The best thing you can do for yourself after you have been involved in a car accident is to gather as much evidence as possible. There are many different documents a victim will need in order to prove that he or she was injured in a car accident. These documents protect the victim’s legal rights and are also used to prove liability.
What is the Burden of Proof?
The burden of proof in a legal case is the obligation of the plaintiff to provide sufficient evidence that supports their accusations. This means that it is the injured party’s responsibility to gather enough evidence to prove the defendant’s liability.
What Evidence Should be Gathered?
Although the minutes after an accident can leave you shaken up and confused as to what happened, there is evidence you will need to gather on the scene immediately. This important evidence includes:
- Photographs of the accident scene and of the vehicles involved: If you are able to, you will want to take pictures as soon as possible. Be sure to take pictures of the accident from up close and from all directions, as well as from far back, especially if there are skid marks on the cars. You will also want to take pictures of stop signs, traffic lights, and damage done to the vehicles.
- Police reports: It is important to get reports from the officers that arrived on the scene. You have a legal right to obtain a police report, as well as the report the other driver made. Police reports can play a huge role in determining liability.
- Witness statements: Witnesses can also be a big help in determining liability. If you can, try to get contact information from anyone who you believe witnessed the accident as it happened. Witnesses can hold valuable information about what happened prior to and during the accident. When it comes to the other driver, be sure to get their name, license plate number, and contact information before he or she leaves the scene.
- Medical and income records: Medical records show the extent of your injuries, while income records show wages you lost from being out of work. These records can help your lawyer determine an acceptable settlement for your injuries.
After your car accident, it is extremely beneficial to contact an experienced lawyer. A lawyer will help you gather evidence that is needed to support your case.
Delaware County Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Represent Victims Injured in Car Accidents
When it comes to car accidents, the more evidence you have to support your claim, the more likely it is that a settlement will be in your favor. It is up to you to gather as much evidence as possible immediately after an accident. Our Delaware County car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. are here to help you with your case. Our experienced lawyers represent car accident victims and will fight hard to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us online or call us at 610-565-3701 for a free consultation. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.