Driver Beware!

As a New York personal injury attorney, very often I appear on depositions of both my clients and people that we sue, defendants. I personally really enjoy them, especially when I am the one asking questions. Although, very often the depositions are pretty routine and after a while they all seem so strikingly similar, there is often a question or a circumstance that enriches my experience. Like the old saying goes, "life is full of surprises." That last deposition was supposed to be pretty straight forward. It was a two vehicle rear end collision wherein the driver which caused the collision fled the scene of the accident. In my mind I was prepared for a list of possible excuses and explanations that I have expected to hear from that driver, but he surprised me. Even though there were independent witnesses to the accident who reported to the police, the driver testified under oath that he was not at the scene of the accident, that he did not leave his house the entire day and that his car was parked in his driveway throughout that time!

The lesson to be learned is not that people can lie. That is pretty obvious. What is really important is to document the accident to avoid a situation like this. It pertains to all kinds of the accidents, regardless of whether it is an automobile accident, construction accident, an accident at work, or perhaps a slip and fall. If you were involved in an accident, make sure to notify proper authorities, call 911, remain at the scene, secure the names and contact information of any potential witnesses and remember that a picture says a thousand words. If you cell phone is equipped with a camera, you can take pictures right there on the spot.

If my client would have taken pictures at the scene of the accident depicting the other driver and his car he would not be able to deny his involvement. Such a simple action could have changed so much. You should always consult with an experienced personal injury attorney, but most of all be careful and be safe.