What Role Do Witnesses Play in My Car Accident?

A witness is someone who has knowledge about a matter. In your case, this matter will be your car accident. And so, witnesses may provide oral or written testimonial evidence of what they saw. Follow along to find out more about the role that witnesses play in a car accident and how a proficient Tampa car accident lawyer at Merricks Law Group, P.A. can help you.

What are the potential witnesses to my car accident?

The odds are that there will be more individuals present than just you and the other driver that was involved in your accident. And so, the potential witnesses to your car accident are as follows:

• An individual walking down the sidewalk of the street where your accident occurred.
• An individual riding their bike in the bike lane of the street where your accident occurred.
• An individual driving their car on the street where your accident occurred.
• An individual who was a passenger in one of the cars involved in your accident.

And even if there was nobody present during the time of your accident, a witness may also be considered a close family member or friend who has seen how the accident has affected your day-to-day life (i.e., your injuries and damages).

What role do witnesses contribute in my car accident?

At the scene of the accident, a witness may approach a police officer and offer a statement regarding how your accident played out and who was at fault. Or, when you file an insurance claim, a witness may offer an oral or written testimony to the insurance adjuster. And if you take your claim to court, a witness can come to your defense by submitting written testimony or appearing for oral testimony. Overall, witness testimony can tip the weight of evidence in your favor.

Besides testimonial evidence, what else do I need for my car accident injury claim?

While testimonial evidence is helpful for your car accident injury claim, physical evidence is just as necessary. And so, you should take the following approach following your accident:

1. Call the police: a law enforcement officer will appear at the scene to conduct an official accident report, which you should obtain a copy of afterward.
2. Capture the scene: take photos and videos of your injuries, damages, and any contributory hazards that led to your accident.
3. Collect contact information: ask the other party for their name, phone number, license plate number, insurance policy name/number, etc.
4. Get medical treatment: attend the ambulance at the scene and schedule follow-up appointments as necessary, in which you should obtain copies of medical documents and bills afterward.

Importantly, you should ask present witnesses if they have any photos and videos of your accident, along with if they are willing to share their contact information with you. For more information, contact a talented Tampa auto accident lawyer today.