If the collision occurred on a major highway, attempting to collect evidence can put you in further danger. On a lightly traveled road, it may prove relatively safe to undertake this important task. If you can move your car, get it off the road. Gauge whether it is safe to get out of your vehicle. If you get the car off the road, but the shoulder is narrow or virtually non-existent, staying in the car is likely a better choice until emergency services arrive.
Next, seek legal advice as soon as possible. The more quickly an investigation begins, the more evidence is available. A car accident lawyer for Rockland and Bergen counties at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman P.C. can help you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Evidence Collection
Evidence is critical in car accident cases. However, a person should never put themselves in danger. Even if it is not possible to collect evidence at the scene, there are other ways to build a case. If available, surveillance video can be very valuable. Moreover, your attorney may hire an accident reconstructionist.
Also, the police report should reveal a good deal about the accident. Besides the date, location, and time, the report should also include weather conditions, the accident type, injuries, who made the 911 or police call, and who responded.
When Not to Collect Evidence
Do not attempt to collect evidence if you have been seriously injured. Emergency medical treatment is the top priority. The same holds if someone in your car was badly hurt. Stay with them until police or medical help arrives.
If cars are speeding past the scene, keep yourself out of harm’s way. If the accident happens at night, do not put yourself in a situation where you are not visible to oncoming drivers. Sometimes, you may fear for your physical safety because of the other driver’s reaction. If the other driver threatens you, report the behavior to law enforcement.
What to Do After a Car Accident
Always call 911 after an accident. Determine whether you or anyone else on the scene suffered injuries. If possible, exchange names and contact and insurance information with the other driver. Do not admit fault. Stay as calm as you can under the circumstances.
If you deem it safe to do so, take photos and videos of the accident scene. Include any damage to the vehicles, the license plates, visible injuries, and road conditions. Photograph physical evidence such as blown tires. Record skid marks, road debris, or anything else that may have contributed to the crash.
If there are eyewitnesses, obtain their names and contact information and record what they saw or write down their comments. Write down your own recollections immediately or record them on your phone. The more details you remember initially, the more you may aid your claim.
Finally, if you do not go to the emergency room or an urgent care center right away– the insurance company will attempt to deny or minimize your injuries.
Contact a New York and New Jersey Car Accident Lawyer
If you were seriously injured in a Rockland County, New York, or Bergen County, New Jersey car accident, you need the services of an experienced car accident lawyer for Rockland and Bergen counties at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman P.C.
Complete our online form or call or text 24/7 to schedule a free consultation. Since we work on a contingency basis, you pay no fee unless you receive compensation.