You’re probably familiar with the phrase, “A picture’s worth a thousand words.” The saying is especially true when it comes to car accidents. When you are involved in an accident, taking pictures and videos provides vital information to those not currently at the scene or involved.
When you have pictures or copies of expenses, documents, injuries, and the accident scene, you collect vital evidence for an accident claim. If you are filing a car accident claim, understanding the types of photos to take will increase the likelihood of recovering the best possible compensation and outcome.
What Should You Take Photos of After an Accident?
Not only are photos essential for filing an injury claim, but they also provide information for law enforcement and yourself. For example, suppose you are unsure of a specific characteristic of the vehicle or the accident scene. In that case, having video and picture evidence can help jog your memory and ensure there are no mistakes in legal documents or police reports.
To protect yourself and your compensation, consider the following:
- Vehicle damage: Take pictures of all vehicles involved in the accident from various angles.
- License plates: Capture clear photos of the license plates of all vehicles involved to help identify the parties involved in the accident.
- Accident scene: Photograph the overall accident scene, including the road conditions, traffic signs, positioning of the vehicles, and traffic lights.
- Skid marks and debris: Document any skid marks, tire tracks, and debris on the road for insight into the dynamics of the accident.
- Injuries: If it is safe and appropriate to do so, take pictures of any visible injuries sustained in the accident.
- Weather conditions: Showing the weather conditions during the accident, including rain, snow, and fog is essential for a claim.
- Road signs and signals: Taking pictures of road signs, traffic lights, stop signs, or other traffic control devices in the vicinity of the accident can provide info on surveillance cameras.
If taking photos could put you in danger or obstruct traffic, prioritize your safety and wait until the area is safe. Even if you were unable to take pictures at the scene of the accident, taking photos of your injuries and medical documents can still provide essential information.
Types of Recoverable Damages After a Car Accident
Car accidents can result in significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. When someone else’s actions change your everyday life, you have every right to recover your losses and hold them accountable. While the damages you sustain in an accident depend on various factors, the following are a few examples:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Physical Impairment
- Past and future medical expenses
- Cost of prescription medication
- Surgical procedures
- Emergency medical transportation
- Long-term, at-home assistance
- Rehabilitation/physical therapy
- Cost of prosthetic implants
- Past and future lost wages or income
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of consortium
- Wrongful death damages
- Punitive damages
In Oregon, individuals have a two-year window from the date of a car accident to initiate legal action against the negligent party. If you are dealing with the aftermath of a severe accident caused by a driver’s negligence, don’t hesitate to seek professional legal representation. Our Rizk Law team is here to advocate on your behalf and help you navigate the legal process to seek the compensation you deserve.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late. Contact Rizk Law Today
Our Rizk Law team handles a wide range of motor vehicle injury claims, recognizing the unique aspects of each case. We are dedicated to fostering a close-knit family atmosphere where clients receive unwavering support and genuine advocacy. Our ultimate goal is to secure the best possible compensation for our clients’ claims, and our proven track record of positive references and successful outcomes instills confidence in our extensive resources and responsive approach.
As a firm deeply rooted in community-focused initiatives, we take great pride in uplifting and protecting individuals throughout Oregon. Schedule a free consultation with Attorney Richard Rizk today by calling (503) 245-5677 or filling out our contact form.
