Build a timeline that separates facts, estimates and follow-up work
A useful timeline lets another reader trace each statement to a photograph, message, record or clearly labeled recollection.
Updated October 17, 2026 · By Hit & Run Evidence Preservation · Original practical guidance · Examples are illustrative
Start with the events you can describe
Create one row per event with a date, time or time range, description, source and confidence note. If you discovered damage after returning to a parked car, record the discovery and the last known undamaged observation separately. Do not use discovery time as the collision time.
Keep unknown times unknown. An approximate recollection can still be useful when labeled as an estimate. Include the time zone when comparing records from different systems, and retain the original displayed time when a recording’s clock may be inaccurate.
Connect each row to a source
A source can be your own observation, an original photograph, a message or an agency document. Give each source a short identifier and use that identifier in the timeline. A claim supplied by another person should remain attributed to that person.
Illustrative sequence: 2:10 p.m. — last saw the car undamaged, approximate personal recollection. 3:35 p.m. — discovered damage, phone photograph PHOTO-01. 4:10 p.m. — emailed camera operator, saved message EMAIL-01. These rows document different events; they do not establish who caused the damage.
Keep leads distinct from conclusions
A possible camera location belongs in your evidence-source list and can be referenced in the timeline. Describe its coverage as unconfirmed until an operator or recording establishes it. Similarly, a vehicle description or route suggestion is a lead unless supported by reliable evidence.
When a new record changes your understanding, add a dated note explaining the change and its source. Keep the earlier entry available so a reader can understand why the record evolved. Avoid deleting an uncertainty merely because a later interpretation seems persuasive.
Prepare a readable version for follow-up
Before sharing, check that each statement has a source or an uncertainty label, filenames match the files you intend to supply and dates are consistent. Include a short list of unanswered questions rather than filling gaps with assumptions.
Download a dated version of your worksheet. If you later send a revised timeline, label it as a revision and retain the previous sent version. The website helps organize notes; it does not independently verify events, identify a driver or submit records to police.
Further reading on keeping digital records
The Library of Congress personal digital archiving resources explain general approaches to keeping photographs, video, email and documents. These are preservation resources, not crash-specific legal instructions. The worked examples on this page are our own illustrations.
Continue your record
Open the evidence utility to organize your notes, or read another guide.
General educational information. For reporting requirements, access rights or legal deadlines, consult the relevant agency or a qualified professional.