Documenting Injuries After an Accident for a Personal Injury Lawsuit

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

The first step after any accident should be to seek medical attention, even if you do not immediately feel injured. Some injuries may not present symptoms right away. A medical professional will assess your condition, provide necessary treatment, and create an official record of your injuries. Prompt medical attention is essential for:

• Diagnosing injuries: A healthcare provider can identify and document visible and hidden injuries.
• Establishing a timeline: Early medical records help establish a timeline of your injuries, linking them directly to the accident.
• Creating a treatment plan: A documented treatment plan will outline the care you need and support your claim for future medical expenses.

2. Keep Detailed Personal Records

In addition to medical records, maintain a personal injury journal to document your experience. This can include:

• Daily Symptom Log: Record daily pain levels, physical limitations, and any new symptoms. Be specific about how the injury affects your daily life.
• Treatment and Therapy Details: Note each visit to healthcare providers, treatments received, and any progress or setbacks.
• Impact on Daily Life: Document how your injury impacts your ability to work, perform household tasks, or engage in recreational activities.

3. Gather and Preserve Evidence

Collecting and preserving evidence related to the accident and your injuries is crucial:

• Photographs: Take clear, dated photos of visible injuries, bruises, cuts, and any physical damage. If applicable, photograph the accident scene and property damage.
• Witness Statements: Obtain contact information and written statements from witnesses who observed the accident or your injuries.
• Accident Reports: If applicable, obtain copies of police reports, accident reports, or insurance claim documents.

4. Organize Medical Documents

Organize and retain all medical documents related to your injury:

• Medical Records: Collect and keep copies of hospital records, treatment summaries, and discharge papers.
• Prescriptions and Bills: Save all prescriptions, medication receipts, and medical service bills.
• Follow-up appointments: Keep records of all follow-up appointments and any ongoing treatments or evaluations.

5. Maintain Records of Lost Wages

If your injury has caused you to miss work, document your lost wages:

• Pay Stubs: Keep copies of pay stubs from before and after the accident to show the impact on your earnings.
• Employer Statements: Obtain a statement from your employer detailing your missed workdays and any adjustments to your job responsibilities.

6. Track Psychological and Emotional Impact

Injuries are not only physical but can also have psychological effects:

• Counseling Records: If you seek psychological help, keep records of therapy sessions and counseling notes.
• Emotional Impact Journal: Document any changes in mood, anxiety, or stress related to the accident and injury.

7. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the documentation process and ensure you gather all necessary evidence:

• Legal Advice: An attorney can provide guidance on what documentation is most important for your case.
• Evidence Collection: They can assist in gathering and organizing evidence and ensuring that you comply with legal requirements.

8. Review and Update Regularly

Keep your documentation current and review it regularly:

• Ongoing Updates: Continue to document your condition and treatment as your case progresses.
• Regular Reviews: Periodically review your records with your attorney to ensure all necessary information is included.

Contact Schierer & Ritchie, L.L.C.

If you or a loved one needs legal representation, the attorneys at Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, are here to help. Our dedicated team understands the complexities of the legal system and is committed to providing the best legal services possible.