Car accidents happen anywhere and everywhere, with causes ranging from driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, and distracted driving. Missouri, for example, which is the 12th most deadly state in the US, is known to have busy highways and dangerous roads, with approximately 150,000 car accidents each year, according to the Missouri Department of Transportation. Cape Girardeau in Missouri, with a population of 40,565 in 2024 and still growing, surely experiences car accidents, too. If you are one of those involved in a collision, you might want to take the primary steps on what to do in a car accident, such as calling the police and seeking medical attention. But the Cape Girardeau car accident lawyers strongly advice one of the most important steps in a car accident: taking photos.
Taking photos of your car accident is very important. Photos or videos can be very good evidence in court if a trial follows. But how can you take the most accurate photos? Which angles should I take? What other things should I photograph?
Tip # 1 – Take Pictures of the Car From All Angles
You will need to get a shot of the cars that collided from every angle. Make sure to get a shot of all corners of each car to establish who is at fault according to the photos.
Tip # 2 – Take Pictures of the Damage
Taking a photo of how big the damage is to your vehicle can increase the compensation you will receive from the other party at fault. Dents and scratches can be measured by placing your finger or hand beside the dent or scratch and then taking a photo to establish how big the damage is.
Tip # 3 – Take Pictures Near and Far
You would also want to take pictures from afar, let’s say around 10 feet away from the collision. This way, a clear picture of the whole accident can be documented. Make sure to photograph all angles around the collision as well.
Tip # 4 – Take Interior Photos
Taking photos of the interior of your vehicle would also be necessary to see if other parts of the car are damaged, such as the dashboard, airbags, etc.
Tip # 5 – Document the Surrounding Area
Take shots of the area where the accident or collision happened. Photograph street signs, street markers, road lines, and street lights. It’s also good to take pictures of tire marks created on the pavement or dirt.
Tip # 6 – Make Sure to Take a Photo of Your Injury if Possible
In most injury claims, a photograph of bruises or cuts would be important. If you can’t take a photo of yourself, ask a witness to take a photo for you.
Tip # 7 – Focus on the License Plates
Never forget to take pictures of the license plate numbers of all vehicles involved. This will be essential for the police report.
Tip # 8 – Use a Good Camera
Use a good camera for taking pictures if possible. Anyway, smartphone cameras today are equipped with the latest technology to capture crisp and clear pictures as well as videos.
Crafting the Perfect Photo Book: A Memorable and Personal Gift(Opens in a new browser tab)
Final Thoughts
Accidents in Cape Girardeau may happen anytime, and accidents are always unexpected, even though you are the most cautious driver ever. Personal injury cases, such as car accidents, can be handled by expert law firms and personal injury lawyers.
Keeping accurate photographs or videos of the accident you are involved in can greatly help you receive compensation for the damages caused by the other party.