Getting into a car accident can be a disorienting experience, but it's crucial not to forget to document as many details of the event as possible. Taking photographs of the accident is one of the best ways to ensure that all the essential details are recorded accurately.
By doing so, you'll have an accurate record of what happened, which is vital for insurance claims, legal action, and additional investigations that might need to be carried out in the aftermath of an accident. Keep reading to learn a few tips on how to document your accident.
5 Tips for Taking Car Accident Scene Photos
1. Take Photos Right After the Accident
Car accidents can be overwhelming and figuring out what to do after one can be a challenge. However, it's important to quickly capture the scene as accurately as you can, which includes documenting the position of the cars and the condition of the road.
Tips for photo taking:
- Take photos of the scene and your car including the front, sides, and back.
- Photograph any damage to your car interior and exterior.
- Take photos with and without flash.
- Hold objects in photos for size comparison of scratches, dents, etc.
However, it’s important to remember your health and safety come first. Only take accident pictures if it's safe to do so. If you're unable to take photos because of injury or other reasons, delegate that responsibility to a passenger, a loved one, or a helpful witness.
2. Photograph from Multiple Angles & Distances
When it comes to documenting an accident scene, the photos taken should be a summary of everything that happened. These photos will serve as evidence and can greatly assist in determining fault or liability. It's important to take pictures from different angles and distances to ensure that nothing is missed.
Tips for angle and distance photographing include:
- Take close ups from one to five feet from an object.
- Take medium distance photos from 10 to 15 feet away.
- If safe to do so, take long distance photos from 20 or more feet away.
Whether it's close-ups of individual parts of your car or long shots of the entire scene, your photos should aim to capture every detail. By being extra thorough, you can provide anyone with the evidence they need to determine what happened.
3. Document the Surrounding Area
It's also important to carefully document the surrounding area. These details help paint a clearer picture of what happened and can possibly explain why the accident occurred. This can be crucial in supporting your insurance claim.
Surrounding area photos may include:
- Weather conditions
- Traffic signs
- Road debris
- Skid marks
- Broken glass
- Road signs
By taking photos of the entire scene, you'll have a thorough record of all the elements that played a part in the accident.
4. Take Photos of Your Injuries
It's important to remember to take photos of any injuries you sustain in a crash, no matter how minor they may seem at the time. Small wounds can heal quickly and bruises can fade, making it harder to prove the extent of your injuries later on.
If you're unable to take photos yourself, don't be afraid to ask for help from a friend or family member. These pictures can be incredibly valuable for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Make sure to take photos as your injuries heal as well, in case you need to document any lasting damage.
5. Take More Than You Think You Need
When it comes to photographing an accident scene, it's better to be on the side of taking too many pictures rather than too few. Once the scene has been cleaned up, you can't go back and take more pictures Therefore, it's essential to snap as many as you feel necessary to help paint a clear picture of what happened.
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers
If you've recently been in a car accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. However, you don't have to go through this alone. For over two decades, Douglas, Leonard & Garvey, P.C. has been helping clients navigate the legal process after their accidents.
Our experienced car accident attorneys will investigate the details of your case and help you pursue the compensation you deserve by collecting and organizing evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and more.
Don't let the stress of an accident weigh you down – let our team help you. Dial (603) 288-1403 or contact us online to learn more!