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California personal injury attorneys find accident photos and videos particularly helpful in supporting legal claims for damages. By following some tips for taking pictures after an accident, you will have solid photographic evidence to corroborate your version of events and against the other party.
Photos and videos obtained after a traffic accident can provide a complete and unbiased version of the events leading up to and following the accident, and the following tips can help you document the situation in the most beneficial way possible for you and your lawyer.
One thing you should always remember when documenting your accident is that there is such a thing as too much information. Photos often show details that would otherwise go unnoticed or forgotten in the stress after a car collision. If you can’t take your own photos, ask a witness or passerby to take photos with their mobile phone so you can use them later.
Always showing due prudence to all parties involved and the efforts of first responders, photograph as many details of your accident as possible, including:
- Injuries: Take photos of the injuries caused by the accident, including any changes that develop after the accident, such as bruising, swelling, and infections.
- Damage to the vehicle: Photograph the damage suffered by your vehicle, as well as possible damage to other vehicles involved.
- Vehicle Interior: Photos of the interior of a car can be valuable in determining the cause of the accident. Be sure to take photos of distractions like cell phones and headphones; possible indicators of substance use (bottles, cans and drug paraphernalia) and of kilometer counters and speed detectors.
- Vehicle identifiers: photograph of the makes, models and license plates of the other cars.
- Surroundings: Photos of the surroundings can be essential in reconstructing the accident and determining the defendant’s fault. These photos should include traffic signs, traffic lights, junctions, and road hazards.
Also remember to take photos after those involved have received medical assistance and before the affected vehicles are moved. As you collect evidence, be sure to protect yourself from traffic and not interfere with police or other emergency personnel.