How to Document a Car Accident Scene Like a Pro
The evidence you collect at the accident scene can make or break your claim. Here's exactly what to document and how.
Photos to Take
- All vehicles from multiple angles - Close-ups of all damage - License plates of all vehicles - Skid marks on the road - Traffic signs and signals - Road conditions (wet, icy, potholes) - Your visible injuries - The overall scene from a distance
Information to Collect
- Other driver's name, phone, insurance info - Names and phone numbers of witnesses - Responding officers' names and badge numbers - Police report number - Time and date of accident - Weather conditions
Notes to Make
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Free Case Evaluation →As soon as possible, write down: - Exactly what happened in your own words - What the other driver said at the scene - How you were feeling physically - The direction each vehicle was traveling - Approximate speeds
Digital Evidence
- Check for nearby security cameras - Note if any dashcam footage exists - Preserve any text messages or calls from around the time of the accident
What NOT to Do
- Don't admit fault or apologize - Don't post about the accident on social media - Don't discuss the accident with the other driver's insurance
This article is general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
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What Happens Next: Personal Injury
Here is what the process looks like, step by step.
Free Case Evaluation
Day 1Tell us what happened. Bring any photos, police reports, or medical records you have — but don't worry if you don't have everything yet.
We assess your case, identify liable parties, and give you an honest evaluation of your options. If we can't help, we'll tell you and point you in the right direction.
Investigation & Evidence Preservation
Weeks 1–4Focus on your medical treatment. Follow your doctor's instructions. Keep a record of how your injuries affect your daily life.
We send preservation letters, collect police reports, obtain surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and begin building your case file.
Medical Treatment & Documentation
Months 1–6Attend all medical appointments. Do not gap your treatment. Keep receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses.
We track your treatment, coordinate with your doctors, and compile a complete medical damages package. We handle all communication with the insurance company.
Demand & Negotiation
Months 6–12Review the demand package with us. We explain every number. You decide whether to accept, counter, or go to trial.
We prepare and deliver a comprehensive demand package. We negotiate aggressively, leveraging our trial record to push for full value.
Resolution or Trial
Months 12–18If the case settles, you receive your check within 2–4 weeks. If we go to trial, we prepare you thoroughly for testimony.
We resolve your case — by settlement if the offer is fair, by trial if it is not. We never recommend accepting less than your case is worth.