What Types of Evidence Are Important When Filing a Car Accident Claim?

Proving fault after a car accident can feel like an uphill battle, especially when facing mounting bills and trying to show how much the crash has impacted your life. The key to building a strong case lies in the evidence. Evidence helps establish responsibility, quantify damages, and highlight the actual consequences of the collision.

But which types of evidence matter most, and how do you collect it?

Discover the critical evidence needed to support your car accident claim and learn how experienced St. Louis car accident lawyers can assist you in building a credible case.

Police Reports: The Foundation of Your Claim

A police report is often the starting point for any car accident claim. Created by law enforcement officers at the scene, it provides a neutral third-party account of the accident, including:

• Date, time, and location of the crash
• Statements from involved parties and any witnesses
• Traffic citations issued at the scene
• Preliminary determinations of fault

You or your attorney can obtain the crash report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol and use it to support your version of events.

Witness Statements: Firsthand Accounts Matter

Eyewitnesses offer valuable insights that physical evidence may not capture, providing unique perspectives to support your case, such as:

• Highlighting the other driver’s actions leading up to the crash
• Strengthening claims of reckless or negligent behavior on the part of the other driver
• Backing up your version of events

Collecting statements soon after the accident helps preserve accurate details, making witness testimony even more reliable.

Photos and Videos: Capturing the Scene

Photos and videos from the accident scene can be valuable evidence for a collision claim. After an accident, aim to capture the following:

• Vehicle damage
• Road conditions, such as debris or wet pavement
• Skid marks that show speed and impact
• Any relevant signage in the area
• Any visible injuries right after the crash

This visual documentation can offer clear and unbiased proof of what happened, helping to show fault and the extent of the accident’s impact.

Medical Records: Proving the Extent of Injuries

One reason it’s so important to get a medical evaluation immediately following an accident is that medical records are essential for demonstrating its impact. They can document:

• Injuries sustained in the crash and their severity
• Treatments and procedures required for recovery
• Long-term prognosis, including permanent disabilities or ongoing care needs

These records link your injuries to the accident, countering any arguments from the opposing party that your injuries were pre-existing or unrelated.

Expert Testimony: Strengthening Your Case

Specialists like accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and economists can provide expert testimony to strengthen your case. These professionals might: 

• Review vehicle damage and skid marks to explain how the crash occurred
• Describe your injuries and their long-term effects on your life
• Calculate your financial losses, including medical bills and lost income

A qualified car accident attorney will have a network of professionals who can offer credible, science-based opinions that reinforce your claim.

Other Crucial Evidence

Additional evidence that can support your case includes:

• Insurance records showing coverage and claims filed after the accident
• Repair records documenting the cost and extent of vehicle damage
• Personal journals or notes from family and friends detailing how the accident has affected your daily life

These records can provide a fuller picture of the accident’s impact, bolstering your claim.

How St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers Can Help

Coping with serious injuries after a car accident can make it difficult to focus on collecting and presenting the evidence needed for your claim. At Cofman Townsley, our experienced auto accident attorneys understand the challenges you’re facing and move the burden off your shoulders by building a strong case on your behalf.

When you choose us, we:

• Investigate the accident and collect all necessary evidence
• Obtain police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage if available
• Work with experts to strengthen your case
• Present evidence to and negotiate with insurance companies
• Represent your interests in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached

Partnering with our knowledgeable team for legal representation allows you to prioritize your recovery while we manage the legal complexities of your claim.

Get Help from Skilled St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers

Filing a car accident claim requires careful preparation and strong evidence to secure a successful outcome. Whether you’re proving fault or demonstrating the full scope of your damages, the right evidence is essential to getting the compensation you deserve.

Don’t risk leaving compensation on the table. Contact our St. Louis car accident lawyers today to start building your case.