If you’ve been involved in a car accident, having strong photo evidence can make or break your claim for compensation. Thanks to smartphones and other handheld devices, capturing critical details of the scene is easier than ever—but it’s important to know what to photograph.
Certain photos can clearly show who was at fault, document your injuries, and strengthen your case. The more detailed and organized your visual evidence is, the better your chances of recovering full compensation.
Some of the kinds of photos you should take and what details you should capture are:
Before taking any photos, make sure everyone is safe and that 911 has been called. Start with wide-angle shots of the whole accident scene. These photos should capture:
The vehicles’ positions relative to each other and the road
Nearby landmarks or intersections
Any nearby traffic signals or signage
These wide shots set the context for all other details you’ll document.
Zoom in next on the condition of the road and any skid marks. These photos can help:
Determine the speed and direction of the vehicles
Show if either driver tried to brake before the collision
Identify the point of impact and the path of movement
Be sure to capture skid marks from multiple angles and distances.
Photos of traffic signs are essential for showing who may have violated traffic laws. Make sure to document:
Stop signs, yield signs, and traffic lights
Street signs or road markings (e.g., turn lanes or crosswalks)
Any obstructed signs that could affect visibility
Capture them from different perspectives—especially how they appear from the drivers’ points of view.
Thoroughly document all vehicles involved in the crash.
Include:
Wide shots of their positioning on the road
Close-ups of damage on all sides of each vehicle
Photos of impact points and crumpled areas
Debris on the road—note where it landed and how far it is from each vehicle
License plates, VIN numbers, and other identifying information
This kind of visual evidence can be key in proving the force and location of the impact.
If safe, take pictures of everyone involved in the accident—drivers, passengers, and any visible injuries.
Also consider:
Photographing witnesses at the scene
Capturing their general appearance and location
Documenting the injuries of those hurt (with their permission), which may be critical for showing immediate harm
Although some of these images may be graphic, they can serve as powerful proof in support of your claim.
Filing a car accident claim is a complex undertaking that involves a lot of rules, procedures, and dealings with parties such as attorneys and insurance companies. Even with extensive evidence at your disposal, you need an experienced attorney who can help you piece everything together and present a story that supports your claim.
An injury attorney can help you investigate your claim further and collect more documentation that can make your case stronger. The attorneys at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. have decades of combined experience in personal injury law and can help you get maximum compensation for your injuries.
Our car accident attorneys serve clients throughout the Chicago area, including Aurora, Elgin, Hinsdale, Joliet, Naperville, and Waukegan.
Call us today at (312) 236-2900 or contact us online for a free case evaluation.
When you’re fighting for maximum compensation, we know what it takes to get it.
