How Do I Properly Document a Car Accident?
One of the most important things you can do after a car accident is to document it. This means taking photos and jotting down notes about the aftermath. You may not be thinking about all this, but having as much evidence and documentation as possible regarding your accident can strengthen your case and help you get the most compensation possible.
Here are some tips to go about it.
Call 911 and/or the Police
If anyone is injured, your first step should be to call 911 for help. If not, then calling the police should be your next step. Police officers can help facilitate the exchange of information between parties. Plus, a police report includes important information that can help insurance companies figure out who was at fault.
Take Photos and Videos
Today’s smartphones tend to have high-resolution cameras, which are perfect for visually documenting car accidents. Even if you think you are at fault for the crash, it is a good idea to document as much as possible because your evidence could prove otherwise. Take photos of the vehicles before they are moved from the crash site. Include landmarks to show where you are. Photograph the damage to all vehicles involved. You should also take photos of the other driver’s license and insurance information. Collect video statements from witnesses, if they are willing and the officer is not talking to witnesses.
Document Your Injuries
If you are injured after a car accident, you will need to prove it. Even if you do not think you are hurt that bad, you should still seek medical attention and report all symptoms of all body parts that you feel could be hurt. Failure to do so will make it harder to prove that any injuries you develop later are caused by your accident.
Ask your doctor for copies of all the medical records associated with your post-accident treatment. You should create a file that contains the following:
- Initial treatment report
- Benefit letters
- Medical test results
- Copies of X-ray, MRI, and CT scan results
- Medical bills
Contact Our Kansas Personal Injury Attorneys Today
After a car crash, it’s important to take the right steps. Having the proper documentation and evidence can greatly help your case by getting you full and fair compensation.
The Kansas personal injury attorneys at Neustrom & Associates can guide you in the right direction after a car crash. We work hard to hold others accountable when they have caused significant harm to you or a loved one. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call (785) 825-1505.