How to Document the Scene of an Accident

After a car accident occurs, victims often face a few moments of disbelief and need to get clarity on what to do. If you know what to do before an accident happens, you are ready to take action when it does. Consider the steps you should take to document the scene of an accident when it is safe for you to do so. These steps help protect your well-being and your case. Then, be sure to reach out to an experienced car accident attorney in Lexington at Gary C. Johnson for a free consultation.

Take Photos of the Entire Area

The more images you have of the accident, the better. Once you are out of further injury or harm, call 911 and stay at the scene until help arrives. If you can safely exit your vehicle, use your phone to take photos of the area. This includes:

• A slow-moving video that shows the layout of the accident and the surrounding area
• Wide-angle shots that capture the entire scene in a single image
• The damage to your vehicle and the other car
• All injuries you sustained
• Debris in the roadway
• Weather conditions, if applicable
• Images of signs and signals that relate to the accident scene

Each of these details can help you to prove what happened. Images show exactly where vehicles were and how the collision occurred. They can also be helpful later if accident reconstruction experts are necessary to clarify who is at fault.

In Kentucky, a state that operates on a pure comparative negligence rule, you can seek damages against the other party even if you are at fault. However, your compensation recovery is reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. These photos help to show the fault clearly.

Identifying Information

Take photos or write down evidence that shows who is involved in the accident. The easiest strategy is to take photos of the front and back of the other driver’s license and insurance card. Request the name and contact information for any witnesses at the scene of the accident. That includes passengers in the other vehicle or people who stopped to help you.

Document Your Injuries

It is always important to gather as much information about your injuries as possible right after the incident happens. The most important way to protect evidence related to your injuries is to get to the hospital immediately after the accident so that a full examination occurs. This protects your life as well.

Tell the emergency room you were in a car accident. Describe all areas of pain and discomfort. Be sure to mention if you passed out or struck your head. They will conduct a full examination, including labs and X-rays, to help substantiate your injuries. All of these tools will serve as evidence in your case later.

Then, keep going. Get all of the medical care you need. Document all of your missed time at work and the implications for your quality of life. Be sure that you document all assets damaged or lost in your accident.

Finally, do not overlook your mental health. Meet with a therapist and talk to your doctor about the experience. This can serve to help you recover mentally from the trauma you are facing as well.

Seek the Guidance of an Attorney

There is a great deal of work to do documenting the accident scene and recording all damages. Having a local personal injury attorney in Lexington to help you can prove vital. Call Gary C. Johnson today at (859) 268-4300 to discuss your case today.