It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. This saying is certainly true when filing a claim as a victim in a car accident. Long after the motor vehicles are towed and the accident scene is cleared, photographs can recreate the details, damages, and injuries. It is powerful, undisputed visual evidence that can dramatically increase the strength of your claim. While insurance companies battle over how an accident occurred, who is the at-fault party or parties, and comparative negligence, a series of photographs preserves the evidence and can counter opposing arguments and fraudulent claims.
What if You Cannot Take Photographs?
While many car accident victims cannot take photographs as they need immediate medical attention, family members, friends, or co-workers at the scene can take photographs on your behalf. There may be a kind witness who can help you by taking photos. It is best if your photographs are time and date-stamped.
What Should be Photographed?
- Your injuries and the injuries of your passengers
- All vehicle’s exterior damages
- The interior of vehicles with deployed airbags and other damages
- Skid marks on the roadway and other road hazards that may have contributed to the accident
- Road signs or markings that may be difficult to view or damaged
- The position of the vehicles
- Weather conditions
- The accident location
- Driver’s license and insurance cards from other involved drivers
- License plates of all the vehicles involved
Distance and Angles of the Photos
If police or accident scene experts are taking photos, follow their lead. Take the photos using your smartphone from the same distances and angles, as they are professionals and know best how to present the evidence. Capturing different angles and distances provides an overall picture. Consider taking wide-angle, medium-range, and close-up shots, as they will provide the scale and location of the crash scene. It may be helpful to enable the flash setting on your phone.
Safety First
While pictures are important in supporting a claim, only take photos if you are safe. Many times, accident victims put themselves at risk of being injured or killed by ongoing traffic driving around the accident scene. If possible, use your hazard lights on the car. Wait in a safe area until police arrive and put up flares or cordon off the area.
Keeping a Journal during Recovery
While undergoing medical treatment, photographs can establish the extent of your bodily injuries and your level of disability. For example, if you require crutches or are confined to a wheelchair, it will support your need for home modifications, caregivers, or help with household chores. The healing process of lacerations and abrasions can be photographed to demonstrate the severity of your injuries.
Call the Ogle Law Firm for a Free Case Evaluation
At the Ogle Law Firm, we believe in holding individuals and entities accountable for the damages they cause due to negligent or purposeful acts. Our Daytona Beach and Alachua, Florida lawyers are skilled and knowledgeable in personal injury law and have recovered millions of dollars in damages for our clients.
Attorney William Ogle has handled thousands of personal injury cases. Notably, he is a National Board-Certified Civil Trial Specialist, reflecting his high expertise in civil trial law.
At the Ogle Law Firm, you will be our top priority, from our initial consultation through the resolution of your case. We will always keep you updated on the progress of your case and guide you with expertise and compassionate support. Contact us online or call (386) 253-2500 to schedule an appointment to begin your healing and recovery journey.