Our Chicago car accident lawyers encourage those who have been in a serious accident to gather as much evidence at the scene as possible. This often includes photos taken by you or a relative, which can be invaluable in fighting for your rights long after a crash.
Now you can record video in real time … just in case. As we continue to report technologies impact on driving safety — both the good and the bad — the story of a Knoxville man who used a cell-phone app to help track down a hit-and-run driver is certainly out there on the cutting edge.
Nic Bender’s vigilance might be a bit extreme, but it certainly proves the technological point. He had just dropped his kid off at daycare when he was sideswiped by a passing sedan that didn’t stop. Other drivers might have been flummoxed. But not our Nic. He had decided to use a smartphone application called Daily Road Voyager … just in case.
His cell phone attaches to the car windshield and the application records his commute. Knoxville police say the resulting video is legitimate evidence that will be used as part of the investigation.
“Technology is changing, so we do expect to see more of this in the future,” Knoxville Police spokesman Darrell DeBusk told NBC10 News. “It is getting to the point where you cannot go out into public without the possibility of being recorded by someone.”
We’re not sure Chicagoans are going to record their vehicle’s every move just in case they are involved in a fender bender — but we are not so sure the technology won’t be standard equipment installed by car makers in the not-too-distant future.
As a general rule, motorists in an accident should take pictures of the scene whenever possible. Such evidence can prove useful if a lawsuit results. Road conditions change. Weather changes. Vegetation may grow or be trimmed back. Buildings may be constructed or torn down. Street signs or signals may be removed or added.
Gathering as much information from the scene — including the names and contact information of any witnesses — is always a good idea.
Nic’s just a step ahead of the rest of us.
Those involved in a car accident in Chicago or the surrounding area can contact Abels & Annes for a free and confidential appointment to discuss their rights. Call (866) 99-ABELS. There is no fee unless you win.