When you find yourself at the scene of a motor vehicle accident, you should document the details accurately.
Whether you are a passerby or directly involved, you should photograph the scene if you can do so safely.
Overall scene shots
In 2020, 35,766 people died in the approximately 5,250,837 car accidents that occurred, but many of these investigations could use additional information. Therefore, if you are at an accident scene, start by capturing wide-angle shots of the entire accident scene. Include all the vehicles involved and any relevant landmarks.
Document the status of traffic signals and signs at the time of the accident. This information can be important in determining right of way, whether any drivers violated traffic rules and the context and layout of the accident site.
Vehicle damage
Zoom in on each vehicle’s damage from various angles. Get clear shots of dented areas, broken lights and other visible damages. Do not forget to photograph the vehicle license plates.
Road conditions
Capture images of the road surface and surrounding conditions. Include skid marks, potholes or any other factors that might have contributed to the accident. These photos can help establish liability and provide context for investigators.
Injuries and emergency response
If it is safe to do so, photograph any injuries sustained by individuals involved in the accident. Additionally, document the arrival of emergency response teams, including ambulances and police. These images can provide a timeline of events and show the severity of the situation.
Witness statements
Capture shots of any witnesses and photograph them giving statements to the authorities. This can aid in corroborating testimonies and provide additional perspectives on the incident.
Accident scenes can be chaotic and stressful. However, photographing the scene can play a significant role in the outcome of the accident investigation.
