In the immediate aftermath of a car accident, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next. The health and safety of everyone involved in the accident should always be your top priority. Don’t stress yourself out collecting evidence or talking to witnesses if it’s not safe to do so. If you were involved in a minor accident or suffered minor injuries, you can talk to eyewitnesses and ask them some important questions. We have consulted with our Toronto car accident lawyers to determine what questions you should ask witnesses.
Can I have your contact information?
This may be the most important question you ask any eyewitness to an accident, even a minor one. Witnesses may themselves be in a state of shock and may not remember all the details they saw. They may also be in a hurry to get to work or another destination when the accident occurred. Eyewitness testimony can be incredibly helpful for insurance claims and personal injury claims. By obtaining the contact information of an eyewitness, you ensure that you will be able to reach them in the coming days or weeks if necessary.
Remember that adrenaline is often elevated after an accident, and while you may feel “fine”, it may take hours, days or even weeks before you realise the full extent of your injuries. Minor accidents can still result in neck injuries, whiplash, and concussions. You may also discover more damage to your vehicle than was visible at the scene of the accident.
Can you describe what you saw?
Accidents often happen seemingly out of nowhere. Witnesses can help you piece together the events leading up to the collision. Ask the witness to describe what they saw from their perspective. If possible, ask them to write it down, record voice notes, or even draw a picture. No detail can be too insignificant. Think about follow-up questions such as. When did you first notice the accident? Where were you at the time of the accident? What did you see or hear? These details may be important for filing a claim or answering questions from the insurance company.
Write these questions down and keep them in your car (or save the photo below) as part of your accident preparation kit. This will save you from having to guess what to do if you are involved in an accident.
It is extremely important to report the accident to the police. Whether they come to the scene or you file a report at the police station later, provide them with any witness information you have. The police may want to contact witnesses to get additional information or statements.
In Toronto, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit or your right to do so will be lost forever. Despite the two-year deadline, it is important not to delay, as other deadlines or circumstances may affect your claim.
Were you injured in an accident? We’re here to help.
You shouldn’t have to cover medical expenses or lost work time due to someone else’s negligence. A personal injury lawsuit can ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Even if you were partially at fault, you can still file a claim. We have been helping injured Torontonians since 1976, and our team genuinely cares about your well-being. Our Toronto car accident lawyers strive to reduce your stress so you can focus on your recovery.