Maximizing Recovery in Injury Cases with Photographs

While it may seem obvious to photograph injuries following an accident, many injury victims do not photograph the injuries, or do so incorrectly. Since bruises, lacerations, deformities, etc. tell the tale of the injury, properly photographing an injury early will maximize a victim’s recovery. Here are some hints for photography:

1. Always have someone other than the victim take the photos.
2. Take many photos of the injury as soon as possible following the accident. If possible, photograph the injuries prior to being seen by doctors.
3. Take the photos in a well-lit area. Dark photos are not much help.
4. The victim’s face must be seen in at least some of the photos to authenticate the victim.
5. Take photos from several distances and angles. This will help identify where on the body the injury is located and give us the extent of the injury from all angles.
6. Take photos of the injury along with the non-injury body part. For example, if the injury is to a foot, take at least one photograph showing both feet side by side. This helps us compare “normal” vs. “abnormal”.
7. Make sure the photos are sharp and clean. Blurry photos are very little help.
8. Take the photos in front of a plainbackground, if possible, and avoid distracting backgrounds, such as a televisions or an unkept room.
9. Do NOT post the photos on social media!
10. Take photos at different stages of healing.
11. If the victim is bedridden, take photos of the victim in their surrounding room, such as in a hospital bed, or at the house.
12. Always save the photos until the case is concluded.