Let us say that having sustained a spinal cord injury in a vehicle crash, you will need medical treatment for the foreseeable future.
Discovering the cause of the accident and the party responsible begins with a thorough crash scene investigation, which should go forward without delay.
Timing is critical
An investigator should commence work at a vehicle crash site as soon after the accident as possible. Traffic disturbances, inclement weather, mowing and other issues can destroy important evidence that helps establish the cause of the crash and who or what was responsible.
Types of evidence
When police officers arrive at the crash site, they will mark items or locations of note with flags or spray paint. However, the scene will hold many kinds of evidence, some of which will remain unmarked:
- Skid marks
- Tire tracks
- Fluid stains, such as transmission fluid, engine oil or blood
- Vehicle debris
- Glass from broken windows or windshields
- Gouges in dirt or pavement
- Points of vehicle impact
- Damage to guard rails, telephone poles, curbs, mailboxes and more
Investigators can map the scene showing roadway evidence and use photographs and video to document the crash site. Measurements taken with survey equipment can provide more precise information as to how the accident occurred. An investigator will also inspect any defects in the road to determine whether design flaws, potholes or other roadway issues played a part in the accident.
Experience matters
As the victim of a vehicle crash, you have a right to expect full and fair compensation to cover your medical expenses, both current and future, any loss of wages, pain and suffering, and more. Explore your legal options without delay. An attorney who is also certified in the investigation and reconstruction of motor vehicle accidents will advocate on your behalf and begin the crash site investigation at once while the evidence is still fresh and undisturbed.