By Attorney Kathryn B. Johnston
If you have been hurt in an accident, it is important to take action to preserve evidence and information that you may need in civil case.
The role of law enforcement offices is to try to determine whether any charges should be brought as a result of the collision or injury-producing event. The investigating officer is not responsible for preserving evidence that may be useful to you or a loved one in a subsequent civil action, including any claim for personal injuries or wrongful death.
Don’t risk losing important evidence
The limited role of law enforcement in investigating events causing personal injuries means it’s important that a personal injury victim or wrongful death survivor take prompt action following the collision or other event to preserve evidence needed to successfully prosecute his or her civil claim. In some cases, this may be done by simply taking photographs of the scene. However, in other instances, it is necessary to retain the services of a professional investigator, accident reconstructionist, or other expert to physically inspect the vehicles involved, inspect and photograph the scene, and obtain witness statements. The ability of experts to perform an accurate reconstruction of the injury-producing event is largely dependent upon the data available for the expert to review, and a delay in retaining such an expert often means the physical evidence (including the vehicles or other property involved) may no longer available.
Our attorneys are ready to help
One way to protect your evidence and your rights is to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who understands the importance of immediate investigation following a motor vehicle collision or other event. Shaheen & Gordon has more than 35 years of representing people who have injured and the families of those who have been killed in accidents. Our experienced, award-winning team of attorneys are prepared to handle even the most complicated personal injury case.
