How to Document a Car Accident

When seeking compensation for a car accident injury, proof is everything. You would not be in line for financial compensation without evidence of what happened and how you have suffered. You need to begin documenting the car accident right after it happens to build the strongest legal case. However, you may not be in the best position to build your case on your own. An experienced car accident lawyer can do the hard work for you, using their experience and reputation to help you get the most possible money for your injuries.

Write Down the Contact Information of the Driver

At the scene, you should obtain information from the other driver that includes the following:

• Their driver’s license number
• Their contact information
• Their insurance carrier and policy number

Take Photos of the Accident Scene and Injuries

After a car accident, gathering as much evidence as possible is crucial, and taking photographs is essential. Capture images of various elements at the accident scene:

• Vehicle damage: Photograph your car from all angles, including interior damage. Repeat this process for other vehicles involved.
• Evidence of the accident: Look for skid marks, broken glass, debris, or spilled cargo. These details can provide crucial context.
• Traffic lights and signs: Take pictures of nearby traffic signals or signs, noting any obstructions or anomalies.
• Area surrounding the scene: Capture the surroundings, including buildings, landscaping, and potential security cameras. These details may influence the accident’s dynamics.
• License plates and documentation: Take pictures of license plates, vehicle makes/models, and relevant documents like driver’s licenses and insurance papers.
• Injuries: After ensuring the safety of yourself and your passengers, it is crucial to photograph any injuries sustained. Promptly documenting injuries is essential for insurance claims or potential personal injury lawsuits.

Keep Medical Records

Retaining and organizing all receipts, medical bills, and records related to the accident is essential. Insurance companies require detailed documentation to reimburse expenses, especially for significant claims. Various expenses stemming from the accident, including personal and property damages, lost wages, and towing fees, may be covered by auto insurance policies. The coverage depends on factors such as the accident’s location, type of insurance held, fault determination, and ability to substantiate the case.

If unsure, consulting with a lawyer about rights and entitlements is advisable. Meanwhile, diligently preserving paperwork associated with the accident is crucial. Examples of documents to retain include medical bills, insurance correspondence, official accident records, pay stubs for wage loss calculations, repair estimates, and towing and rental expenses.

Have an Accident Journal

Maintaining a car accident journal is recommended to ensure accurate recall of important details following a car accident. Memories can fade over time, making remembering specific aspects of the incident and its aftermath challenging. This journal serves as a personal record of observations and thoughts about the accident, aiding in accurately recounting the event.

The journal can be kept in various formats, including handwritten notes, digital documents, or voice recordings. It should include factual details such as the accident’s date, time, and location. No detail is too small to include in the journal, as each information contributes to a comprehensive accident narrative.

Contact Our New Jersey Car Accident Lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC for Legal Help Today

Contact our New Jersey car accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC for assistance after a crash. We will investigate your accident and compile evidence. Call us at 732-920-8383 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Manasquan and Brick, New Jersey, we serve clients in Middlesex County, Atlantic County, Mercer County, Monmouth County, and Ocean County.