thousand words (at least), but video is priceless.
Use the witness in your pocket: your phone
People almost always have a smartphone available, so make sure you use it (along with a disposable camera) to thoroughly document every aspect of the accident, both micro and macro views, both the vehicles and the overall scene. Video capture any conversations with the other party, especially if they seem impaired.
Ade Adeyemi is an experienced personal injury attorney. She will facilitate for your medical care, employ her legal expertise, and advocate for fair compensation.
The Adeyemi Law Firm: Representation Matters.
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Have you been injured in Texas? Adeyemi Law Firm is here to help you when you need it most. Don’t navigate the stress of fighting insurance companies on your own. Adesola Adeyemi will help you through every step of getting back to normal life after an accident. Call for a free consultation today.