The aftermath of an accident can be chaotic, and it’s common for victims to feel confused and overwhelmed by this traumatic event. When you’re severely injured, it’s tough to make important decisions. But taking the right steps to protect your claim now can help you recover compensation later.

Understanding how to document your injuries after an accident is fundamental if you want to be compensated. Here’s what you need to know about documenting your case. 

Take Pictures of the Scene

Taking pictures is one of the first and most important steps you should take after an accident. They’re one of the most valuable pieces of evidence and can be used to prove that your injuries are the result of a preventable accident. They’ll also show the damage done to your property and the location of the accident. 

Don’t rely on the accident scene being the same when it’s time for your case. Accident scenes may be cleaned up and repaired, so acting now can help you recover later. 

Seek Medical Attention

Broken bones, brain injuries, and disabilities are only a few of the consequences you could face in a collision that was caused by someone else’s negligence. Seeking medical attention should always be a priority, and failing to do so can hurt your chances of being compensated.

Insurance companies and the at-fault party may accuse you of not taking your injuries seriously, which will put you at a disadvantage during your legal battle. Medical records and an experienced lawyer will make sure that you don’t accept a low settlement offer

A doctor’s appointment is also useful and can help your lawyer during calculations, as you’ll be able to understand the full extent of your injuries, how long a full recovery takes and eventual treatment plans to follow. It’s one of the best ways to document your damages. 

Documenting Injuries with a Journal

Keeping a journal may not seem important, but it can be vital to keeping track of your healing process. Here, you can record your thoughts, your emotions, and how your quality of life is affected by your injuries. 

If you return to your job and experience discomfort, pain, and stress, for example, or if your recovery experiences setbacks, keeping a journal will allow your lawyer to also include these unpleasant events in your compensation. 

Collecting Statements from Witnesses

Neutral third parties who saw what happened represent can be key in a personal injury case. Their recollection of the events that transpired can help you properly document your injuries. If you’re able to, you should speak with witnesses shortly after the accident. 

Their testimony could be what you need for a successful claim, and an attorney can use what they said to prove you’re not the one at fault. Insurance adjusters will also be unable to accuse you of exaggeration when multiple witnesses are describing the collision. 

Talk with an Accident Attorney

Taking these steps when you’re injured can feel impossible, especially if you need to do so while defending your claim from the at-fault party and insurance adjusters. Fortunately, you don’t have to do this without help.

Experienced car accident lawyers at Craig Swapp & Associates know how to protect your rights when insurance companies won’t give you what you deserve. We’re ready to take your claim to trial if needed, as you deserve to be compensated fairly. Call 1-800-404-9000 or complete the online contact form to schedule your free consultation and get started today. 

Written By: Ryan Swapp     Legal Review By: Craig Swapp