Take Pictures

If possible, try and take your own photos of the accident scene and other vehicle(s) involved. This is the best way to capture a visual of the effects of the impact/collision. It’s not uncommon for insurance companies to take photos of the involved vehicles afterwards at the tow yard. They will present the least damaged sides or ones not even showing damage at all to try and mitigate your claim later on. 

The aftermath of a car accident can be chaotic. When you are sitting in a wrecked car and staring through a shattered windshield, knowing what to do next can seem overwhelming. Your first priorities should be to check your condition and the condition of the others involved, call the police, get to a safe location, and seek emergency medical care if needed. Amid the chaos, it may not occur to you to take pictures of the scene of the accident, but it is more important than you may think.

Many people fail to photograph the accident scene because they are in shock immediately following the accident. Others fail to take photos at the scene because they do not realize what powerful evidence car accident photos may provide. Having car accident photos that document the damage and injuries can make the difference between a successful insurance claim and an unsuccessful insurance claim.

However, you should in no way interfere with the on-going police investigation. If you cannot take pictures at the scene of the accident, take them as soon as possible after the accident.

Using a camera to document the damage to all the vehicles. Keep in mind that you want your photos to show the overall context of the accident so that you can make your case to a claims adjuster. If there were witnesses, try to get their contact information; they may be able to help you if the other drivers dispute your version of what happened.

If possible, try and note the names of any tow company or ambulance/EMT that is involved at the accident scene. They may obtain evidence that could be a crucial part of your case later.