Evidence Gathering: It Starts At The Scene

If you're involved in an accident, it's important to know what to expect in terms of investigative procedures. The below procedures are mostly automatic and standard practice. However, more may need to be done if the parties disagree on important issues such as liability. Here are some things that may happen after an accident. 

Police or emergency services may arrive at the scene to investigate the accident and provide assistance to anyone who may be injured. The police will likely interview everyone involved in the accident to get their account of what happened. They may also talk to any witnesses who saw the accident.

The police may take photographs of the scene of the accident and collect any physical evidence that could help determine the cause of the accident. There are several types of physical evidence that should be gathered at an accident scene. Here are some examples:

  • Skid marks or tire tracks on the road surface: These can indicate the speed of the vehicles involved, the direction of travel, and whether the brakes were applied.
  • Debris from vehicles: Broken glass, plastic or metal fragments, and other materials can provide clues about the point of impact and the severity of the collision.
  • Vehicle damage: Examining the damage to the vehicles can help investigators determine the speed and force of impact, the point of impact, and the position of the vehicles at the time of the collision.
  • Roadway conditions: Investigating the condition of the road surface, such as the presence of potholes or uneven surfaces, can help determine if road conditions played a role in the accident.
  • Surveillance footage: If there are cameras in the area, surveillance footage can be used to gather evidence about the accident, such as the position and movement of the vehicles.
  • Physical injuries: Any physical injuries sustained by those involved in the accident can also provide valuable evidence about the nature and severity of the collision.

Your insurance company may also conduct an investigation into the accident to determine who was at fault and assess the damage to your vehicle. If you and the other driver don't agree on fault, their insurer may also perform an investigation into the cause of the accident. It's vital to protect yourself by seeking legal representation if you have been hurt in an accident. A lawyer can help you understand how much compensation you are owed and will work with the at-fault driver to obtain it for you. 

Contact a local accident lawyer to learn more. 

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