Taking photos after a car accident is critical as it preserves information about the scene, injuries and damage that you may not remember when discussing the incident with insurance companies or police. However, in order to protect your rights and make certain photos adequately show what you want them to show, there are some things you should avoid. Here are several tips on what not do when taking car accident photos.
Neglect to Take Photos at the Scene
Only once you have placed a call to emergency services and confirmed that everyone who is injured has received help, begin taking photos of the accident scene. If possible, use the time stamp feature available on most cameras and on some phones. Because accidents can cause traffic issues, police may clear the scene very quickly, especially in the case of only minor injuries, so taking photos quickly is important.
Take Video Instead of Photos
Video often misses details that photographs do not. Although video may be helpful to document the severity of injuries and EMT efforts to help those who are injured, it is not as useful as photographs in documenting the accident.
Shoot from One Angle
When taking accident scene photos, be sure to shoot pictures from more than one angle. If your camera has a wide shot function, use it to get as much of the scene as possible. Then, zoom in on certain details, such as the position of the cars, traffic indicators including lights and signs, as well as other vehicles involved in the accident.
Forget to Include Reference Points
Be sure to include any reference points at the scene that may indicate fault. If the other driver failed to yield for instance, include the yield sign in the background. Be sure to include any street signs, intersections and other reference points that will help investigators understand what happened.
Ignore Weather Conditions
Photographs can capture weather conditions as well. If it is cloudy, raining or snowing, be sure that is captured in the photos. Take photos that show the position of the sun and, at night, the effects of the moon on the road, as well. Additionally, include photos of skid marks, glass or damaged car parts, especially those that seem to be some distance from the crash scene.
Contact Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins After an Auto Accident
Most especially, do not forget to photograph all damage to your vehicle and all injuries suffered by you and your passengers. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, contact Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins, P.A. today. Contact us by phone or online by completing our simple query form to arrange a consultation regarding your case today.