Have you ever been in a car accident? Adrenaline floods your system, your mind spins and you have difficulty getting your head around what just happened. If you received an injury, you may not even feel it.
You may have done research on what you should do after an accident, but do you know specifically what you should document for your insurance company?
Get driver and vehicle information
The first thing you should document is the driver’s name, contact and insurance information. Then, collect the vehicle’s license plate number, make and model. You can write down or photograph the VIN number as well if you have access. Do this with every vehicle and driver involved in the accident.
Document the scene
Start with wide shots and/or a video that show the whole scene. Then get close-ups of the damage to the vehicles. Get accurate photos of the vehicles’ positions. Photograph any weather on the roads, such as puddles and rain. Write down information about the current weather. Also, photograph traffic signs or lights. Search for broken glass or other debris, bloodstains and vehicle safety features, such as deployed airbags.
Witness information
Write down the names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the scene and take photos of them. Write down the names and badge numbers of the law enforcement officers on the scene as well.
Local accident footage
Most businesses now have CCTV or surveillance systems, so ask them if they have any footage of your accident. You can also search online for posted footage.
Photograph your injuries
If you have visible injuries, get photos. When you seek medical attention, make sure you document all of your injuries on paper and visually through photographs.
For the best results, get as much documentation as you can after your accident.
