At Patterson Law Group, our San Antonio car wreck attorneys understand how traumatic these events can be. You or someone else may experience injuries or a damaged vehicle and face significant accident-related expenses.
Even in minor crashes, dealing with the insurance company may be more disruptive to your life than the accident. After a car accident, you want to heal and receive compensation for your injuries and losses. Unfortunately, delays and complications are not uncommon.
We are here to help. Part of our role in a car accident claim is to gather evidence to support your case. Learn more about the type of evidence needed in car accident claims here.
Gathering Photographic Evidence
Photographs can speak volumes in a car accident case. Immediately following the accident, if you are able, take as many photos as possible from different angles, showing the damage to all vehicles involved, the position of the cars, and any skid marks or debris on the road. Don’t forget to capture street signs and traffic signals, as these can be crucial in determining fault.
If you cannot take photos yourself, ask someone with you or nearby to do so. You can count on our attorneys to use the photos to help determine fault. We can also gather footage from security cameras to help determine fault in your accident.
Collecting Contact Information
It’s essential to exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved. However, don’t limit this to just drivers; gather details from witnesses too.
Their accounts can provide an unbiased perspective, invaluable for your San Antonio car wreck attorney in piecing together the events leading up to the accident. We will follow up with anyone you gathered information from to help prove fault in your case.
Police Reports
A police report offers an objective overview of the accident. It includes details about the involved parties, witness statements, and the officer’s observations.
In many cases, this report can significantly influence an insurer’s decision or a court’s ruling. Therefore, obtaining a copy of this report is a top priority.
Medical Records
Medical records are a pivotal part of your claim if you sustained injuries. These documents prove the existence and extent of your injuries and link them directly to the accident. Ensure you record all medical treatments, including hospital visits, prescriptions, and rehabilitation.
If you do not seek medical treatment immediately after an accident, this could cause issues. It may result in the insurance company for the other party claiming that the incident did not cause your injuries or that they are not as serious as you said. This can lead to delays in the claims process and sometimes denials.
Traffic Camera Footage
In urban areas like San Antonio, traffic cameras are common. These cameras may capture crucial moments before, during, and after the accident, offering an unbiased view of what happened. Our experienced San Antonio car wreck attorney can help acquire this footage, which can be a game-changer in your case.
Dashboard Camera Recordings
The footage can be helpful evidence if your vehicle has a dashboard camera. It can provide real-time evidence of the accident, showing the drivers’ actions and road conditions.
The more photographic and video evidence you have, the better. This evidence is indisputable in most cases, helping your lawyer show fault without any doubt.
Phone Records
In cases where distracted driving is suspected, phone records can be telling. They can demonstrate whether a driver was on the call or texting during the accident. Your attorney can guide you through the legal process to obtain these records when necessary. This is not always needed if there is other evidence showing fault, but it is an option we can use if necessary.
Accident Reconstruction Reports
Sometimes, the dynamics of the accident are complex, and it’s challenging to determine fault. This is where an accident reconstruction expert comes in.
These professionals can recreate the accident using the available evidence, helping your San Antonio car wreck attorney argue your case more effectively.
Employment and Lost Wages Documentation
If the accident resulted in you missing work, documentation of lost wages is critical. This includes lost salary and missed opportunities for overtime, bonuses, and other forms of compensation.
For some people, the injuries they sustain in a car accident are so severe that they cannot return to work for weeks, months, or longer. Recovering compensation for these losses is important, as it supports the accident victim and their family while they recover.
Understanding Comparative Fault in Texas
Texas follows the modified comparative fault rule, meaning that your compensation may be reduced if you’re found partially at fault for the accident. For instance, if you’re found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. In such scenarios, a San Antonio car wreck attorney can be instrumental in minimizing your fault percentage and maximizing your potential compensation.
Understanding the Importance of Evidence in Car Accident Cases
The evidence collected after a car accident plays a pivotal role in the outcome of your claim. Understanding what evidence to gather and how it can impact your case will enhance your chances of a favorable outcome.
Partnering with an experienced San Antonio car wreck attorney at Patterson Law Group can make a significant difference. Our expertise and guidance can help navigate the complexities of your case, ensuring that all necessary evidence is collected and effectively used to support your claim.
Contact Patterson Law Group today for comprehensive legal support and representation in your car accident case.
