Witnessing a Car Accident
Not too long ago I witnessed a fairly violent car crash at an intersection in Abbotsford, BC. I was waiting to cross that very intersection. I can still picture in my mind and my thinking that just before the crash happened that it was going to happen. I immediately paid attention because I knew witnesses can be very valuable in shedding light which vehicle did what. I particularly looked to the traffic lights at the time of impact – because investigation intersection crashes revolve a great deal around what colour the traffic light was when the vehicles entered the intersection.
Violent, unusual events often resonate in our minds. This crash was such an event. Nevertheless, after the crash I immediately went to the scene to see if there was anything I could do. I gave my contact information to a driver, offered to call the paramedics and police (somebody beat me to it), and then carried on my way.
Now here’s the goofy part. As I said, I interview witnesses and assess car crash scenes as part of my living. Yet, I forgot to note the street names. Of course I know the Abbotsford intersection – I’ve been there many times before, but I couldn’t recall the names.
My witnessing this crash was instructive to me in that I can now better appreciate the fact a witness won’t recall or have seen every aspect of a crash. Lots goes on in 3 seconds or less. Often the first thought and biggest concern is the wellbeing of everyone involved. A car crash is can be a sensory overload – especially for those involved, but also witnesses.
That said, from a lawyer’s perspective, it’s very helpful when witnesses take a few moments after a crash to review in their minds the when, where, what, and how of a car accident. It’s also very important to offer contact information to the drivers. If you don’t offer contact information, there’s little chance any of the crash victims or their lawyers will be able to get in touch with you.
