If You Are in a Car Accident in the Philadelphia Metropolitan Area, It is Important to Document the Facts
Many times after a car accident, victims can be confused, anxious, or overwhelmed and do not think about the important documentation needed to prove their claim for property damages and injury.
In Philadelphia, many times the police do not arrive at the scene and sometimes participants in the accident who you assume are honest may get in their car and leave the scene. Our experienced Philadelphia car accident attorneys always recommend taking photographs with a cell phone or camera if one is available to document the property damage to the vehicles. It is important to take a picture of the license plate on the other vehicle, as well as the scene where the accident took place.
In an age of rising insurance premiums with insurance companies continuing to delay, deny, and defend claims, you should record all of the details of the accident, including the speed you were going, any traffic signals, a complete description on how the accident occurred, and the names and addresses of any witnesses. If you have any suspicion that you or one of your passengers has been injured, get to a hospital emergency room immediately for an evaluation.
Imagine that you are an investigative reporter or investigator and your task is to gather as much information as possible with the understanding that the other party may try to change their story to prove that it was not their fault and perhaps shift the burden of blame to you. If there are any skid marks, photograph them. If there are any road obstructions, missing or bent signs, potholes, or any other evidence that may provide insight into how and why the accident occurred, take pictures of them and record them thoroughly. Indicate the road conditions, whether traffic was light or heavy, and what the weather was like. If the other party made an apology or admission against his or her interests, make sure you note it. As chance favors the prepared mind, record everything keeping in mind that no detail is too insignificant.
The award winning experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyers of Reiff & Bily always offer a free, no obligation consultation and have a toll free hotline at (800) 421-9595 if you are involved in an accident.
