He Said, She Said: Using Witnesses To Settle Car Accident Issues
Fault is one of the most crucial aspects of an auto accident situation. In some cases, fault is determined at the scene and then confirmed with a quick investigation. In other cases, though, fault can be in dispute. Once fingers are pointing at each other, the case can come to a standstill. Fortunately, witnesses can help dispel cloudy issues as they assist in assigning fault. Read on and find out more.
Accident Evidence and Fault
When it comes to which driver caused the accident, evidence gathering begins with the responding law enforcement officer. As they interview the drivers, passengers, and others at the scene, an idea of how the accident occurred emerges. The information obtained all goes into an accident report. In many cases, the officer gleans enough information at the scene to establish fault for the accident.
The Experts Speak
When fault is not easily determined, experts may be contacted. Accident reconstruction experts and others provide insight into who caused the accident using computer modeling, reenactments, and more. They use information from a variety of sources to make a past accident come alive again. In some cases, the vehicles themselves contain information about speed, the direction of travel, and other facts.
In addition, much can be learned by reviewing photographs taken at the scene and later. The location of the damage on vehicles can tell experts quite a bit as can photos of marks on the pavement, roadside damage, and more. This type of expert may be used by your personal injury lawyer when negotiating a settlement as well as in preparation for a trial.
The Bystanders Speak
When you think about a witness in a car accident, many naturally think of the person out walking their dog or passengers in other vehicles at the time of the wreck. Almost anyone who saw the accident occur that can be located after the accident can be an eyewitness. Even though passengers riding in the vehicles witnessed the accident too, their testimony may not be as powerful as that of a relative stranger, for obvious reasons. Since their statements, and perhaps testimony, are so valuable, law enforcement will list their contact information on the accident form. Later, accident investigators will reach out to the eyewitnesses for statements before they forget what they saw.
Once the issue of fault is resolved, it's time to get the money you deserve.
Contact a personal injury lawyer for more information.
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