Tips for Car Accident Scene Photography
Posted on September 18, 2017 Written By: iadminlaw
Being involved in an automobile accident can be traumatizing, even when the injuries are quite minor. In the immediate aftermath of the accident, it may be difficult to think clearly. Even so, it’s important to do anything and everything you can to preserve evidence from the accident scene. Doing so will maximize the odds of your insurance claim being processed promptly and fairly; it will also be helpful in the event that you find yourself in court.
One way to preserve evidence of the accident scene is to take some pictures. Thankfully, we all have cameras built into our phones, so this should never really be an issue. (You might keep a small disposable camera in your glove compartment, just in case your mobile device becomes damaged or lost in the accident.) The question is, what exactly should you be taking pictures of?
Accident Scene Photography Tips
According to the California car accident attorneys at I Accident Lawyer, the things you should be taking photographs of include:
A general view of the accident scene. Try to get multiple photos that encompass the entirety of the scene; the point here isn’t to get details, but just a general sense of how and where the vehicles collided.
Photos of each vehicle involved. Make sure you get individual photos of each vehicle involved, as well—including photos of any areas of the vehicles that are damaged, and also pictures of the license plates.
Pictures of other objects damaged by the collision. If there was damage done to a guard rail, for example, make sure you capture that, as well.
Pictures of any nearby traffic signs. If there are any traffic signs or stop lights nearby, make sure you snap some pictures of them.
Photos of the weather conditions. If there is snow, ice, or standing water on the road—or if there are clouds in the sky—it doesn’t hurt to take some pictures showing these inclement conditions.
Photos of road conditions. Skid marks, potholes, roadside debris—all of this could be relevant to the case, and deserves photographic record-keeping.
Images of any visual injuries. If you or your passengers sustained any visible injuries—cuts, bruises, etc.—it’s important to document those, as well.
The bottom line: Take as many detailed photographs as you can. The more information you have at your disposal, the more likely it is that you’ll be able to resolve your claim expediently and get the compensation that’s your due. Note: Photographs do not replace detailed police reports. You really need both, so always make sure you call the police to the scene to establish baseline facts.
Fight for Your Auto Accident Claim
When you’re involved in an auto accident, it can be scary—but there are steps you can take to protect your rights. Snapping photographs is an important part of that. So is getting a consultation from a California car accident lawyer. Reach out to I Accident Lawyer to make that happen.
