Eyewitnesses Role in Auto Accident Cases
An eyewitness’ role in an auto accident case is to provide evidence. They can testify as to when the accident happened, who caused it, and what happened in the collision’s immediate aftermath. Yet, eyewitness testimony is just one piece of information that could support your case.
We build comprehensive cases for injured claimants after they survive an auto accident. Not only can we obtain eyewitness testimony, but we can also gather other information to supplement your car accident case. Dial (954) 633-8270 to start a free case review.
Eyewitnesses Can Offer Valuable Information Following an Auto Accident
An eyewitness saw the accident happen with their own eyes. They can offer a firsthand account of what occurred and explain whether:
- The other driver violated traffic laws
- The paramedics arrived
- Anyone fled the accident scene
- Anyone shared incriminating information (i.e., admitting intoxication)
They can also describe the injured party’s condition at the accident scene. For instance, if the eyewitness rendered first aid, they can share whether the injured claimant suffered blood loss, unconsciousness, or pain.
Who Could Be an Eyewitness in an Auto Accident Case?
As noted, an eyewitness is anyone who saw the collision themselves. Eyewitnesses could include:
- Bystanders
- Other road users
- First responders
- The police
- Shoppers inside nearby businesses
One of the best ways to secure eyewitness testimony is to get their contact information at the collision scene. Getting this information might not have been at the forefront of your mind amid the accident’s chaos. In that instance, your Miami car accident lawyer could investigate your crash and obtain these details for you.
Could a Passenger in My Car Offer Testimony About the Accident?
To get the “full picture” of what happened, our team may interview passengers in your car at the time of the accident. However, the insurance company may not take their testimony seriously, claiming that they’re biased. After all, you likely have a relationship with them, and they’ll likely want to paint you in a good light.
In our experience, the best witnesses are those who have no personal stake in your case’s outcome. With an unbiased witness, the insurance company can’t discredit their testimony and your claim.
Witnesses Aren’t Just People Who Saw the Accident Happen
In personal injury cases, there are two types of witnesses. Eyewitnesses are just one piece of the puzzle. Field consultants are also witnesses who can use their insights to further validate your case. They can do more than explain your accident’s cause; they can attest to the severity of your condition, the pain you endured, and how much you could recover.
These parties can include:
- Medical experts: These professionals can attest to the severity of your condition and the treatment you required. For instance, your physical therapist can verify the treatment you needed and the limitations to your mobility.
- Accident reconstruction specialists: Using a combination of physics and computer simulations, these professionals can demonstrate how accidents happen. Their testimony could prove important when determining fault for the accident.
- Professionals in your field of employment: Your injuries may prevent you from regularly working. To learn what you’re owed for lost tips, bonuses, benefits, and salary, someone from your career field could explain.
- Mental health counselors: Mental anguish could comprise a substantial portion of your injury claim’s value. Yet, it doesn’t come with an inherent financial cost. Using your therapist’s testimony, we can verify the mental health complications you developed after the collision.
In the 20-plus years we’ve served injured people, we’ve fostered a network of consultants, including the ones listed above. To further support your case, we can talk with these experts and use their insights to fight for compensation.
Other Evidence Could Support Your Injury Case
Aside from witness testimony, other evidence in your case could include:
- The police report, which must include the names and addresses of any witnesses, per Florida Statutes § 316.066
- Traffic camera footage
- Photos of the accident scene
- Your imaging scan results (such as x-rays)
- Crash-related receipts and invoices
- Correspondence between yourself and the involved parties
The Insurance Information Institute (III) says that after an accident, you should assess the damage and gather as much evidence as you can. If you are unable to collect evidence, our team can find this information to support your auto accident case.
Your Case’s Evidence Must Establish Negligence
Negligence is the cornerstone of your injury case. It asserts that:
- The other party had a duty of care to act with reasonable caution.
- The other party failed in this obligation.
- You suffered injuries in a collision the negligent party caused.
- You suffered damages, such as medical bills and lost income.
You can’t simply allege negligence and hope to recover damages. You must have evidence, such as eyewitness testimony, to support these factors.
Begin Your Free Auto Accident Case Review With the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato
To learn more about the roles of eyewitnesses in auto accident cases, feel free to connect with our injury team. Law Offices of Wolf and Pravato can also discuss other details relevant to your case, including your next steps. Call (954) 633-8270 to begin.
