A Guide to Collect & Preserve Car Accident Evidence
In any auto collision case, it is imperative that the evidence be collected and preserved. Evidence can often be the deciding factor in a case, so it must be handled correctly from the beginning. Car accident evidence can include anything from mechanical parts to personal items. Here we will discuss how to collect and preserve car accident evidence.
Table of Contents
1. Types Of Evidence
The car accident evidence consists of all the items you can find at the accident scene. This includes anything from your car’s mechanical parts to personal items such as phones, cameras, and clothing. Cell phones or cameras can have vital information that will help a lawyer or investigator figure out what happened in a case. The type of evidence may also be necessary for determining if you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages.
2. Where To Obtain Evidence
Most car accident evidence can be obtained at the scene of the accident. However, some evidence may need to be retrieved and preserved somewhere else. For example, if you have property damage and a cracked windshield, then you may want to get the car towed and have it fixed before getting your car back. In this case, you would need to find out where you can get your car towed and then have it taken there. An auto accident lawyer can help you get started with this.
3. Documenting The Evidence
If you are taking pictures, it is essential that they be taken in a way that will preserve them. Take a photo at the right angle so that the camera does not obscure the evidence. Make sure to zoom in on all of your photographs for clarity and if possible, try to include some labels with them. If you are taking video footage, make sure you have a place where it will be stored safely and securely. It is best to use an external hard drive or upload it online so that you can access it from anywhere with internet access.
4. Preserving Evidence
Crucial evidence can be damaged or destroyed by normal wear and tear. The best way to preserve evidence is to store it in an air-tight container. This means that you should not let any moisture enter the container or expose it to extreme temperatures or humidity. If you are storing electronics, try to keep them in a sealed bag. If you have blood or tissue samples from the victim, these are the most important things to preserve. If a blunt force trauma killed the victim, it is recommended that you put the sample in a freezer at -20°C (0°F) for at least three days. This will ensure that any bacteria or viruses are killed and that any DNA survives.
5. Organizing Evidence
Once you have all the evidence, organizing it is essential. Make sure all your evidence is in one place to find it easily. For example, if you are taking pictures at the scene and several witnesses took photos as well, ensure that each person’s picture is contained in its file. This will help with reconstruction and make it easier for investigators to find the needed images.
End Note
Keeping your evidence safe and secure is vital so that no one else can get their hands on them or ruin any part of your case due to negligence. It is also crucial for your client’s safety since they may need this information later down the line should they decide to pursue legal action.
