Every day, Missouri drivers are involved in car accidents. At stop signs, on highways, during rush hour – there are a number of causes for crashes across the state. When you’re the one involved in an accident, you might be dealing with injuries, damaged property, and mental trauma. If you were injured in a Missouri car accident, you may be entitled to compensation, and putting together evidence is a critical step in receiving a settlement.
What Types of Evidence Play a Role in Missouri Car Accident Cases?
Proper evidence is crucial in deciding who’s at fault in a car accident. There are several types of evidence to think about when building a car accident case. The more evidence you can gather, the better your chances are of successfully proving your case.
Police Report
A police report serves as a key piece of evidence in your car accident case. Missouri law states that you must report car accidents that result in injury, death, or over $500 in property damage. It’s always a good idea to call 911 after a car accident, both to obtain an official report and to seek medical attention. The police report serves as a fact-based account of the accident as stated by the reporting officer. Because Missouri uses comparative negligence to determine fault, the police report is also important for filing a claim or lawsuit. Be sure to ask for your own copy of the report to share with your lawyer and insurance companies.
Pictures or Videos
If possible, try to take pictures or videos after being involved in a car accident. Document the scene, all vehicles involved, and any other injuries or property damage. Photographic evidence is strong in proving car accident cases, and the more proof you have, the better. Depending on the location of the accident, there may be video footage from a nearby security camera. A car accident attorney can help obtain such evidence to help build your case.
Medical Bills
Unfortunately, injuries are common in Missouri car accidents. Concussions, whiplash, and broken bones affect thousands of Missouri drivers who have been involved in an accident. If you were injured in a car accident, no matter how minor, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Save all your doctor’s visits, physical therapy appointments, surgery bills, and other documentation that pertains to your car accident injury.
Witness Statements
Eyewitnesses can provide a different perspective that can confirm your story and serve as evidence in your car accident case. A witness could be a pedestrian or driver of another vehicle who saw what happened. Perhaps someone driving by caught the collision on his or her dashcam. Gathering witnesses who can provide their account of what happened to you and the police will serve as a helpful piece of evidence.
Missouri Car Accident Attorneys
Proving your side in a car accident case is a big job – one you don’t have to do alone. A Missouri car accident lawyer at Dreyer & Tinney can help you gather evidence and build your case so you get the compensation that you deserve. We assist clients across the state by using our expertise in Missouri law and experience with car accident cases. Our attorneys work with you every step of the way by exploring every avenue until you receive the fair compensation for your damages. Schedule a consultation with Dreyer & Tinney to go over your case and start seeking justice.