Should I Get Photos of Every Vehicle Involved in a Crash?

Each year, more than 5.2 million people seek medical intervention following a motor vehicle accident. A car accident can cause you catastrophic injuries, causing long-term health implications and even permanent disability. In the aftermath of a crash, it is important that you get photos of every vehicle associated with the collision. In this article, our Myrtle Beach car accident attorney discusses his tips for taking accident photos and how legal representation can benefit you.

Vehicle Positioning and Debris

Following a crash, you should take pictures of the final resting position of your car and any other vehicles. It is best to take photos from different angles, taking multiple pictures with and without a flash. Additionally, taking photos of any vehicle debris, including broken fenders, smashed taillights, and shredded tires, can help to support your damages claim.

License Plate Numbers and Vehicle Registration

Instead of writing down license plate numbers, snap a picture of each car’s license plate. You can also request to see another driver’s vehicle registration. When provided, take a picture of the document. Referencing the vehicle registration will allow you to obtain the vehicle identification number (VIN), which may be useful when filing an insurance claim.

Your Injuries

Filing a property damage claim is only one part of a car accident case. Aside from taking pictures of the other vehicles involved in the crash, be sure to get a visual depiction of your physical injuries. This will streamline the process if you file a bodily injury claim.

Car accident injuries may include lacerations, contusions, and broken bones. Documenting the extent and severity of your injuries with a date and time stamp will show that the injuries you suffered correlate to the accident. This will protect your rights in the event that the other driver claims that your injuries are unrelated to the crash.

Location of the Crash

After a crash, be sure to take pictures of any side streets or nearby intersections. The location of your accident matters since it can help a car accident lawyer determine what evidence may be available. For instance, if your crash occurred next to a courthouse, there may be a surveillance camera that records footage from the accident. Details matter, so provide as many pictures as possible related to the accident location.

Tips for Taking Clear and Provoking Photos

Taking clear photos is a must if you plan on submitting these pictures into evidence. Be sure to make sure the camera is in focus before snapping the shot. If your accident happened during the day, the reflection of the sun could wash out your pictures, so you will want to try to find nearby shade or adjust your camera settings accordingly.

If you are too shaky following your accident to take a clear photo, you can either use the image stabilization feature that is available on most devices. If that feature is not available on your phone, consider having one of your passengers take pictures. If you were driving passengers and they have not suffered any injuries, have them take pictures of your injuries, too. Simply having more pictures is not always better unless they are of high quality.

Speak with Our Myrtle Beach Car Accident Lawyer Today

A car accident can result in physical, emotional, and financial damages, all of which can impede your ability to live a full life. Collecting the right evidence at the scene of an accident is crucial for a successful case outcome. At The Law Office of Brad C. Richardson, our Myrtle Beach car accident attorney is committed to helping injury victims recover maximum compensation. That begins with educating individuals on what evidence and information must be collected to demonstrate your losses. If you are interested in learning more, contact us online or by phone to arrange your consultation.