Tips for Taking Car Accident Scene Photos
Legally Reviewed and Edited by: Terry Cochran

Auto accidents happen, and when they do, stress follows for all those involved. First, you need to deal with your injuries, and then work with insurance companies to receive compensation.
Expenses can rise quickly. These costs can result from medical treatment, property damage, or lost wages. With so many potential costs, you should file an accident claim with the insurance company as soon as possible. You may also need to file a car accident lawsuit to get the damages you deserve.
Backing up your claim with photographic evidence of the car accident scene can help you win your case. If you are able, take photos shortly after the accident, before the police arrive. Be sure to receive medical attention first. Earlier photos show the position of each car and the road conditions at the time.
Whether you will be filing your claim through your own insurance company or seeking compensation from other drivers involved in the accident, providing photos of the accident scene can help expedite your claim.
Here are a few tips for taking photos of the car accident scene.
Focus on Details
Details will be important in your case, so take close-ups of the damage to your car and any other vehicles involved, including deployed airbags. Look for debris or car parts in the road or area, as well as any broken glass, leaking fluids, or skid marks. Also, try to take photos of your injuries as early as possible.
Since crash scene photos will be part of your evidence, focus on every detail you can find. What may seem minor or unimportant to you at the scene may be the decisive factor when you file your claim.
Car accidents led to approximately 4.4 million injured Americans in 2019 and also caused an estimated 38,800 fatalities. With so many insurance claims, you want to help yours get resolved quickly. Photos, along with legal advice, can help expedite the process.
Take Pictures from Multiple Angles
To capture the full accident scene, take photos from different angles and distances. Safely walk around the scene and snap pictures from at least three angles. Try to keep a landmark in each photo for orientation when printed out. Something may show from one angle that wouldn’t be visible from another.
Vary your distances also at each angle. Begin with close-ups, then slowly back away to 10 feet, then eventually 20 feet. Ensure that the license plates of the cars are visible in some of your photos.
Photograph Surrounding Area
While it may be tempting only to take photos of the crash, you should also include the surroundings. Take panoramic pictures if you can. Capture signs, weather conditions, buildings, construction equipment, faulty traffic lights, and anything else that may factor in later on.
Work with a Car Accident Attorney
Car accidents can wreak havoc in your life, from causing life-threatening injuries to causing financial hardship. The experienced car accident attorneys with Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C., know how to negotiate with car insurance companies and when to file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf.
Call our law office today at 866-MICH-LAW for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your legal options.
Disclaimer : The information provided is general and not for legal advice. The blogs are not intended to provide legal counsel and no attorney-client relationship is created nor intended.