How to Gather Evidence for Your Accident Case

An accident reconstruction expert can increase the value of your claim by analyzing the forces that were involved in your crash. They can also provide insight into your injuries and the amount of damage you have sustained.

You'll need to provide proof of your damages, such as medical expenses as well as other costs that are out of pocket. It is recommended to start collecting this evidence immediately at the scene of the accident.

Get Help

If you are in a car crash, getting immediate medical attention is the top priority. If you're able, gather as much information at the accident scene as possible.

Use your phone camera or video camera to capture photos of the vehicles involved, their damage skid marks, and anything else that may help your case later on. You can ask anyone who was at the scene to give you their contact information as well as a brief description of what they saw. Be careful not to reveal any personal information regarding your insurance coverage and policy limits.

Also, search for cameras in the vicinity that could have captured the incident like red light or security cameras. You can request copies of the footage by calling the person that operated the cameras.

Documenting your expenses is another important step. In some instances, you could get compensation for money you spent on things like renting a car while your vehicle was being repaired or a ride from and to work when you were recovering from an injury. You can also seek compensation for lost wages in the past and in the future, if your injuries hinder or limit your earnings in future.

Make sure you keep the track of all medical expenses related to the collision. If your injuries cause an ongoing impairment, it might be possible to claim damages to cover future medical expenses. This could include home modifications and assistive equipment that allows you to continue living at your home or at work. You may also be able to claim compensation for any additional financial losses, such as the cost of a caregiving provider or household replacement services if your injuries make it difficult for you to perform these chores yourself.

Gathering Evidence

The first step in any accident case is to gather as much evidence as possible. State-by-state, the requirements for presenting proof in a courtroom can differ. However, certain kinds of evidence are beneficial in all accidents.

Witness Testimony

In cases of accidents eyewitness testimony may be essential. It provides a factual account of the incident that can aid in determining the cause. There are numerous witnesses who can be identified, including pedestrians, motorists of nearby vehicles, and even family members or friends. They may have their smartphones, which they can use to record their statement or to give a written report.

Photographic Evidence

The most obvious form of photographic evidence are photos taken of the accident scene. The evidence can include a road that has been slick, broken glasses, and the damage to the vehicles involved in the accident. This can include environmental factors such as traffic signals and construction sites which may have contributed to the accident.

Police Reports

The police reports generated after any type of motor vehicle crash are vital for a lawsuit involving a car accident. The reports may include the officer's opinion on who was at fault for the accident as also any traffic violations that the driver was guilty of. It is important to obtain an official copy of the report as soon as you can, or at the very least while it's still being written so that you can have an opportunity to check the accuracy of the information.

Contact Information for Witnesses

It's a good idea collect as much information from any witnesses who may have witnessed the incident. Ask to have their names and contact information so that your attorney can ask them to give a statement about what they saw during the accident and the immediate aftermath.

Medical Records

If you're injured in a car accident, it will be essential to keep track of all medical appointments. These records will document the injuries that you've sustained and will help your legal team to calculate the amount of compensation you're entitled to for the damage you sustained.

Documenting Your Injuries

You should capture photos and videos of the area where the accident occurred as long as you can do it without putting your health in danger. Whether you use your cellphone or a camera that is attached to your car, this will let you paint a precise image of the scene. The photos should include the vehicles and any visible injuries or damages caused by the accident. It is important to note any skid marks, road conditions and other details that can help in creating a more precise image of the accident.

Even if you believe your injuries aren't serious it is important to seek medical attention as soon after the accident as possible. Many injuries, including soft tissues neck and back issues may take days or even weeks to manifest. The sooner you see an acupuncturist, the sooner you will have more evidence to back your claim that the accident caused the injury and loss.

It is also important to keep an eye on the medical costs and treatment. Save receipts for prescriptions, equipment, and travel expenses to and from medical appointments, since they are all eligible expenses that you could be able to claim compensation for. You should also keep journals or a diary of your injuries and associated symptoms, which will help you document the daily extent of your discomfort.

It is important to give the police a complete account of the incident. However it is also suggested to note down the names and contact information of witnesses. Witnesses might be able to provide additional details which will assist the police with their investigation, and in the event that you need to make an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit in the future.

It is also recommended to obtain an insurance company of the party that was at fault. This report can be helpful in determining the responsibility of the accident, as well for the potential damages that could be incurred, including property damage, medical expenses, lost wages and other costs that are compensable.

Negotiating with the Insurance Company

If you're dealing with a large insurance company following an accident, it's always wise to retain an experienced attorney. They can negotiate better settlements and negotiate with insurance adjusters on your behalf.

Your lawyer will require financial documents from your employer as well as bank accounts to show the impact of your injury on your earnings. They will also seek medical records from your healthcare providers to help support your injury claim. You may be required to attend an interview or take a deposition on the incident to get an official report. They will then examine all the evidence and consult with experts when determining what the non-economic damage you suffered is worth.

After assembling all the necessary details and preparing a letter of demand that is to be sent to the insurance company at fault. This document will outline the facts of the situation as well as the legal basis for why their insured is liable under NY law, and also make an offer of compensation. Insurance companies often respond with an offer of low-cost. Your lawyer will assist you in deciding whether you want to accept, decline or go back to discussions with the counteroffer.

You should be cautious when negotiating with the insurance company because what you say could affect your case. Don't admit to fault or swear to not sue. This can be used in court later against you. It is also important to refrain from making statements regarding your injuries or the way the accident occurred, as they could be used to limit your claim.

An experienced Long Island car accident lawyer can assist you with insurance company negotiations. They will be able to assess the offers made and advise you on the amount you're entitled to in terms of financial compensation and what medical treatment or expenses you'll need in the future.

The insurance company can be tricky to deal with and a lot of their tactics are intended to convince you to accept the lowest offer you're entitled to. Be firm when you negotiate and keep in mind that any settlement you negotiate must be written. This will prevent an unprofessional adjuster from making a claim over the phone, only to deny it later.