Getting into a car accident is stressful enough on its own, but trying to handle a legal claim after the wreck can make things feel impossible. For better or worse, however, the success of your case depends in large part on the quality of the evidence you can gather and present.
In Tennessee, the initial burden of proof is on the injured party to show that another driver was negligent and caused the crash. The right evidence can make the difference between a denied insurance claim and a successful recovery.
Here’s a closer look at the most important types of evidence that can support your car accident claim.
The Police Report
One of the first and most valuable pieces of evidence is the official police report. When officers respond to a crash, they document what they observe, collect statements from those involved, and may include an initial opinion about who was at fault.
Insurance companies and courts often rely heavily on this report. It can establish key details such as:
- The date, time, and location of the accident
- Weather and road conditions
- Witness statements
- Whether any citations were issued
- A preliminary assessment of fault
Always call law enforcement after a collision and request a copy of the report as soon as it’s available. Note that while police reports may be considered “hearsay” in a court of law (making them inadmissible as evidence), they can still be used during settlement negotiations. You can also call the police officer as a witness during trial and utilize the contents of the report for your case that way.
Photos and Videos From the Scene
Visual evidence can be some of the most persuasive proof in a car accident case. If it’s safe to do so, take photos and videos of the crash scene immediately after the accident. Capture things like:
- Vehicle positions and damage
- Skid marks
- Traffic signs
- Nearby landmarks
- Visible injuries
- Road and weather conditions
This documentation can help accident reconstruction experts determine how the crash occurred and who was responsible. Dashcam or surveillance footage from nearby businesses can also be extremely helpful in proving liability.
Medical Records and Bills
Your medical records and other accident-related documentation serve as the foundation for proving your injuries and calculating damages. They can link your condition directly to the accident and demonstrate the financial and physical toll the crash has taken. Keep detailed records of all:
- Emergency room visits and diagnostic tests
- Doctor appointments and prescribed treatments
- Therapy or rehabilitation sessions
- Medical bills and receipts
Follow your doctor’s instructions closely, as gaps in treatment may give insurers an excuse to downplay your injuries.
Witness Statements and Expert Testimony
Eyewitnesses can provide objective accounts of what happened. Their statements may confirm that another driver ran a red light or was speeding, for instance. In more complex cases, experts such as accident reconstructionists, medical specialists, and economists can explain how the crash occurred and how it has impacted your life.
An Experienced Tennessee Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Gathering evidence can be overwhelming while you’re trying to recover from a serious car accident. An experienced attorney can help you file a claim for maximum compensation while you focus on your health and well-being.
Don’t wait too long, however, as Tennessee law gives you only one year to file a personal injury claim after a car accident in most cases. Contact our car accident attorneys with Woodard Injury Law today for a free consultation and let us help you secure the evidence you need to win your case.