Car accidents can be devastating, leaving you the victim with injuries, property damage, and emotional distress. After a car crash, gathering the proper evidence builds a solid legal case and protects your rights. Learn more about what evidence you need to prove your car accident case and recover the fair compensation you deserve.
1. Police Report
Your police report is a crucial piece of documentation that provides an official accident record and plays a pivotal role in determining fault and liability. It should include:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Statements from drivers, passengers, and witnesses
- Diagrams or sketches of the scene
- Observations of weather and road conditions
- Preliminary determinations of fault, if any
2. Photos, Videos and Cell Phone Records
Visual documentation of the accident scene and vehicle damage can be compelling evidence, according to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). If possible, take photos or videos of:
- All vehicles involved, including license plates and VINs
- Damage to each vehicle
- Skid marks or debris on the road
- Traffic signals, signs, and road markings
- Injuries sustained by anyone involved
- The overall scene, including any relevant landmarks or intersections
Cell phone records may sometimes be relevant if distracted driving is suspected. These records can reveal whether a driver was texting, talking on the phone, or using apps during the accident.
3. Medical Records
Medical reports and bills are essential in a personal injury claim. They document the nature and extent of injuries and the associated treatment costs, providing a clear picture of the accident’s impact on your physical well-being and financial situation. Comprehensive medical records serve as critical evidence to:
- Establish causation
- Quantify economic and non-economic damages
- Prove physical pain and suffering
By documenting your medical journey, you strengthen your case and increase the likelihood of receiving just compensation for all aspects of your injuries.
4. Witness Statements and Expert Witness Testimony
Eyewitness accounts can provide valuable corroborating evidence of the events leading up to and during the accident. Get contact information from witnesses at the scene and ask them to write down or record their observations. Moreover, expert witnesses may be called to testify in complex car accident cases. These experts can include:
- Accident reconstructionists who can analyze the physics of the crash as described by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs
- Medical professionals
- Economists can calculate the losses resulting from the accident, such as lost wages and medical expenses
5. Evidence of Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Severe injuries can rob you of the joy and fulfillment you once found in activities you loved. To claim damages for this type of loss, consider the following evidence which could help strengthen your personal injury case:
- Personal statements – Write a detailed account of how your injuries have affected your ability to engage in previously enjoyable activities. Be specific and provide examples of how your life has changed.
- Statements from friends and family – Gather statements from friends, family members, and colleagues who can attest to the changes they have observed in your lifestyle and emotional well-being since the accident.
- Medical assessments – Your doctor can provide a medical assessment outlining the limitations your injuries have placed on your daily activities and overall quality of life.
- Documentation of previous activities – Gather evidence showcasing your previous level of activity. This could include photos, videos, social media posts, or even receipts and memberships related to hobbies or activities you can no longer participate in.
Connect With Bighorn Law Today
At Bighorn Law, we have the expertise and resources to gather and analyze all relevant evidence in your car accident case. We work tirelessly to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
If you have been injured in a car accident, contact Bighorn Law today for a free consultation by phone or through our convenient contact form. Remember, Bighorn has your back, and we’re here to help you through this difficult time.