When you’re injured in an accident, taking photos and videos at the scene can provide invaluable evidence in court and help show what happened. Evidence like pictures and videos provide proof for insurance companies, lawyers, and the court and can be used to help determine who is responsible for the accident.
Why Do You Need Pictures and Video?
Taking photos and videos can help document the conditions at the time of the accident and provide a visual record that could be used in a personal injury claim or lawsuit. Pictures and videos can document property damage, physical injuries, road conditions, traffic signals, and anything else that may be relevant to the incident.
The most important benefit of taking photos and video at a car accident scene is providing concrete evidence about what occurred. These photos can be used to recreate the accident or to help prove liability. By taking clear, accurate photos of the scene and the vehicles involved, you can show the actual damage caused by the accident.
What You Should Photograph at a Car Accident Scene
When you’re in a car accident and take photographs and video of the scene, you’re contributing to the evidence that could be used for insurance claims, court cases, and other legal proceedings. Here are some key aspects to remember when photographing an accident scene:
- Vehicle damage: Document the damage done to each vehicle with multiple angles and close-ups of specific areas of impact.
- Location of vehicles: Take pictures of each vehicle’s location before it’s moved to determine which direction each vehicle was coming from or going.
- Weather conditions: If weather conditions such as rain, snow, or fog contributed to the accident, make sure to capture those conditions in your photographs.
- Roadway and traffic signs: Include pictures of roadways, traffic signs, and street signs, which help determine the speed limit and other applicable rules for the area.
- The scene: Take a wide-angle shot of the entire scene, showing how the accident happened. Also, take pictures of any skid marks on the road, street signs, and other identifying features.
- Injuries: Remember to photograph any injuries you sustained due to the accident. Close-ups of bruises, cuts, or burns can be especially helpful in demonstrating the harm you suffered.
What if I Cannot Take Pictures at the Accident Scene Because I Am Injured?
If you are in a car accident and suffer severe injuries that prevent you from taking pictures at the scene, you should ask a family member or friend to take photos on your behalf. This is especially important if you plan to file an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit.
Even if you cannot take pictures of the accident scene and you can’t get a friend or relative to do so, there are still other ways to prove your case. For instance, you can take some photos, such as photos of injuries, damages to the vehicle, and skid marks, at a later date. However, it is always preferable to take pictures at the accident scene as soon as possible.
Speak With a Virginia Beach Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were injured in a car accident caused by another driver in Virginia Beach, you need a personal injury lawyer. At Deering Hedrick, we understand the importance of photos and video from the accident scene. We can talk with you about the specifics of your accident and determine how we could pursue the compensation you deserve for the injuries and losses you sustained in the crash. Call Deering Hedrick at (757) 383-6848 for a legal consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Virginia Beach.
