Why Should You Take Photos at Your Injury Accident Scene? | IL

 Posted on August 28,2024 in Car Accidents

There are countless articles detailing steps you should take after an accident. The advice varies, but most lists include taking photos at the scene of your personal injury accident. Have you wondered why this is advised?

The photos you take can serve as vital evidence to support your claim for compensation. Your experienced lawyer from Salvi & Maher, LLP can use them in various ways when building your case.

What Kinds of Photos Should You Take?

The purpose of taking pictures and making videos is to capture several details surrounding your accident and resulting injuries accurately. Whether you are involved in a car crash, truck accident, slip-and-fall accident, dog bite, or other incident that injures you, you should record:

• Your injuries

• Other people’s injuries

• Property damage

• Lighting and weather conditions

• The entire accident scene, from multiple points of view

• Any hazardous condition that contributed to your accident

• Eyewitness photos and possibly their statements

• Any other details that might help your legal team discover how and why your accident occurred

It is better to record too many details than not enough.

Other People Are Taking Photos, So Why Should You?

While it is true that responding law enforcement officers and witnesses may take pictures and record videos at the scene of your accident, do not assume they are doing so to benefit you. Your attorney may be able to obtain copies of photos taken by the police, but they would need to identify the witnesses and how to contact them to view their photos. There are several reasons for taking your own:

• Regardless of the kind of accident you are involved in, the scene will be cleaned up. Because you were present when the accident occurred, you have a unique opportunity to capture details that will soon be swept away.

• You may record information that others do not, and that may prove to be key evidence in your accident claim.

• Your photos of eyewitnesses can help your lawyer identify and locate them to provide statements.

• Videos and audio recordings can eliminate "he said, she said" complications because they capture actual conversations and statements.

• Your photos may pinpoint video surveillance camera locations, making it easier for your attorney to get copies of the footage that may have captured your accident as it happened.

Be sure to mention that you have these photos and videos during your free consultation with Salvi & Maher, LLP.

How Can Your Lawyer Use Your Photos?

You have probably heard the saying, "A picture is worth a thousand words." That statement is true when it comes to evidence in personal injury cases. Your attorney can use your videos and photos to:

• Prove that the accident caused your injuries

• Understand why the accident happened

• Identify others who were present

• Establish fault and liability

• Ascertain whether you bear any fault

• Demonstrate the severity of your injuries

• Determine contributing factors

Most personal injury claims are resolved through settlement negotiations rather than court trials. However, we still need concrete evidence to help you obtain as much compensation as you deserve. Help us help you by gathering evidence at the scene.

Contact Us Today To Speak With Our Skilled Lake County, IL Personal Injury Lawyers

Your photos can contribute significantly to the outcome of your case, and working with an effective lawyer from Salvi & Maher, LLP can increase your chance of success. Our firm has an impressive track record and over 85 years of combined experience, and we are ready to help you. Request your free consultation with our dedicated Waukegan, IL personal injury attorneys by calling 847-662-3303.