- Although the scene of an accident can be chaotic and stressful, it’s important to focus on gathering information in case a future legal claim is necessary
- Collect information such as photos, witness contact information, statements, and police generated accident reports, even if the collision seems minor.
- Collecting and preserving evidence will help your claim if injuries or property damage are worse than originally thought.
The Law Office of Joseph J. Perrini III is committed to helping accident victims navigate the immediate aftermath of a collision for the best possible outcome if filing a claim is necessary. If safety is not an issue and injuries aren’t considerable, taking immediate action after an accident, such as calling the police and gathering evidence, helps establish an official record, preventing disputes about the cause of damages.
Taking the Right Steps After a Car Accident in Nassau and Suffolk Counties
Capturing the Scene Through Photos and Video
Gathering evidence after a car accident will involve taking photos and videos of not just the entire scene, but close-ups of the damage to all vehicles, such as dents, scratches, and broken parts, and of the license plates of the cars involved. Any pictures of damage should be taken at multiple angles to ensure all details, including hidden damage or debris obscured by shadows or glare, are revealed. In addition, take photos or videos of any injuries, such as bruising or swelling, as conditions can change rapidly in the days following the event.
While photos and videos of damage, vehicle positions, and injuries are a good start to substantiate any claims, environmental factors can also be documented in this way. The camera can capture the locations of traffic signals, obscured signage, current weather conditions, and visible skid marks, which can further help determine liability.
The Role of Independent Witness Statements
There may be drivers in cars not involved in the accident, pedestrians, or occupants of nearby businesses or buildings who may be able to further determine liability by telling what they witnessed. It’s important that you approach them as soon as it’s safe to do so because witnesses often leave the scene quickly once emergency services arrive. Approach them by politely introducing yourself, explaining your involvement, and asking for their name, phone number, and email.
However, it may not be enough to only ask for their contact information. Memories fade quickly and may contain inaccuracies when recalled later. So ask if you can record their statements via phone memo or video. Ask what they saw or observed without prompting them to take sides.
Securing Official Reports and Digital Documentation
Although the accident may seem minor, the police should still be called to ensure an official accident report is filed and evidence is preserved. The police are an impartial third party that can objectively document the scene as understood through experience.
Use dashcams, security cameras, or doorbell cameras to further substantiate claims. Make sure to check nearby businesses or residences as soon as possible, before video footage of the incident is overwritten.
Next, seek medical attention even if there are no visible injuries or pain. Hidden injuries that may provoke symptoms to emerge some time after the accident can be found and documented sooner rather than later. Keep and maintain a file that contains medical receipts, repair estimates, and a personal journal of pain levels and recovery milestones.
Contact the Law Office of Joseph J. Perrini, III for Professional Guidance
Prompt evidence preservation in the aftermath of an accident is one of the keys to achieving the best possible outcome for auto accident claims, but that may not be enough.
The Law Office of Joseph J. Perrini III helps Long Island accident victims gather, preserve, and leverage evidence effectively. From subpoenaing records to working with accident reconstruction experts, our team ensures your case is built on strong, documented proof.
You lose nothing by reaching out for a free consultation to ensure your rights are protected and that the evidence you gathered is handled correctly.
Image credit: // Shutterstock // one photo
