If you’ve ever been involved in a car accident, you’ll likely be familiar with the physical pain, financial burden, and inordinate stress that come with it. Knowing the type of evidence needed to support your car accident claim can significantly influence the outcome and can make all the difference in your mission to obtain the compensation that you need to cover your damages.
The Most Important Types of Evidence for a Claim
The collecting of evidence can and should begin from the moment the accident occurs. Many types of evidence must be collected later, such as the official police report. Other types of evidence, such as the contact information of any witnesses to the accident, may be lost forever if not collected at the scene of the accident. The most important types of evidence include:
- The police report: Always call the police after an accident. The responding officer will create a police report that details the incident, which can be pivotal in your claim. This report typically includes the officer’s observations about the scene of the accident and statements made by either of the parties involved, and occasionally it also includes an initial assessment of fault.
- Photographs and videos: Visual evidence can be very compelling in court, and it is key to negotiating with insurance companies. Take photos and videos of the accident scene, all vehicles involved, any visible injuries that you or the other driver suffered, and road conditions.
- Witness statements: If there were witnesses to the accident, their testimony can be used to back up your claim. Collect their contact information and, if possible, record a video of them recounting what they saw. Your attorney can integrate these statements into your official claim or admit them as evidence in court.
- Medical records: Seek medical attention immediately after an accident, even if you feel fine in the moment. Some injuries can take several days to manifest. Detailed records of your injuries, treatment plans, and medical expenses are essential for proving the full extent of the physical damages that you suffered and for which you are seeking compensation.
- Proof of financial loss: Carefully document any days of work you missed, wage loss, and other financial impacts of the accident, as well as any costs related to repairing damage to your vehicle or replacing damaged items. Keep a detailed record and receipts of all related expenses just in case, even if you’re not sure how relevant they may be.
Your attorney will inform you as to your options for seeking compensation, whether from the insurance company or from the other driver. If your case comes down to a court battle, all of this collected evidence will make your case that much more compelling.
After a car accident, the first steps you take can make all the difference on the outcome of your legal claim. Collecting the right evidence and involving an attorney early are the two most important elements of a successful claim. With luck, your effort will pay off and you’ll be made whole with an adequate compensation at the end of the process.