The testimony of eyewitnesses can make or break an accident claim, especially if the other driver fled the scene of the accident. If there were people who saw your accident happen, it’s important that you get in touch with them to help to substantiate the fault and injuries incurred. Here are some tips on getting the information you need to contact any witnesses to your accident:
The easiest way to get the information that you need to contact witnesses to your accident is to make contact with them at the crash scene. When speaking to them, get their name, contact information, and some basic information about what they saw.
If you are unable to talk to witnesses at the accident scene but are with friends or family who are more capable, ask them to speak to witnesses on your behalf. In some cases, an observer may even reach out to you first.
When police are called to the scene of an accident, they handle filing a report that’s as accurate as possible. To do so, police officers at the site of an accident will often consult with any available witnesses. If a witness gives the police officer valuable information, the name and contact information of the witness will be recorded.
If you’re unable to speak to a witness at the scene of your accident, you may be able to track them down at a later date by requesting a copy of your accident police report. You have a right to request copies of any accident reports from your own crash.
To apply for a police report, contact the police department in the city in which you live, or use Texas’ Crash Report Online Purchase System. The cost is $6.00 for a regular copy and $8.00 for a certified copy.
Tracking down witnesses on your own isn’t always easy, especially if you’ve been injured in the accident and are mentally or physically incapacitated. To handle finding witnesses for you, pouring through police reports, and interviewing witnesses, and getting a written testimony that can be used in your claim, call a lawyer.
The earlier that you contact a lawyer, the earlier that your attorney can speak to witnesses and make sure your claim is filed within the legal timeline of two years. At the Law Office of Julie Johnson PLLC, our legal team is ready to work on collecting evidence for you today! Contact us at 214-290-8001 to get started today.
