Arlington, Texas, operates under a modified comparative fault system, meaning the amount of compensation you receive depends on your ability to prove that the other party was more at fault than you were.
With insurance companies always looking for ways to minimize payouts, it’s crucial to present clear, undeniable proof that shows exactly what happened, who was responsible, and the extent of your damages.
To win a car accident injury case in this city, you would have to do more than just hire an Arlington car accident lawyer. You would also have to prove it with undeniable evidence.
Insurance companies won’t just take your word for it. Courts won’t, either. You need proof, and not just any proof, solid, well-organized, clear evidence that shows exactly what happened, who was at fault, and how the accident has affected you.
Here are the major types of evidence you’ll need to boost your car accident case:
Right after the accident, if you’re physically able, grab your phone and start taking photos and videos. Capture everything, not just the damage to your car but the entire accident scene. Take wide shots that show the positioning of vehicles, skid marks, traffic signals, street signs, and even weather conditions.
Close-ups of damage, debris, and any visible injuries are also crucial. If possible, take a video walking around the scene and narrating what happened. All of this can help preserve your memory of the details later.
The police report is one of the most valuable pieces of evidence in any car accident case. When officers arrive at the scene, they document the details of the crash, including:
Statements from drivers and witnesses
The officer’s observations about the cause of the accident
Any citations issued (which can indicate who was at fault)
The location, time, and weather conditions
Always request a copy of the police report as soon as it’s available. If the report supports your claim, it adds an official and unbiased account of the accident to your case.
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Your medical records serve as documented proof of your injuries and the treatment you received. Keep track of:
Emergency room visits
Doctor’s diagnoses
Prescribed medications
Physical therapy sessions
Any ongoing treatments or surgeries required
Medical bills, including out-of-pocket expenses
The more detailed your medical records, the stronger your case for compensation.
If anyone saw the accident happen, their testimony could be crucial. A neutral third party’s statement can carry a lot of weight, especially if the other driver tries to dispute the facts. If you can, get the names and contact details of witnesses at the scene. A lawyer can later follow up to get formal statements that can be used in court if necessary.
You might not think this is important, but it is. Imagine the other driver tries to argue that your car had a mechanical failure that contributed to the accident.
If you have records showing your car was well-maintained, like recent brake checks, tire rotations, or engine servicing, you can shut down that argument before it even starts.
Sometimes, winning a case requires expert analysis. Accident reconstruction specialists can analyze the crash scene, vehicle damage, and road conditions to determine exactly how the accident happened.
Medical experts can testify about the severity of your injuries and the long-term impact they’ll have on your life. These professional opinions can be invaluable in proving fault and damages.
