What Pictures Should I Take After a Motor Vehicle Accident?
Following an auto accident, it is imperative that you or someone with you are able to come up with an accurate depiction of the scene. This is extremely important and as a result, many insurance companies include a disposable camera as a single item in their handouts to their clients so they can be prepared for an emergency. Photos help because, in many situations, the evidence is quickly removed following a car accident. Furthermore, many car accident cases result in a battle of he-said, she-said. Photos help provide a perspective on the accident. In such an event, you need an auto accident attorney and much more.
Photos to Take Following an Auto Accident
Taking pictures following a car accident can help as sufficient evidence.
Vehicle Damage
Taking pictures of the damage that your vehicle sustained will help as evidence in your claim. Make sure to take pictures that are close-up to ensure better detail. Additionally, you should take pictures of any other vehicles that were involved in the accident and the damage those cars sustained.
Evidence Around Accident Site
Make sure to take pictures of the surrounding accident site, such as skid marks on the road, that can indicate a person used their brakes. These pictures can also dictate the possible speed the person was traveling. Take pictures both close up and at a distance. You can also use small items besides the tread marks so that an estimate is easier to calculate. Additionally, you can take photos of any shattered glass, vehicle parts, or other debris that came from the vehicles involved in the accident.
Accident Site
In addition to taking pictures of the surrounding evidence on the site of the accident, you want to make sure that you photograph the geographic location of the accident itself. If any vehicles are moved, take a picture of their approximate location prior to them being moved. Take pictures at a distance to demonstrate if the area was a stopping point, intersection, a lane to merge, etc.
Take photographs of nearby road signs including merge, reduced speed, and stop signs. Take pictures from various angles to ensure you get different vantage points. Remember, the jury doesn’t go to the scene of an accident, so photos can help present them with a better idea of the scene of the accident. This will also help your car accident attorney out.
Picture Pointers
You should make sure that you are aware of the factors that affect the quality of your pictures, such as shadows, sunlight, or weather conditions. Take as many pictures as you can in the event some of them don’t come out well. Experience with various settings on your camera to ensure you take high-quality photos. Keep in mind that you may be limited by the available technology immediately following an accident. However, certain things may still be available for days or even weeks following an accident, including road signs, location designations, and skid marks.
Categorised in: Car Accidents