8 tips drivers need to know for capturing photo evidence after a crash
If you were hurt in a car accident in the Atlanta area, you may be able to recover financial compensation. But it’s important to build a strong case. Taking photos of the accident scene soon after the crash can help support your insurance company claim and a lawsuit if it gets to that point. Here are some tips for getting good pictures of what happened.
1. Take photos as soon as you can.
There can be a lot happening right after a collision. The people involved in the crash are processing what just happened. Police and EMTs may arrive on the scene and are checking to see if anyone needs help. The vehicles and accident scene will be cleared up shortly, so there isn’t much time. If you can do so, start taking photos.
2. Use different perspectives.
Take pictures from different distances and angles. Walk around the vehicles to get photos from all sides. Close-up shots can present a clearer picture of vehicle damage. Taking photos from a distance can help you capture the position of the vehicles after the crash.
3. Don’t ignore any details.
You never know what photos could be helpful when making a claim for compensation. So if something catches your eye, take a picture. It could be broken glass, leaking fluid, a deployed airbag, damaged tires, road conditions, landmarks, or traffic signs.
4. Take photos with and without the flash.
Lighting conditions can impact the quality of your photos and can vary greatly at an accident scene. A picture may look blurry or distorted if the lighting is not good. That’s why it can help to take photos with and without a flash.
5. Get photos of the wider area, too.
This can help you document the conditions at the time of the accident and the results of the crash. For example, take photos of any skid marks or debris on the road. Document traffic signs and signals. You can also take pictures or videos of weather conditions, such as heavy rain or wind.
6. Document your injuries.
Take photos of any visible injuries you have, or ask someone to take them. Along with medical records, these photos can provide evidence for the insurance company that you were hurt during an accident and needed medical treatment.
7. Share information – and take photos.
After a crash, it's important to ask for the other driver’s information and write it down. However, in the aftermath of an accident, you might write down something wrong or transpose numbers incorrectly. As such, you should also take photos of the other driver’s license, registration, and insurance information if you can. Allow your documents to be photographed, as well. This can help avoid errors and confusion later on.
8. Take as many photos as you can.
Don’t even think about whether you are taking more than you need. You can always go back and delete any photos that aren’t relevant. But you’ve only got one chance to take pictures of the accident scene. The more photos you can get, the better.
A car accident lawyer can help you build a strong case for compensation
Getting trusted legal advice as soon as possible after a car accident is important. At the Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays & Associates, P.C., one of our experienced car accident attorneys can review the details of your crash and go over your potential legal options for recovering compensation. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
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