You must preserve evidence to win a personal injury claim. Your claim is proven by the evidence that you provide. There are several things you can do to make sure you gather evidence to support your case.
Return to the Crash Scene
If you were involved in a hit and run, there are several things you can do to gather evidence. Go to the site of the crash and photograph it.
Make sure you look for any signs of evidence, such as any small parts that may have fallen from the other car, such as mirrors, chrome, hubcaps, and so forth.
It may also be a good idea to keep an eye out for things like:
- Issues with visual clearance
- Malfunctioning traffic light(s)
- Missing traffic signs
You must make sure every detail is documented. This is very important to prove liability. Since it is a hit and run crash, you must consider that the other driver might not be found and the claim might be with your uninsured motorist policy.
Take Photographs
Photograph the accident scene in detail. Make sure you get photos from all angles so the line of site for all drivers involved is clearly documented. Make sure you get a photo from your point of view and the other driver’s point of view at the time of impact.
You need to get photos at the same time of day and on the same day of the week so you can recreate the scene at the time of the crash.
This will show the flow of traffic, the views, and how traffic reacts in this particular area at this time of the day.
Get a third-party, which can be a relative or your lawyer, to handle the documentation of the photos. These details will help show the angle, location, time, and date that the picture was taken. This is helpful in proving fault as well.
Keep and Protect Any Physical Evidence
Your claim needs physical evidence to support it as well. These are things that people can touch or see, such as your torn clothing or damaged items like your phone or eyeglasses.
Photographs can help you preserve the evidence, especially if taken right after the crash. Make sure you get some pictures before the accident scene has been changed to fix any problems that might have existed.
Collect Information From Witnesses
Make sure you get the names and contact information for any witnesses. Witnesses can play a major role in personal injury cases. If you don’t have the contact information, your personal injury attorney can take care of it.
Lawyers know how to track down witnesses and how to approach them for questioning.
Consider Legal Help
A personal injury lawyer can improve your odds of a successful personal injury claim. Your lawyer can assist in preserving and gathering evidence.
You should consult with an attorney as quickly as possible to make sure your rights are protected and you are treated fairly.
