Tips for preserving evidence after a car accident

Being involved in a car accident can leave you feeling disoriented. If anyone has been injured, it is vital to get medical attention for them right away. But it is also important to preserve and gather evidence – particularly if you are filing an injury or property damage claim.

The best time to begin preserving evidence is immediately following the accident. The photos, testimonials and other evidence you gather early in the process could become crucial evidence in your case.

Below are some tips for gathering and preserving car crash evidence:

• Police report – It is important to obtain a copy of the police report related to your accident. If the police were not on the scene, you also can file a report at the police department.
• Witness testimony – Although the police will also interview any witnesses, it can help your case to obtain these on your own as well. Be sure to obtain contact information and their account of the accident.
• Photos and video – Take photos and video of your injuries, damage to your vehicle and anything else to help with your claim. You can document:
  • Your visible injuries
  • Damages to your vehicle and others involved in the crash
  • Anything that contributed to the accident such as road damage, debris or bad weather
  • The accident scene as a whole
• Personal notes – Write down your personal accounts of the accident and continue to do so as you remember key bits of information.
• Medical records – If you were injured, obtain copies of all your hospital and clinic visits and related treatments.

It also may be in your best interests to contact an attorney to help with your injury claim. They can make sure your best interests are protected throughout the legal process.