Car accidents are among the leading causes of death in the U.S.A. 46,980 deaths were recorded in 2022, while in 2023, the number was 42,338. Despite the decreasing figures, the number of crashes is still alarming, resulting in multiple personal injury cases and lengthy litigation battles in 2024.
If you are a victim, speak with an experienced car accident lawyer to help you handle your case professionally and secure fair compensation. An attorney will also assist in collecting and evaluating evidence. Additionally, they can deal with stubborn insurance companies.
Evidence collection and representation are crucial in a personal injury case. These two factors can make or break your case. Keep reading to understand the dynamics surrounding car accident evidence and how to use it to your advantage.
Type Of Evidence: How To Collect Car Accident Data
Evidence can help you present a strong case in court. But how you record it matters. Let’s look at the different types of evidence.
Picture Evidence
You might need to take some pictures while at the accident scene. Even though it can be challenging, taking photos immediately after the accident is the best way to ensure you capture crucial details. Here are some of the factors to focus on:
● The license plates of the vehicles involved
● Damages recorded
● Photo of the at-fault party
● Injuries sustained (you can ask the medics to take some photos while getting first aid)
Videos
You can also capture and include at least one video. A video can show raw details, including the level of property damage and injuries. Video evidence helps to portray the accident scene and pinpoint the at-fault driver clearly.
Witness Statement
Try to locate someone willing to offer their account of the accident. The on-scene witness can be your last line of defense. You can record their statement via video or audio at the accident site. However, ensure that your witnesses can testify in court.
Police Statements
Authorities record every affected person's statements. This helps them investigate the main cause of the accident.
Other Evidence You Might Need To Prove Your Case
Not all evidence is found or evaluated at the scene of the accident. Additional evidence you might need includes:
● Medical Records: While recovering, you can obtain more evidence, including payment receipts. This information helps prove the monetary level of damages, thus greatly contributing to your total compensation.
● Doctor Statements: Your doctor can also highlight the severity of the injuries.
● Insurance Evaluation: The insurance companies of the parties involved in the accident evaluate the damage and decide whether to settle the issue outside the court.
● Proof Of Lost Wages: Salary stubs, pay slips, or statements from the employer can be helpful in proving the amount of money the victim would have earned if it weren’t for the accident.
How Your Lawyer Helps Regarding Car Accident Evidence
Let’s look at the importance of a lawyer regarding the collection and evaluation of your evidence:
● Getting To Evaluate Police Statements: Your lawyer has the jurisdiction to access and check police statements.
● Communication With The Defense: An attorney can easily interact with the defense or the actual negligent party. They can acquire crucial information and compile it as part of your evidence through their expertise.
● Evaluation Of Photos And Videos Recorded: The advocate helps evaluate relevant evidence, thus eliminating data that can compromise your argument.
● Retrieving Certain Legal Documents: Your lawyer can also obtain crucial documents, such as the at-fault party's previous accident or criminal records. These documents are essential in proving their negligence.
● 3rd Party Witnesses: Using the evidence collected, an attorney can interview the third-party witnesses.
Car Crash Case Conclusion
Evidence is crucial to ensuring you get fair compensation. Additionally, it plays a key role when you are partially liable, helping you build a strong defense and still acquire payment for damages and injuries sustained. Get in touch with an experienced car accident lawyer to understand how to take full advantage of the evidence and work towards a positive outcome.
