When a car accident happens, it can leave victims feeling confused and stressed about what to do next. One of the most important steps in pursuing compensation is gathering the right evidence. Evidence can make or break a case—it tells the story of what happened and helps prove who was at fault. A San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyer plays a key role in this process, using their skills and resources to collect and preserve evidence that supports your claim.

 

1. Visiting the Accident Scene

The first step many lawyers take is visiting the accident scene. Even if the police have already made a report, a lawyer will often want to see the location firsthand. They look for:

  • Skid marks or tire tracks

  • Damaged road signs or traffic signals

  • Poor lighting or visibility issues

  • Obstructions that may have contributed to the crash

Taking photographs and videos of the scene helps preserve important details before they change or disappear. These images can later be used in negotiations or court.

2. Collecting Police Reports

A police report is an essential piece of evidence in car accident cases. It usually contains:

  • Basic accident details (date, time, and location)

  • Names and contact details of involved parties

  • Statements from witnesses

  • Officer's opinion about who was at fault

A San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyer will carefully review the police report to identify useful information and spot any mistakes that need to be corrected.

3. Speaking with Witnesses

Witnesses can provide valuable, unbiased accounts of what happened. Lawyers will:

  • Contact witnesses as soon as possible before their memories fade

  • Take recorded statements or written testimonies

  • Ask specific questions about what they saw before, during, and after the crash

Witness testimony can be powerful when proving negligence or clarifying conflicting versions of events.

4. Obtaining Traffic Camera and Surveillance Footage

Many intersections, businesses, and even homes have security cameras that might capture an accident. A lawyer will act quickly to request this footage before it's deleted or recorded over.

Surveillance or dashcam footage can show:

  • The exact moment of impact

  • Vehicle speeds

  • Traffic light changes

  • Actions of the drivers before the crash

This type of visual evidence can strongly support your claim.

5. Reviewing Vehicle Damage

The damage to the vehicles involved can tell a lot about how the accident happened. Lawyers often work with:

  • Accident reconstruction experts

  • Auto repair specialists

  • Insurance adjusters

They analyze things like the point of impact, the angle of collision, and the severity of damage to determine the force and cause of the crash.

6. Collecting Medical Records

If you were injured, your medical records are a critical part of your case. They help prove:

  • The type and extent of injuries

  • The cost of medical treatment

  • The link between the accident and your injuries

A lawyer will work with doctors and medical professionals to gather reports, test results, and treatment plans to show the full impact of the crash on your health.

7. Hiring Expert Witnesses

Sometimes, complex cases require expert witnesses to explain the evidence. Examples include:

  • Accident reconstruction experts – explain how and why the crash happened

  • Medical experts – describe the severity of injuries and long-term effects

  • Economic experts – calculate lost income and future financial losses

A lawyer ensures these experts present their findings in a clear and convincing way.

8. Gathering Phone Records

If distracted driving is suspected, a lawyer may request phone records to see if the other driver was texting or making a call at the time of the crash. This can be a strong piece of evidence when proving negligence.

9. Preserving All Physical Evidence

Physical evidence such as broken car parts, damaged personal items, or even torn clothing can help tell the story of the accident. A lawyer ensures these items are safely stored and documented for later use.

10. Organizing and Presenting the Evidence

Once all the evidence is collected, the lawyer organizes it into a clear and convincing case file. This file will be used during:

  • Negotiations with insurance companies

  • Mediation or settlement talks

  • Court hearings or trials

A well-prepared case supported by strong evidence often results in a better settlement offer and a higher chance of winning in court.

Why Quick Action Matters

Time is critical after a car accident. Skid marks fade, memories change, and video footage can be erased within days. A San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyer knows how important it is to act quickly to secure evidence before it's gone.

Conclusion

Evidence is the foundation of any successful car accident claim. By visiting the scene, speaking to witnesses, collecting official reports, and using expert analysis, a lawyer can build a strong case that protects your rights. If you've been in a crash, don't wait—getting legal help as soon as possible can make all the difference.