Tips for Documenting a Car Accident: What to Do at the Scene of the Crash
When you are involved in a car accident, you may be confused and disoriented. Even if you are not injured, your car may be damaged and you may be in shock from the impact. It is important, however, to take steps to document as much of the crash as possible as soon as you can after the accident, according to a Las Vegas car accident attorney.
Take Notes at the Scene
If you are not injured and are able to do so, take notes at the scene of the accident. You will want to note as much as you can since those notes can be used in court if it gets that far. According to DMV.org, some of the information you want to note are:
- Who was driving?
- What led to the accident?
- How fast were you driving?
- The road conditions – was it wet, dry, was there sun glare, etc.
- Were there any distractions?
- What was said between you and the other driver after the crash? Did you overhear the other driver say anything?
- Were there witnesses and where were they?
- Any details you recall before, during and after the accident
Be sure to obtain the other driver’s name, address, phone number, and insurance information.
Take Photographs
If you have a smartphone, you can use it to take photographs that will document even more detail. You want to photograph all exterior damage to both vehicles. Be sure to take photos of all four corners of each car so both sides can be seen from different angles. Try to include landmarks like street lines, traffic lights, and street signs. Take a photo of each car’s license plate as well. But do not just take up close photos. Be sure to obtain photos that show the whole scene of the Las Vegas car accident. A Las Vegas injury lawyer says that you will want to document any interior damage as well as any skid marks, debris or vehicle parts on the road after the accident.
Keep all Documentation
You will want to keep all documentation in a safe place. Print out the photos from your phone and place them in a file along with your notes. Obtain a copy of the police report and keep that with the other documentation. Most Las Vegas personal injury lawyers now have the ability for you to digitally text any photographs or other items stored in your phone.
Contact an Attorney
After an accident, you want to contact a Las Vegas car accident attorney. Hiring an attorney does not mean you plan to sue the other driver. An attorney can review your case and deal with insurance companies and the other driver. If the other driver hires an attorney, your attorney will work with them to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
If you have been injured in an accident, contact a Las Vegas injury lawyer at the Schnitzel Law Firm today. You can set up a no obligation consolation by calling 702-960-4050 or fill out the easy form online.