Taking Car Accident Photos That Can Best Support Your Claim

By Grant Law Office on July 25, 2023

Using your phone camera in the aftermath of a car accident can be more powerful than you might think. Photos taken at the scene serve as silent witnesses. They can provide crucial evidence in personal injury cases and help paint a clear picture of how the accident occurred, revealing the at-fault party.

Why Do Photos Matter?

High-quality photos can make or break a case. Blurry or missing images can leave gaps in your story, potentially impacting the outcome of your claim. Clear, detailed photos can corroborate your version of what occurred, reveal the extent of your injuries, and help establish fault.

How to Take Photos After an Accident

Being prepared to take photos at the scene is essential. Always keep a camera or smartphone handy, ensuring you’re ready to document the scene should an accident occur. When you find yourself in an accident, you must capture the relevant details.

Document Vehicle Damage

Begin by photographing the vehicle damage. Capture each car involved from diverse angles. Focus on the dents, scrapes, shattered windows, or other damage. These photos will serve as tangible proof of the collision’s impact. Taking close-ups can more clearly reveal the extent of the damage.

Skid Marks Offer Clues

Next, turn your attention to skid marks. These often-overlooked details can offer important clues about the speed and direction of the vehicles before a collision. Make sure to capture skid marks on the roadway in their entirety, showing where they begin and end.

Get Multiple Angles of the Accident

Consideration of angles and distance is vital when taking photos at the accident scene. Avoid limiting yourself to a single image. Instead, taking a series of photos from various angles and distances will fully capture the context. This approach will provide a more complete perspective of the incident, leaving little room for doubt about the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Take Photos as Soon as Possible

Remember, time is of the essence. Aim to take photos as soon as it is safe to do so after the accident. Conditions can change rapidly. Skid marks fade, vehicles are moved, and injuries can heal. Swift action ensures that you capture the scene as it was at the time of the collision.

What is the Weather and Lighting?

Even in poor lighting or adverse weather, strive to take clear photos. Utilize your camera’s flash in low-light situations and shield your lens from rain or snow if necessary. However, never compromise your safety. If conditions are unsafe, wait until conditions improve to take photos.

Personal Injuries and Property Damage

If possible, it is beneficial for your case to document any personal injuries, property damage, and the presence of any witnesses. These elements can be crucial in establishing liability and the severity of the incident.

Always aim to create a comprehensive visual representation of the accident scene while ensuring your actions do not compromise your safety. Capturing the significant elements of a car accident can aid in filing a claim or lawsuit to recover damages.

How can a Car Accident Lawyer Help?

Navigating a personal injury claim can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. An experienced Atlanta car accident attorney can guide you through the process, helping you understand what evidence is needed and how to present it most effectively. It is important to remember that the photos you take after your accident could be pivotal in securing a favorable outcome for your claim.

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, we want to hear about it. Our dedicated legal team is here to guide you every step of the way and ensure you have the support you need to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Grant Law Office at (404) 995-3955 to schedule a free consultation. We’re here to help.