The moments after a road traffic accident are often a blur of shock, confusion and anxiety. Once you’ve established that you and everyone are safe, your mind may start to race as the adrenaline wears off, and you try to piece together exactly what happened. But it’s in these critical minutes, hours and days that the foundation of a successful personal injury claim is built.
The key to it all? Evidence.
We often tell our clients that a strong claim is like a well-built house — a solid foundation is a must. And in the world of personal injury law, that foundation is compelling, comprehensive evidence. With it, it allows us to prove what happened, who was at fault and the impact the accident has had on your life. Which is why our expert on this matter has come together to provide this extensive guide that will explain the types of evidence that make all the difference:
1. The Immediate Aftermath: Photographic & Video Evidence
In today’s world, the most powerful tool you have at the scene of an accident is your smartphone. As you may have seen on Instagram reels and TikToks, photographs and videos create an indisputable visual record of the situation, where they capture details that can be vital later on when making a claim.
What to capture to make it viable evidence:
- Vehicle Positions: Before the vehicles are moved, take wide shots and video recordings that show their final resting positions in relation to the road, junctions and any landmarks.
- Vehicle Damage: Take close-up photos and videos of the damage to all vehicles involved. This can help accident reconstruction experts understand the speed and angle of the impact.
- The Wider Scene: Photograph and/or video the road conditions, any relevant road signs or traffic lights, skid marks and even the weather at the time.
- Your Injuries: While it may be distressing, taking clear photos and video recordings of any visible injuries like cuts, bruises or swelling can be very powerful.
The Rise of Dashcams: Dashcam or helmet-cam footage is now one of the most decisive pieces of evidence available. If you or any other party has this footage, it can often settle a dispute over liability almost instantly.
2. Independent Accounts: Witness Statements
An independent witness is a person who saw what happened but has no connection to either party involved. And it’s with their impartial account of events that can be incredibly persuasive.
If anyone stopped to help or saw the collision, it is crucial to ask for their details. At a minimum, try to get their name and phone number. With this, we can then contact them later to obtain a formal statement.
Don’t worry about interviewing them yourself, as securing their contact information is the most important step.
3. The Official Record: Police Reports
If the police attended the scene of the accident, they will have created an official report. This is a vital piece of evidence as it is an independent, professional record of the incident, which may contain:
- Details of all parties involved.
- A summary of the incident.
- Statements taken at the scene.
- A sketch of the accident scene.
- The outcome of any breathalyser test.
As your solicitor, we will formally request a copy of this report to use in support of your claim should there be any police who have been present.
4. Proving Your Injuries: Medical Records
To claim compensation for your injuries, you must prove their extent and how they were caused by the accident. This is why seeking immediate medical attention is not just essential for your health, but also for your claim.
Every visit to your GP, the A&E or physiotherapist creates an official record of your injuries, treatment and recovery progress. With these records, it’ll allow us to instruct an independent medical expert to assess you and prepare a detailed report for your case.
This medical report will then be the cornerstone of valuing your claim, as it provides a professional opinion on your recovery period and any long-term impact on your health.
5. Demonstrating Your Losses: Financial Documents
A personal injury claim is designed to put you back in the financial position you were in before the accident. This means you can claim for any financial losses you’ve incurred. But again, to do this, you need proof.
Which is why you’ll need to start a folder or file immediately and keep a record of everything, such as:
- Loss of Earnings: Payslips from before and after the accident.
- Medical Expenses: Receipts for prescriptions, physiotherapy or any other private treatment.
- Travel Costs: Receipts for taxis to medical appointments or public transport if you’re unable to drive.
- Care and Assistance: Even if a family member is helping you with daily tasks, their time can be valued and claimed for so it’s crucial to keep a record of this.
- Damaged Property: Invoices for repairs to your vehicle or receipts for replacing damaged items like a mobile phone, clothing or a child’s car seat.
How We’ll Build Your Case
Gathering evidence can feel like a daunting task, especially when you should be focusing on your recovery. But that’s where we come in.
Our job at RG Jones is to take all these pieces of the puzzle and assemble them into a clear, compelling case that proves your claim.
Keep in mind that we do this on a No Win, No Fee basis, which means you face no financial risk. It may seem too good to be true, but rest assured you won’t have to worry about funding the costs of pursuing compensation. If your claim is unsuccessful, you simply won’t have to pay our fees. Thus, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we focus on securing justice for you.
So if you’ve been involved in a road traffic accident, don’t underestimate the power of evidence. Contact us today at 0151 332 5252 or info@rgjonessolicitors.co.uk for a free, no-obligation initial consultation, and let us help you lay the foundation for the strong claim you deserve.
About RG Jones Solicitors
For over 20 years, RG Jones Solicitors has been dedicated to helping people who have been injured through no fault of their own. We are specialists in personal injury law, and our focus is always on you, our client. We pride ourselves on offering a professional service with a personal touch. Our lead solicitor, Rosaleen Jones, is consistently praised by clients for her approachable, efficient and supportive manner. It is with this dedication to our clients that drive us to secure the best possible outcome for you.
Upholding the Highest Standards
As personal accident solicitors, we adhere to the strict guidelines set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. We’re committed to acting with integrity, transparency, and professionalism throughout your case.