10 Crucial Ways to Collect Evidence After Your Accident

Proof That Wins Cases: A Guide for Injured People

After an accident, the evidence you gather can make or break your case. Insurance companies will try to pay you as little as possible, but with the right proof, you can fight back. Here’s what you need to collect:

1. Take Photos of Everything

Don’t just take a few quick shots – document everything thoroughly:

• The accident scene from multiple angles
• All vehicle damage (yours and theirs)
• Your visible injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling)
• Road conditions, traffic signs, and skid marks

2. Get News Coverage

If your accident was reported in local news:

• Save digital copies of online articles
• Record TV news segments

3. Map the Scene

• Get a printed Google Earth image of the accident location
• Mark where vehicles were positioned
• Note the direction of travel and point of impact

4. Document Weather Conditions

• Save weather reports from the day of your accident
• If bad weather was a factor, this can be important evidence

5. Collect Repair Estimates

• Take your vehicle to the dealership, not just any body shop
• Dealerships often provide higher estimates
• Keep all paperwork showing the full extent of damage

6. Research the Other Party

• Check court records for the person who injured you
• Look for previous lawsuits or criminal charges
• This information may strengthen your case

7. Check Driving Records

• The other driver’s history of traffic violations can be relevant
• If they have multiple infractions, this supports your case
• A DUI history is especially important

8. Investigate Business Records

• If a company is involved, check Secretary of State records
• Look for previous complaints or violations
• Understand who actually owns the business

9. Find All Available Assets

• If insurance isn’t enough, know what other assets might be available
• Property, businesses, and investments can be important
• This is crucial in cases with serious injuries

10. Search Social Media

• Check the other party’s public posts
• They might contradict what they claim about the accident
• People often post things that undermine their own defense

Remember: The sooner you collect this evidence, the better – but understand we will also investigate and obtain all this as well! Some of it may disappear quickly after your accident. If you’re too injured to gather this information yourself, ask a family member or friend to help, or speak with a lawyer who can handle the investigation for you.