After a collision, the last thing on most car or motorcycle accident victims’ minds is collecting evidence in case you have to file a lawsuit against the driver who hit you. However, the most successful car or motorcycle accident verdicts or settlements usually have one thing in common—solid evidence proving what happened and showing how bad the accident was.
If you think you might have to file an accident claim, you are probably wondering how do you prove the other side is at fault?
Photographic Evidence
We have all heard the expression that a picture is worth a thousand words. This tried and true adage rings especially true at the trial of a car or motorcycle accident injury case when the picture in question is of the plaintiff’s vehicle or motorcycle following a collision. Such photographs often serve as the single most important piece of evidence through which jurors view all of the other evidence in the case.
You should take wide-angle pictures that show the angles of the vehicles involved. Also, take close-up shots of injuries, skid marks and property damage. If the accident happened because a driver broke a traffic law, take photos of streetlights, speed limit signs and other traffic markers. You will want your photos to tell the story of the accident.
Keep in mind that the police may take pictures if they feel the photographs are relevant to the investigation or violation, however, there is no rule requiring them to photograph every accident scene. Often, the police DO NOT photograph the accident scene. To be careful, it is best to always try to take your own photos if you are able, or if you are unable under the circumstances, try to have someone with you take photos of the accident scene.
If you have been injured in an Iowa car or motorcycle accident, please contact us for a free case evaluation.