Information and Insight for Injured Iowans

Protecting Yourself After an Iowa Truck Accident Means Taking Photographs

      You have heard the saying, ”A picture is worth a thousand words”?  After an Iowa tractor trailer crash, the right photograph might be the difference between fair compensation for your injuries and leaving the courthouse with nothing.  That is why competent Iowa truck accident lawyers advise their clients to start taking photographs as soon after a semi collision as possible.
      The injury victim or the victim’s family ultimately has the burden of proving how the crash occurred and what damage it caused.
     Even if you believe the investigating officer or an insurance company representative took photographs, you should still get photographs taken on your own. Have all photos taken both up close and from a distance. Have three times as many photographs taken as you think you will need. In particular, get the following types of photos taken:

• Photos of the accident location: Take photos of the scene both from the direction of your approach and from the direction of the other driver’s approach. Take photos of all skid marks and measure them. Take photos of any debris left by the crash before moving it.
• Photos of your vehicle: Do not have your vehicle repaired before it is photographed. Take photos from all angles- the outside, the interior, even the undercarriage
• Photos of your injury: Take photos of all visible injuries. Take photos of all bruises, scrapes, cuts, etc. while they are fresh.
• Photos of your medical treatment: Have photos taken of you in the hospital. Have photos taken of all casts, slings, and bandages. If you are prescribed the use of a wheelchair, walker, or crutches, get photos of those as well.

     When in doubt, take the photograph. If your case has to go to trial, a jury is more likely to award you fair compensation if it can actually see what you have been through.
To read about more ways to protect yourself after a truck accident, go to Iowa Truck Accident Facts to download a free 35-page guide.