Accidents can happen unexpectedly, and in the aftermath, it’s crucial to preserve as much evidence as possible. In fact, it can make or break your case and you can bet that attorneys and insurance companies representing the opposing party will use a lack of properly collected and preserved evidence against you. Here are a few essential steps to take immediately after an accident.
Get Medical Attention Immediately
The first and most important step after any accident is to seek medical attention. Not only is it vital for your health, but it also creates an official record of your injuries. It’s recommended that you get checked within 72 hours. Failing to do so can raise doubts about the existence or extent of your purported injury, which can severely impact your personal injury case.
Make sure you follow the doctor’s instructions and attend all follow-up appointments. Medical records, including diagnoses, treatments and any prescribed medications will serve as key evidence in proving the extent of your injuries.
Document the Scene of the Accident
The scene of the accident is critical for establishing the facts. If you are physically able, take photos or videos of the scene as soon as possible. Capture everything that could be relevant, including:
- The location of the accident
- Any damages to vehicles or property
- Road conditions, traffic signs and signals (in the case of car accidents)
- Injuries you sustained
- Weather conditions at the time
In some cases, it may be necessary to obtain surveillance footage from nearby businesses or homes. If you see security cameras around, make a note of their location so that you or your attorney can request the footage. The sooner this footage is preserved, the better.
Collect Witness Information
Eyewitnesses can provide important testimony that supports your version of events. After an accident, talk to anyone who may have seen what happened and gather their contact information. If they are willing, ask them to provide a statement describing what they witnessed.
Witnesses may provide crucial details that can help establish fault, especially if the other party involved denies liability or gives a false account of what happened. Keep a record of their statements, including any notes on what they saw and heard.
Preserve Physical Evidence
Physical evidence is often the strongest type of proof in personal injury cases. In the case of a car accident, take photos of any damage to your vehicle and any other vehicles involved, as well as the location of the crash. If possible, avoid repairing your vehicle immediately, as the damage can serve as evidence. If your clothing or personal items were damaged during the accident, keep them in their original condition, as they can serve as evidence of the accident’s impact.
Notify the Insurance Companies
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Make sure to provide them with all the relevant details, but avoid admitting fault or making any statements that could be misconstrued. Your attorney can guide you on how to communicate with insurance representatives to protect your interests.
Also, if there is another party involved in the accident, their insurance company may attempt to contact you. It’s essential not to discuss the accident in detail with their insurance adjuster without consulting an attorney first.
Keep a Record of Expenses and Losses
Maintaining a record of all your expenses and losses following an accident is crucial. These can include medical bills, repair costs, lost wages due to missed work and any other financial impact the accident has had on your life. Keep receipts, invoices and pay stubs to substantiate these costs.
In addition, document the emotional and physical toll the accident has had on you. This may include pain and suffering, mental distress and any limitations caused by your injuries. Journals and personal notes can help support your claims for non-economic damages.
Consult with an Attorney
Preserving evidence is just one part of building a strong case after an accident. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial to ensuring that your evidence is used effectively in your claim. An attorney can help guide you through the legal process, gather additional evidence, and ensure that your rights are protected.
At Farrar, Hennesy and Tanner, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of an accident can be. We offer free case reviews, where we can assess your situation and advise you on the best course of action to take. Our team of dedicated personal injury attorneys is here to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call 912-384-2287 or schedule a consultation online today.