While caring for any injuries after a car accident should be your priority, gathering facts and car accident evidence at the scene once you’ve been cared for can make a big difference in who ends up paying for all the medical bills and the car accident repairs.
North Carolina is a tort-based state, meaning whoever is responsible for the accident must pay, so the evidence will help prove that.
What Accident Scene Evidence Should I Gather At The Scene Of A Car Accident?
Once you leave the car accident scene, you can lose many critical pieces of evidence. However, if you’re physically and mentally able, collecting essential facts and evidence at the scene can make a difference in winning the case.
First, take any pictures possible. Photos or videos of the damage to your car, any signs you see that would indicate who had the right away, speed limit signs, the weather conditions, skid marks, and photos of any injuries you sustained.
Next, write down anything you remember from the accident or hear in the aftermath. If you see any traffic cameras nearby, write down the intersection so the police can review the footage after. You’ll also need the other driver’s make, model, and color of the car, their insurance information, and driver’s license number.
Then, see if any bystanders stopped. Ask them questions or for their contact info to help later if necessary.
While this is not at the accident scene, afterward, you should request copies of any medical records regarding injuries sustained during the accident.
What Should I Do If I’m The Victim Of A Car Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact Hyland, Padilla, & Fowler immediately. Car accident injuries and repairs often result in hefty bills, and in North Carolina, the person at fault must pay.
However, North Carolina has another tricky law: contributory negligence. If you’re even one percent at fault for the accident, you’re barred from receiving financial compensation. This is why employing an experienced personal injury is essential and can determine the outcome of your case.
We will help you collect evidence after the fact to build the most robust case and prove you were the victim.
We offer free consultations and can help you receive compensation for medical expenses, physical pain, mental suffering, lost wages, and punitive damages. At Hyland, Padilla, & Fowler, PLLC, our car accident lawyers are well equipped to represent you against large insurance companies and are experienced in negotiations.