Even minor car accidents can leave you feeling stunned. If you have any injuries at all, taking photographs of the scene are probably the last thing on your mind. However, if it’s possible, getting photos of the immediate aftermath can help you prove what happened and how.
Although most cell phones today have extremely high-quality cameras, even grainy old cell phone photos are better than no evidence at all. (If you don’t have a cell phone with a camera, consider keeping a disposable film camera in your glove box.)
Here are our best tips for taking photos after a car accident in Ohio.
What to Photograph
- The accident scene. The accident scene—as it is on the day of the accident—is crucial evidence. Try to get several wide-angle shots of where the accident happened, the weather, traffic signals and signs and street names.
- Your car. Next, take photos of your car from multiple angles, being sure to get close-ups of any damage sustained. Be sure to take photos of the interior and exterior.
- Other cars involved. Getting photos of the other cars involved also help your case. While you shouldn’t try to enter their car to take photos, take several of the exterior from multiple angles.
- Your injuries. If you or your passengers sustained any visible injuries, document those. During your recovery period, you may wish to show how the injuries develop and eventually heal. Bruises, for example, may take hours or days to fully show up.
- Even if you’ve taken a few wide-angle shots of the scene, the cars and your injuries, make sure that you get the details. Skid marks, for example, can help your insurance company or juries determine whether the accident happened the way the parties said it did. If there’s shattered glass, vehicle parts or other debris (like your possessions) on the road, photograph that, too.
What to Do with Your Photos
Once you’ve taken the photos, sought medical help and have gone home, be sure to back up your data. If you’ve taken digital photos, email them to yourself or upload them to a cloud drive for safekeeping. You may wish to print copies as well. (Eventually, you’ll send them to your attorney and insurance company, too.)
If you’re using a film camera, have duplicates developed. Give a set to a trusted friend or family member, and keep the negatives in a safe location.
Call My Office for Help with Your Accident Claim
I have years of experience representing injury victims in Ohio. When you get in touch with me, you can learn more about the merits of your case. I will assess your case and can help you understand the options you have for seeking financial compensation. If another person or party is responsible for your injuries, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call me at 877.944.4373 so that I can evaluate your case as soon as possible.