A witness report can be a crucial piece of evidence in personal injury cases. It is the statement of a person who has no interest or stake in the outcome of the case. If you have been in a car accident, you can ask anyone at the scene of the event to make a witness report.
What Information Should The Witness Include In The Report?
The courts do not require a specific format for a witness statement. It can be a simple handwritten or typed statement. However, there are two pieces of information that must be on the statement for it to be useful in court: the witness’ signature and contact information. The signature is the witness’ verification that the information provided is accurate. The contact information is necessary for verification.
In making a report, the witness should stick to the facts. The report should include as many details as possible. This can include the following:
- the witness’ position in relation to the accident site
- the time and date of the accident
- description of the vehicles involved
- the location of the crash (street address, intersection, etc.)
- the position of each vehicle before and after the crash
- how the crash occurred from the witness’ point of view
- where the witness observed damage to the vehicles
- if there was any damage to other property (buildings, fences, signs, etc.)
- if anyone involved in the accident had visible wounds or stated they were injured
- information on weather and lighting
- any unusual circumstances in the area
Who Should Take The Witness’ Report?
If a witness remains on the scene of the accident, a police officer will likely take a statement from that person. Be sure to obtain the contact information for all witnesses noted by the police. This will allow you to contact the witnesses to get your own report from each.
You may find, however, that witnesses do not stick around on the scenes of accidents. If you need to go to court, you may have to seek out witnesses yourself. This can happen by visiting businesses and homes in the vicinity. The more people you speak with, the more likely you are to find a witness to the accident.
It is very important that you do not try to manipulate the witness to your side of the story. A manipulated witness is a useless one when going to court.
If you have been in a car accident and sustained injury or property damage, you may need the help of a qualified attorney. Give us a call at Stockard, Johnston, Brown, Netardus & Doyle, P.C. in Amarillo, Texas. Our personal injury attorney can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.