The documentation of the accident is one of the essential things you should do at the onset of an accident. It is because this will serve as the basis for your claim. The more information is collected, the better your chances of coming up with a winning settlement.
It is important to obtain as much evidence as possible, especially information that can be used to substantiate your damages, such as witnesses’ statements, police officer reports, photographs of the accident site and its aftermath, photos of damages incurred in or by vehicle, or medical records from doctors or hospitals that treated you during and after the accident. You can also seek the help of a Philadelphia car accident attorney to investigate the accident and collect more evidence substantial to your case.
Here are different kinds of information you should try to gather at the onset of the accident from the spot.
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1. Contact information of every motorist involved in the accident
You should not just simply ask for their names, but also the address and phone number of every motorist involved in the accident. In fact, it will be better if you record your conversation as it will serve as complementary evidence if the need arises to file a case against them.
2. Insurance information of all motorists
Inquire if they have car insurance. If so, request their policy number and insurance company name. You can even ask for a copy of their driving license. If they do not have any insurance, ask for the name and contact number of their insurance agent.
3. Contact information of witnesses at the spot of the accident
You can also ask for the contact details of witnesses at the spot, such as their names, phone numbers, and addresses. Asking them to come to your house or office sometime after the accident to give witness statements is also an effective way of getting more information.
4. Photos of the accident site
You can use your cell phone camera to take photos of the accident spot with you present. Additionally, you do not have to limit yourself to the place itself, but also include other background elements in the photo, such as road signs and trees.
5. Details of vehicles involved in the accident
Aside from the make, model, and year of manufacturing of the vehicle, you should also note down its license plate number. You have to be as detailed as possible to ensure that it will match the license plate number on their insurance policy.