Should I Get Photos of Every Vehicle Involved in a Crash?

While you may take every precaution to avoid a collision, not all accidents can be prevented. Given that the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania experienced 110,382 traffic collisions in 2023, it is safe to say that the state is no stranger to car accidents. Getting photos of every vehicle involved in a crash can provide beneficial information when submitting your claim. In the long run, a photograph may be crucial to winning your claim.

The steps you take following a crash are key to receiving maximum compensation on your claim. In this blog, our Lancaster car accident lawyers discuss their tips for getting clear and accurate pictures at the scene of your accident.

Take Pictures of the Accident Itself

Following an accident (only when it is safe to do so), take pictures of the crash itself. Pictures of the positioning of the vehicles and vehicle damage (including dents, broken taillights and windows, and wreckage). Be sure to take these pictures immediately before any vehicles are moved. Pennsylvania law requires that the driver of a vehicle involved in an accident that does not result in serious bodily injury or death to pull off the roadway to a safe place. So, you have a very limited amount of time to document the scene.

If you are too shaken up from the crash, there is a risk that your photos may be blurry. If you feel that you cannot take clear pictures, it may be best to hand your phone (or whatever device you are using) to one of your passengers.

Take Pictures from Various Angles

Photographs from different angles will provide more information than shots from the same perspective. It is especially important to get close-up shots of vehicle damage and property damage, capturing as many details as possible. While some details may seem insignificant, they may be important when filing your accident claim with insurance.

Take Pictures of Your Injuries

While seemingly gruesome, documenting your injuries is key to recovering the full amount on your claim. While many car accident injuries are internal, contusions, lacerations, and puncture wounds can easily be captured in a picture. Be sure to have your date and time stamp function activated on your camera in case insurance or the other driver claims that your injuries are not related to your crash.

Take Pictures of Any Information You Need

Instead of taking the time to write down another driver’s license plate number, insurance policy number, and driver’s license, take pictures of these items instead. Besides saving time, you will be able to look back on this at a later time. If you attempt to write down information when you are frazzled, there is a good chance that you will make a mistake, causing unnecessary delays in the claims process.

Take Pictures of Identifying Landmarks and Intersections

Car accident victims make the mistake of documenting the damage to vehicles and property that was struck. While this is beneficial, it does not provide information on the surrounding area. Taking pictures of identifying landmarks and nearby intersections can help to place the scene of the accident, providing much-needed information during the investigation process.

Benefits of Working with a Lancaster Car Accident Lawyer

At HGSK Injury Lawyers, we know that being involved in an accident can cause intense anxiety. Since you cannot make a full physical recovery without adequate financial resources, our Lancaster car accident lawyers make it their mission to advocate for the compensation that is rightfully yours.

If the insurance company denies your claim, we will review your policy to determine the reason. We do not consider ourselves a “quick settlement firm,” but rather, a firm that is devoted to helping our clients get much-needed financial relief during a stressful time. While taking pictures can strengthen your settlement claim, our proven strategies cannot be beat. When you hire HGSK Injury Lawyers, you increase your chances of receiving the compensation required to cover your losses.

Contact Our Lancaster Car Accident Lawyers Today

Whether insurance negotiations have stalled, or you have just begun the claims process, our Lancaster car accident lawyers would like to hear from you. With over 100 years of combined experience, the legal team at HGSK Injury Lawyers is devoted to helping hard-working people such as yourself get back on their feet. To learn more, contact us online or by phone to schedule your complimentary consultation.