816-326-2968If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Missouri, the success of your personal injury claim hinges on one essential factor: evidence. From police reports to photos at the scene, the documentation you gather can significantly affect whether your claim is approved and how much compensation you may receive.
Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule. That means even if you’re partially responsible for the accident, you can still recover damages—though your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Because of this, having solid, well-organized evidence can make all the difference in establishing who was at fault and how much you’re owed.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the most important types of evidence in a Missouri car accident case.
1. Police Reports
One of the first and most important pieces of evidence is the official police report. In Missouri, you’re required to report a car accident to law enforcement if:
- There are injuries or fatalities
- Property damage exceeds $500
- The other driver is uninsured
Police officers are trained to observe accident scenes and provide unbiased, third-party documentation. These reports typically include:
- Contact and insurance info for drivers involved
- Witness statements
- Weather, lighting, and road conditions
- Diagrams or narratives about how the accident occurred
- Any traffic citations issued
You can request a copy of the police report through the Missouri State Highway Patrol or local law enforcement agency. This report often serves as a cornerstone for proving fault and liability.
2. Photos and Videos of the Accident Scene
Visual documentation is powerful, especially when it clearly shows the scene right after the crash. If you’re physically able, take photos or videos of:
- Vehicle positions before they’re moved
- Damage to all vehicles involved
- Skid marks, debris, or road signs
- Weather or traffic conditions at the time of the accident
- Your own visible injuries
Photos can help recreate how the accident happened and serve as a visual timeline. This type of evidence often influences insurance adjusters and juries alike.
3. Witness Statements
If there were any bystanders or other drivers who witnessed the accident, their statements can be invaluable. Missouri courts value independent testimony, especially when fault is disputed.
Try to gather:
- Names and contact info of all witnesses
- Brief written or recorded statements (with their permission)
- Notations of what they saw and when
- Statements taken soon after the crash are typically more accurate and credible.
4. Medical Records and Bills
Medical documentation connects your injuries directly to the car accident. This is crucial not just for proving the harm done to you, but for determining how much compensation you’re entitled to receive.
Keep a record of:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays
- Follow-up appointments
- Prescriptions and therapies
- All related expenses, including transportation to medical facilities
Also, ask your healthcare providers for detailed treatment notes and injury diagnoses. These reports can be used by your attorney or expert witnesses to establish how the accident impacted your health—both immediately and in the long term.
5. Vehicle Damage Reports
A detailed repair or damage assessment from a certified mechanic can provide further insight into the crash. It may show:
- The point of impact
- Force of the collision
- Whether a defect or pre-existing condition contributed to the accident
If the insurance company disputes how serious the crash was, damage documentation from a qualified technician can reinforce your case.
6. Phone Records (When Distracted Driving Is Suspected)
Distracted driving is a leading cause of crashes in Missouri. If you suspect the other driver was using their phone at the time of the crash, phone records can provide proof.
Through legal discovery (or with help from your attorney), phone records may reveal:
- The driver was texting or calling during the time of the accident
- Their phone activity contradicts their statement about what happened
- This kind of evidence may prove negligence and increase your chances of full compensation.
7. Traffic or Surveillance Camera Footage
In cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, or Springfield, your accident may have been captured on traffic or security cameras.
Video evidence can:
- Prove who had the right of way
- Show if a traffic light was ignored
- Reveal the exact sequence of events before the crash
Most traffic footage is deleted within days or weeks, so it’s essential to act quickly and work with your attorney to request access.
8. Employment Records and Lost Wages
If your injuries prevented you from working, you’ll need proof of lost income. Save:
- Recent pay stubs or direct deposit records
- A letter from your employer confirming time missed and wages lost
- Tax documents showing prior earnings
You may also be able to claim loss of future earning capacity if your injuries are long-lasting or permanent.
9. Expert Witness Testimony
In some cases, your attorney may work with expert witnesses to further strengthen your case. These experts can include:
- Accident reconstruction specialists, who recreate how the crash occurred
- Medical professionals, who explain the impact and permanence of your injuries
- Vocational experts, who testify how your injuries affect your ability to work
In Missouri courts, expert testimony is often persuasive and can sway a jury in your favor.
10. Your Own Notes and Journal
Finally, don’t underestimate the value of your personal notes. After the accident, write down:
- How the crash happened in your own words
- Symptoms or pain levels you experience each day
- Emotional struggles such as anxiety, PTSD, or sleep issues
- Missed life events or daily activities you’re no longer able to do
This kind of personal account may not be “formal” evidence, but it can support claims for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Why This Evidence Matters
Every piece of evidence tells part of the story. In Missouri, where pure comparative fault applies, the strength of your evidence directly influences your compensation. The clearer and convincing your evidence, the better your chance of reducing your own liability and maximizing your recovery.
Whether you’re handling your case alone or working with a personal injury attorney, being proactive about collecting and preserving this evidence is key. If you or a loved one have been hurt, Aramjoo Law Firm is here to serve you. Contact us today at (816) 479-5898 or online to schedule your free consultation.