Cell phones and driving typically don’t mix; in fact, many states ban the use of cell phones when you’re behind the wheel of a car. However, cell phones can come in handy if you’re involved in an accident. Using the camera feature on your cell phone is a great way to preserve evidence if you get into a crash. Some insurance companies even have apps that allow you to upload photos directly from your phone in order to process an insurance claim. If you’re involved in a car crash, be sure to use your cell phone camera to establish proof of your injuries and damage to your vehicle, and to provide information you’ll need for any possible insurance claims or lawsuits.
Photos of Your Vehicle
You will need to take photos of your vehicle to establish the damage incurred in the accident. Take photos of all sides of the exterior of your vehicle, focusing primarily on the damaged areas. Take photos from a variety of angles and distances. Closer photos will give you a more detailed view of the damage, while a more distant shot will help to provide some background and context. Depending on the lighting, you might also try taking photos with and without flash. Snap a quick picture of your license plate, too, for quick and easy identification of the vehicle.
Be sure to take photos of the interior of your vehicle, as well. Photograph any interior damage, such as cracks to the dashboard or a broken seat belt, and get pictures of the airbag if it has deployed. Take photos of broken window glass inside and outside your vehicle. It’s also a good idea to take a photo of your car’s odometer and the VIN number. These items help to provide photographic ID.
Photos of the Other Vehicles
Don’t just take photos of your own vehicle; take photos of all the vehicles involved in the accident. Depending on the comparative sizes and styles of the vehicles involved, one may show much more or much less damage than another. You should take photos of both the interior and exterior of every vehicle involved in the collision, if you can. Be sure to get photos of the license plates of every vehicle, as well.
Again, take photos from different angles and distances. Walk down the road a little way (if you can do so safely) and snap some pictures of the full accident scene. It is especially important to take photos of any skid marks on the road, damaged street signs, or other roadway evidence. The compilation of all of these images will help to set the scene and show the full picture of the crash.
Photos of Your Injuries
If you’re injured, you should take photos of your injuries right away, or as soon as you can. Include any sutures, braces, casts, or other medical treatment that you receive. It’s also a good idea to take additional photos of your injuries in the following days; bruises may take several days to fully develop, so the full extent of your injuries may not be visible immediately after the crash. It can be difficult to photograph your own injuries, so enlist a friend or family member to help you get clear pictures from a variety of angles, distances, and lighting situations.
Compensation for Injuries
If you’re injured in a car crash as the result of another driver’s negligence, you’re entitled to compensation. This includes compensating you for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. In order to protect your rights, you should contact the Illinois personal injury attorneys at Cullotta Bravo Law Group right away. Cullotta Bravo Law Group has more than 30 years of experience and has gotten millions of dollars in settlements for their clients. If you get in a car crash and are injured because of another driver’s negligence, you need an attorney to protect your rights. Contact Cullotta Bravo Law Group by calling them at 630-898-7800, or send them a message online at Cullotta Bravo Law Group right away.
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