Car accidents can turn your life upside down in an instant. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision, what you do in the moments and days afterward can significantly affect your ability to recover compensation. Gathering the right evidence immediately after a crash—and doing so within the legal timelines—can make or break your personal injury claim.
At GriffithLaw Injury Lawyers, we help Tennessee crash victims preserve their rights and pursue the justice they deserve. Here’s what you need to know about collecting evidence after a car accident and how Tennessee laws may affect your case.
Why Evidence Matters in a Car Accident Claim
Car insurance companies don’t hand out fair settlements easily. They look for any opportunity to deny or minimize your claim. That’s why strong evidence is essential. It can:
- Prove the other driver was at fault
- Document the extent of your injuries and property damage
- Strengthen negotiations with the insurance company
- Support your case in court if it goes to trial
What Evidence Should You Gather at the Scene?
If you’re physically able, try to collect the following types of evidence as soon as the accident happens:
1. Photos and Videos
Use your phone to document:
- Vehicle damage (all angles)
- Skid marks or debris
- Traffic signs, road conditions, and weather
- Injuries to yourself or passengers
2. Contact and Insurance Information
Exchange:
- Driver’s license details
- License plate numbers
- Insurance company and policy numbers
3. Eyewitness Information
Get names, phone numbers, and statements (if possible). Witnesses can help confirm what happened before and after the crash.
4. Police Report
Always call law enforcement. A police report can provide an objective account of the accident, which is valuable evidence when fault is disputed.
Evidence to Collect After the Accident
The evidence-gathering process doesn’t stop at the crash site. As your case develops, continue compiling:
1. Medical Records
Keep detailed records of:
- Emergency room visits
- Doctor appointments
- Diagnoses, treatment plans, and prescriptions
- Therapy, rehab, or chiropractic visits
2. Repair Estimates and Bills
Keep all receipts and estimates related to your vehicle damage.
3. Lost Wages Documentation
Request official documentation from your employer showing missed time from work due to the accident.
4. Personal Injury Journal
Start a daily log of your physical pain, emotional trauma, and limitations on everyday activities. This can be a powerful form of evidence for pain and suffering claims.
Tennessee Car Accident Laws: Timelines & Legal Deadlines
Tennessee law places specific deadlines on how long you have to take legal action after a car accident.
Statute of Limitations
Under Tennessee Code § 28-3-104, (Tennessee Code § 28-3-104 .PDF) you have one (1) year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, your case could be permanently dismissed.
Important: Evidence can fade or be lost over time. The sooner you begin collecting and preserving evidence, the stronger your claim will be.