When you’re involved in a car accident, evidence can make or break your claim. While photos, police reports, and medical records are crucial, one often overlooked element is eyewitness testimony. A credible third-party account can shed light on how the accident occurred, especially when there are conflicting stories or a lack of physical evidence.
We know how valuable it is to have a strong witness on your side. In this blog, we’ll break down how eyewitness accounts can impact your case and what you need to know to use witness statements effectively.
How Important Are Eyewitnesses in a Car Accident Case?
Eyewitnesses can play a major role in determining fault after an accident. Their unbiased perspective on what happened—such as which driver ran a red light or who failed to yield—can either support your claim or call it into question. In cases where both drivers involved point fingers, a witness can be the deciding factor that tips the scales.
Courts and insurance adjusters often give weight to these statements, especially when the witness has no personal connection to the parties involved. Their account provides insight into the circumstances surrounding the crash and helps resolve conflicting testimonies.
Can an Eyewitness Help My Car Accident Claim?
Absolutely. An eyewitness can validate your version of events, offering details you may not have even noticed in the moment. Did the other driver appear distracted? Was someone speeding or ignoring traffic signs? These are the kinds of observations that can strengthen your personal injury claim.
Insurance companies are more likely to take a claim seriously when there’s consistent, third-party support. A reliable witness can help establish a clear timeline, confirm key facts, and demonstrate that you weren’t at fault—sometimes even speeding up the process.
What Makes a Good Eyewitness in a Car Accident?
Not all car accident witnesses are created equal. A good witness is someone who was in a position to see the accident scene clearly, has a good memory, and doesn’t have a stake in the outcome. Credibility is key—someone who’s calm, consistent in their story, and able to recall specific details can have a powerful impact on your case.
Insurance companies and attorneys often evaluate a witness’s ability to recall time, location, and vehicle behavior. Inconsistent or vague statements can actually hurt more than help, so quality matters just as much as quantity.
How to Get an Eyewitness Statement After a Car Accident
If you’re physically able, try to get witness information at the accident scene. Ask for their name, phone number, and a brief description of what they saw. If you can, take notes or even record a short video with their permission.
Pro Tip: If the scene is chaotic or you’re injured, your attorney can still help locate third party witnesses afterward—so don’t stress if you can’t do it all on the spot.
If you’ve already left the scene, your attorney can help locate and interview witnesses. At The Joel Bieber Firm, our team knows how to follow up with eyewitnesses, gather witness statements, and make sure those eyewitness accounts are preserved properly for your auto accident claim.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s clarifying who was at fault or helping push a fair settlement, witness testimony shouldn’t be underestimated.
If you’ve been in a car crash, don’t wait. The sooner you connect with an experienced attorney, the better your chances of securing valuable eyewitness accounts and protecting your rights. Time is critical—memories fade, witnesses move, and crucial details can be lost. That’s why it’s important to act quickly and work with a legal team that knows exactly how to analyze evidence, preserve statements, and pursue maximum compensation.
At The Joel Bieber Firm, we’re committed to building the strongest case possible for every client. From locating expert witnesses to handling negotiations with insurance companies, we take care of the details so you can focus on healing.
Contact us today to schedule your no obligation consultation and start building a case that stands on solid ground.