How to Document Evidence After a Car Accident in California?

The actions you take after a car accident will be instrumental in determining the finer details of your case. It’s important to document as much as you can to ensure that your accident claim is protected. Sometimes, documenting evidence is easier said than done after an accident has occurred. You should know how to document evidence after a car accident in California.

One of the most important things you can do for your case is hire an experienced California car accident attorney. Having an experienced, reliable lawyer in your corner can make all the difference, especially when it comes to gathering and documenting evidence for your case. You will want someone who has experience handling car accident cases like yours, as well as someone who understands California’s car accident laws as they apply to your case.

Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

There are many important reasons to hire a car accident lawyer. Above all, you will want the right kind of legal support in your corner that can help you deal with potential setbacks, insulting settlement offers, and more. The legal team at Amendt Law has spent over 20 years providing our clients with a personalized, empathetic, and focused approach to their personal injury cases. We have helped hundreds of clients, and we are prepared to assist you as well.

According to recent statistical data from the California Office of Traffic Safety, there were over 4,000 car accident fatalities in the state in 2023 alone. According to additional data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, that number dipped to around 3,800 in the first half of 2024. Car accidents are common everywhere, and it only takes one negligent driver to cause serious trauma to your life. Contact a lawyer to seek damages.

Few situations in your life can be as hard on your mental health as surviving a traumatic event, such as a car accident. You should prioritize your health during this time and let your lawyer handle the details of your case. You should consider reaching out to a local mental health support group, such as NAMI California or CalHOPE. You may want a judgment-free zone to talk through everything you’ve dealt with since the accident. Talking to other people can be healthy.

How to Document Evidence After a Car Accident in California

The most important thing you can do after a car accident is document everything that may be remotely relevant. First, don’t flee the scene. California state law is very clear on the proper steps to take after being in an accident. Fleeing could result in serious legal penalties. Once you’ve cleared your head and checked for injuries, you can start documenting the scene. Here are some important steps to document evidence after a car accident:

• At the accident scene itself, you want to take as many photos of the scene as you can. Be sure to take photos of your injuries, the damage to all vehicles involved, the road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs. Ensure you speak with anyone who may have witnessed the accident, as they may be willing to provide a statement. Exchange information with the driver and report the incident to the police.
• Once you have left the scene, documentation does not end. Seek medical treatment immediately to obtain a medical record of your injuries. Be sure to keep a personal log of every doctor’s visit, prescription, and rehabilitation requirements. Be sure to speak with your insurance company and contact an experienced car accident lawyer to help you. They can guide you through the most effective way to compile your evidence.

FAQs

How Can I Collect Evidence After a Car Accident?

A reliable way to collect evidence after a car accident is to wait for the police to clear the accident scene and then start taking pictures. You can never take enough pictures. Be sure to take pictures of your injuries, the damage to each car involved, and the road conditions. If you can access any surveillance footage, your lawyer can assist you in using it. The more evidence you have, the easier it can be to succeed in your case.

What Information Should You Document About the Accident?

You should document any information you think might be relevant, because it probably will be. This includes gathering witness statements, consulting a doctor to obtain a valid medical record, filing and obtaining a police report, and obtaining a statement from your insurance company. Your lawyer can help prepare you for evidence-gathering and building a strong case. When it comes to building a case for compensation, you can never have too much evidence.

How Do I Document Injuries After a Car Accident?

The most reliable and effective way to document your injuries after a car accident is to take plenty of clear photographs and videos of those injuries. Even though you were likely checked out by EMTs at the scene, you should still see a doctor so you can obtain a medical record of your injuries. Gather all your medical records, including receipts and bills related to treatment, for your case.

How Long After a Car Accident Can You File a Claim in California?

In California, you will have two years from the date of your accident to file a valid claim for compensatory damages after a car accident. This is the standard statute of limitations on personal injury cases, which includes car accident cases. You will have two years from the date of the accident to establish grounds, build a strong case, gather evidence, speak with a lawyer, and file a claim for damages.

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Today to Know about Documenting Evidence after a Car Accident in California

Documenting evidence is one of the most important parts of a car accident case. Your lawyer can help you gather as much evidence as possible, but a lot of it will come from the actual scene at the time of the accident. At Amendt Law, we can help you determine the appropriate course of action for your case. Contact us to speak to a member of our legal team about your options.