After a car crash, it is vital to collect evidences to build a strong case for injury lawsuit or insurance claim. More proofs to support damage claims can possibly obtain a verdict or settlement in your favor. Transport accident lawyers understand the significance of evidence in car accident claim and what kinds of proof, documentation or information one must gather. So, it is wise to hire the most ideal one to do all the hectic legwork.
Burden of Proof
After a car accident, the burden of proof for getting hold of compensation obviously lies on the injured party. The person seeking recompense for damages is called ‘Plaintiff’, who carries the burden of establishing the fact that the car accident was due to the other driver’s fault. At-fault driver is responsible for the injury and damages suffered by the plaintiff.
It is necessary to validate all the claims (physical injuries and lost wages) with evidence, so as to support your version of how the accident occurred and its devastating result.
There are different kinds of evidence including medical records & bills, witness statements and photographs.
Types of Evidence to Gather
- Accident scene evidence
An apparently, minor car fender-bender can turn out to be a disorientating experience. Therefore, after the crash, check your passengers and any other drivers. If there are obvious injuries, then call for paramedics. Apart from the severity of injuries, remember to call the police. Creating a police report at the accident scene is crucial to ascertain, which driver is at fault legally.
Gather all applicable evidence from the accident scene. Name, contact number, address, vehicle plate number, driver’s license number, and insurance information of all drivers involved. In case any of the drivers involved in the accident were going on an errand for their employer, then note down their company’s name and contact number.
Names and mobile numbers of witnesses, present at the time of accident must be gathered. Ask if anyone clicked photos, so as to get copies for evidence.
- Photographs and videos for best evidence
If you can take pictures instantly with your Smartphone, then do it. Click close ups and further away photos from all direction. You never know, which angle will illustrate the accident scenario in the best way. Take pictures of skid marks from either or both cars, if any. You can video shoot it from afar to have panoramic view of skid marks.
In car accident lawsuits, photographs and videos are worthy. If the driver of the other car denies seeing you coming, then the photos will show that the accident location could be seen clearly from at least 500 feet. This allows the jury to think that the driver was not paying attention, while driving and is lying.
Photos and videos of vehicle damages from all angles – afar and close-up can reveal to the juries and insurers a lot about how the vehicles collided, their speed and who is at fault.
- Evidence of damages
Gather records related to recent repairs or enhancements made, before the accident. If the car was totaled during the accident, then you can increase its value with the proof of recently replaced engine parts or four tires. Physical injuries documentation will include medical records, diagnostic reports, medical bills, therapists involved. Due to injury, you had to take a break from work, so gather information associated with lost wages.
Collect as much proof as possible and strengthen your injury and car insurance claim case. Obtain the best settlement!