5 Tips for Taking Photos at the Scene of a Car Accident

Being involved in a car accident if often not only unexpected but also overwhelming. Although it can be difficult to know what to do next when you are involved in a car accident one of the most important things that you can do is to preserve evidence. Since evidence is sure to fade with time, it is essential that you capture it as soon as possible. One of the best ways to do so is by taking pictures.

 If you are in a safe place to take pictures, you can capture them on your phone. However, if you must leave to seek medical attention, it is very helpful to have a trusted family member or friend do the same on your behalf. Here are 5 tips for capturing photos at the scene of a car accident.

1. Take photos of the damage

After an accident, it is important to take pictures of all of the vehicles that were involved. This includes pictures from all different distances and angles, both close-up and farther away. Additionally, it is important to capture images of the damage to all of the vehicles on their interior as well as their exterior when possible. This may include things such as loose car parts, deployed airbags, broken glass, and debris.

2. Take photos of licenses plates and contact information 

It is imperative that you obtain the personal information of the other parties involved in the accident. This includes their license plate number, contact information and insurance. Since it can be difficult to maintain all of this information by memory, it can be very helpful to take pictures of it so that you don’t need to.

3. Take photos of all injuries 

It is invaluable to capture close-up images of any injuries to the victims of the crash. This way there is less room for debate as to what injuries were incurred due to the accident and their severity.

 4. Take photos of the entire accident scene 

While close-up pictures can be very helpful, it is advised that you walk far enough away from the vehicles that you can capture images of the entire scene in one snap. Be sure to photograph the entire scene from all angles of the accident, 360 degrees around. It is far better to have an excess of images than to be missing important shots.

 5. Take photos of any contributing factors

In certain instances, you may be able to capture a photograph of potential contributing factors to the accident. This may include things such as potholes, poorly lit streets, faded lane lines, and broken curbs. Also be sure to take pictures of any skid marks on the road.

The Goss Law Firm, P.C. Can Help

 If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, The Goss Law Firm can help. To learn more or to schedule a FREE consultation, call the Kansas City Lawyers at the Goss Law Firm at 816-839-6452 today.