Retaining the right evidence after a car accident is crucial in the event that you need to build a case for insurance claims, legal proceedings, or liability disputes. To help ensure you have the necessary evidence, here’s a list of important items to retain:

1. Police Report: Obtain a copy of the police report generated at the accident scene. This document includes details about the accident, involved parties, witness statements, and the officer’s assessment of the accident’s cause.
2. Vehicle Information: Vehicle Registration: Keep a copy of your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents. Vehicle Photos: Take pictures of the damage to all vehicles involved in the accident. Include close-ups and wide-angle shots to document the extent of the damage.
3. Driver Information: Driver’s License: Make copies of your driver’s license and the licenses of other drivers involved in the accident. Contact Information: Collect the names, phone numbers, and addresses of all parties involved, including passengers.
4. Witness Information: Obtain the contact information of any witnesses present at the accident scene. Their statements can be valuable in corroborating your account of the incident.
5. Accident Scene Evidence: Photos and Videos: Capture images or videos of the accident scene, including road conditions, traffic signals, and weather conditions. Skid Marks and Debris: Document any skid marks, debris, or other relevant physical evidence at the scene.
6. Medical Records: Keep records of any medical treatment you receive after the accident, including hospital bills, prescriptions, and any follow-up medical appointments.
7. Repair Estimates and Invoices: Maintain copies of repair estimates and invoices from auto body shops or mechanics detailing the damage and repair costs.
8. Correspondence: Preserve any correspondence related to the accident, including emails, text messages, or letters with insurance companies, the other party involved, or any legal representation.
9. Proof of Expenses: Keep records of out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident, such as rental car receipts, towing bills, and any costs associated with temporary transportation.
10. Notes and Journal: Document your own account of the accident, your injuries, and the impact it has on your daily life. This can serve as a personal record to help refresh your memory during any legal proceedings.
11. Surveillance Footage: If available, secure any surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras that may have captured the accident.
12. Insurance Policy Information: Maintain a copy of your auto insurance policy, including declarations and coverage limits.
13. Legal Representation: If you hire an attorney, keep records of their communications and any documents or evidence they request.
14. Accident Diagrams: Create or obtain diagrams of the accident scene, indicating vehicle positions and points of impact.
15. Vehicle Maintenance Records: If relevant, provide maintenance records to establish that your vehicle was in good condition at the time of the accident.

It’s important to act promptly in gathering and retaining this evidence, as memories can fade, and documents may become harder to obtain as time goes on. Additionally, consult with an attorney if you intend to pursue a legal claim, as they can provide guidance on which specific evidence is most relevant to your case.