What Evidence Should I Gather After an Illinois Car Accident?
Driving or riding in a car is something that almost all Americans do every single day. With something that is such a common occurrence, we often forget how dangerous motor vehicles can be if they are not driven properly or if someone is not paying full attention to the task at hand. Auto accidents often result in damage to vehicles, but they can also easily cause injury to occupants involved in the collision. Getting into a car accident can be extremely unnerving for most people. Receiving compensation for your injuries or other damages is not impossible, but you need sufficient evidence to prove your case in order to prevail.
Take Photos at the Scene of the Crash
Photographs are one of the most valuable forms of evidence. These serve as visual evidence that can allow you to prove your point when pursuing compensation for a car accident. At the scene of the accident, try to document as many things as you can such as:
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Damage to each of the vehicles
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Each vehicle’s license plate
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The scene of the accident as a whole
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Any road conditions that may have contributed to the accident
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Street signs or stop lights near the accident
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Visible injuries to yourself or other passengers in the vehicle
Obtain a Copy of the Police Report
A police report can also be a valuable piece of evidence if you are pursuing compensation for the accident. When police respond to a call about a collision, they will be required to file an accident report. The report will contain valuable information about the crash, such as:
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A description of what happened
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Your name and insurance information
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The other driver’s name and insurance information
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Contact information for any witnesses to the accident
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Statements from witnesses
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Damages that occurred to each vehicle
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Injuries that occurred to anyone
Keep All Documentation for Repairs and/or Medical Care
Other important pieces of evidence to gather after a car accident include any documentation for repairs done to your vehicle or medical care that you sought for your injuries. When you first seek medical attention, you should tell the doctor that your injuries were sustained in an auto accident and that you want records of any and all care. Keep all receipts, visit summaries, treatment records, orders for tests or scans, and other documentation regarding your medical treatment.
Contact a Bloomingdale Personal Injury Attorney
Being involved in a car accident can have a significant financial and emotional impact. Not only do you have to pay for medical bills and repairs for your vehicle, but you also have to deal with the stress of missing work and the difficulties that this can cause in providing for your family. At the Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we understand how a car accident can affect multiple areas of your life. Our skilled DuPage County car accident injury lawyers are here to help you get the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering. Call our office today at 630-932-9100 to schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
https://www.dmv.org/insurance/how-to-document-auto-accident-damage.php
https://www.dmv.org/accident-guide/preserving-evidence.php