Car crash claims are often hotly contested by the other motorist’s insurer. Even though they may know their client was at fault, insurance companies are typically more interested in protecting their bottom line and boosting shareholder profits than in paying out the just compensation they should.
Evidence can therefore become critical in proving the other driver’s negligence and culpability for the accident and the injuries you suffered. The following sorts of evidence can be of major value.
Photos and video
While it is possible to manipulate photos and video to show a false version of events, they are generally considered reliable by a court. If you can find footage of the other driver jumping through the red light before hitting you, a court is likely to believe that is what happened.
You can request footage from traffic cameras or private cameras nearby, or possibly get it from dashcams that you or another driver has. You can also use your phone to document the scene immediately after, focusing on road conditions, vehicle positions and damage to people and vehicles.
Witness statements
Collecting contact details of anyone who witnessed the accident is often easier at the time than later. Statements given sooner after the crash may also be viewed as more accurate than those gained later, when the memories may have faded or distorted.
Police crash reports
If the police attend the scene, they should make a report of what they find. Their position gives their findings an air of authority which may help you convince the insurer to pay up, or if they refuse, to convince the court to award you a suitable settlement.
An experienced legal team can help you determine what evidence is out there and how to access and present it, giving you the best chance of a successful injury claim.
