Obtaining compensation after a car accident depends upon providing an accurate explanation of how the crash occurred. Witness statements are important pieces of evidence that can support your argument for who should be held liable for the crash. It’s a good idea to learn how to identify witnesses and what information you need in the unfortunate event that you are injured in an accident.
Learn more by contacting a Winter Haven car accident attorney at Brooks Law Group today. Your first consultation is free.
Importance of Car Accident Witness Statements
Evidence is crucial in any car accident case. It proves that someone else’s recklessness caused the crash. Even though Florida is a no-fault insurance state, if you exhaust your coverage or have sustained a serious permanent injury, you may still be able to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault party. But before claiming any compensation, you must convince the insurance company or negligent party that you were not at fault.
Lawyers rely on witness testimony to strengthen their cases, particularly when the eyewitness is an objective third party. Although statements from passengers who were in your car are helpful, the courts and insurance companies do not give them as much weight as accounts from others that do not have an interest in the case. This is why it’s important to find impartial witnesses and collect their statements as soon as possible.
How to Find a Car Accident Witness
While finding eyewitnesses to your car accident is important, you may not know where to start. Here are some tips:
- Talk to people at the scene: The easiest and most obvious way to find car accident witnesses is to start while you are still at the scene. If your injuries do not prevent you from doing so, identify people who saw the crash and get their names and contact information.
- Go back to the accident site: If you could not collect witness information at the time of the wreck, revisit the scene. Business owners and people that walk regularly in the area may have seen what happened or can refer you to someone who did.
- Obtain the police report: Police will speak to witnesses and include their contact information and statements in the accident report. Once the report is filed, make sure to get a copy.
It’s a good idea to look for witnesses as soon as possible after a crash. A car accident attorney will want to get witness statements while their memories are fresh.
What if There Were No Witnesses?
Not all car accidents happen when other people are around. If there were no witnesses to your crash, it’s even more important that you collect as much evidence as possible. This typically includes:
- Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries
- Video surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras
- Police report
- Insurance and vehicle information from all involved drivers
- Your own account of the accident, in writing
- Any physical evidence from the crash, such as bloody clothing or damaged property
Contact a Winter Haven Car Accident Lawyer Now
Finding witnesses can be a challenge, but working with an experienced attorney can make the process easier. At Brooks Law Group, our experienced Winter Haven car accident lawyers have the knowledge and resources to build a solid case that can win.
Schedule a free consultation by calling or contacting us today.
