DOCUMENTING THE SCENE OF A CAR ACCIDENT

Although it may be too late for an accident that you were already in, here is some valuable advice if you or someone you know is ever in a car wreck. If you want the perfect tool that is likely readily available to you at the scene of a car crash, here is your answer. This device allows you to document nearly everything you possibly could need from the scene of the accident. It will also assist in making sure that the claim goes smoothly the next time. You probably already have it and if not, you should get one. Surprise, it’s your smartphone.

Smartphones have everything you could need if you are at a scene of a car accident. A smartphone will allow you to take pictures of the scene and its surroundings:

• Take a picture of any debris and where that debris is in relation to the vehicles that were involved
• Take several pictures of any and all damage to your vehicle
• Try to get pictures of any other vehicles that were involved and try to take pictures of them together with a landmark in the picture.

A single video could capture all of this. Why would you want to do that? Taking accident scene photos can be very helpful in the claims process and may possibly be used as evidence.

When it comes to talking to other involved parties, you may not need to get anyone to write anything down. In fact, you can use this as an excuse to record in audio or video. First, turn the recording on, identify the time and date and say:

• “I cannot find a pen, and I don’t have anything to write on. Do you mind if I record this?”
• “Will you read me your license information?”
• “Can I get your insurance information? If you say it, I will have it on this recording.”

Then ask, “Did you cause the car accident? Do you think it was your fault? Do you think I did something wrong?”

All of these questions are important. People at the scene of car accidents are very contrite when they may have caused an accident. They will usually tell everyone exactly what happened. It is usually not until the insurance company talks to the person, and they start thinking about it, that they become a less certain as to how much at fault they were.

Sanders.Law provides a free initial consultation at our Kansas City office just off the highway and near KCI Airport (Kansas City International, a.k.a MCI). If you are unable to travel, we will be happy to meet you where you are. Our personal injury cases are handled on a contingency basis, such that we do not collect any fees if we do not recover for you. For more information or to schedule a free initial consultation on a personal injury or wrongful death matter with an experienced Kansas City lawyer, please contact us at (816) 844-6938