If you are the injured victim of a vehicle crash, you want to find out all you can about the circumstances as soon as possible.
Prompt scene investigation is essential in constructing an injury case. Your legal team can work with accident reconstructionists to determine the cause of the crash and who was at fault.
Roadway evidence
Investigators including professional forensic engineers and accident reconstructionists sort through various kinds of evidence resulting from a vehicle crash. Types of evidence include:
- Skidmarks
- Tire tracks
- Gouges in dirt or pavement
- Fluid stains such as brake fluid, engine oil and blood
- Damage to structures such as curbs, guardrails and telephone poles
- Glass from broken windshields and windows
- Cargo separated from the vehicles
Investigators will note the resting position of the vehicles and which way they were traveling at the time of the crash.
Scene mapping
Reconstructionists may employ scene mapping at the site of the crash. To do this, they will use surveying equipment to take measurements to prepare a diagram of the scene. They will also use video and photographs to document any evidence left behind.
Rapid response
The investigation of a crash scene should take place as soon as possible. Due to passing traffic, weather conditions, roadside mowing and other disturbances, evidence can swiftly disappear. The injured victim’s legal team will use this information in developing an injury claim. After determining cause, submitting a claim to the negligent party’s insurance company is the next step. Compensation should be full and fair, sufficient to cover the patient’s current and future medical expenses, lost wages and more.