From Gumshoe To GPS: Evidence Collection In A Personal Injury Case
Much like strong walls are made from solid bricks, successful truck wreck cases are built with solid facts. To continue the analogy, it is an investigator’s job to collect as many facts as possible, and an attorney’s job to select the most favorable facts and assemble them in the best way possible. However, today’s investigator is just as likely to be a person with a lab coat as a 1980s TV detective with a fast car, quick wit, and a sharp tongue.
Established Methods
In many respects, the most important investigator is the victim. If possible, get the name and contact information of all witnesses. Take pictures as well, not only of the damage to the car and any personal injuries, but also of the surrounding area.
It is also imperative to see a doctor as soon as possible, but at least within 24 hours. If you have no money or no insurance, your attorney can typically arrange a doctor’s appointment for you at no cost. As a side note, it is always best to see a physician who has experience treating the kinds of injuries that you sustained.
If you were rushed to the hospital, ask a friend or family member to return to the accident scene right away and knock on doors.
New Methods
Effective last September, all new vehicles sold in the United States are equipped with an electronic data recorder. Much like the “black boxes” in airplanes, EDRs capture and record a variety of vehicle statistics in the critical moments just before a crash, such as brake application, steering angle, velocity, and airbag deployment.
Due to the state’s privacy laws, data on an automotive black box is confidential unless a judge orders otherwise. Therefore, it is important to partner with a lawyer quickly, so that this important evidence can be preserved for trial.
As cars become even more sophisticated, additional information may be available soon, like dash-cam video, GPS-based accident reconstruction, and other vital “bricks in the wall.”
To obtain the greatest possible compensation, contact an experienced New Braunfels personal injury attorney today. You have a limited amount of time to act.
Source:
