When you are hurt in an accident, your priorities should always be getting to safety and securing medical care. Always prioritize those steps. When you can, document your injuries after your accident, including right after the incident and on an ongoing basis.
Once you learn how to document your injuries after an accident, you’ll be able to minimize the risk of receiving a denial from the insurance company for coverage of those losses. Here are some strategies from an auto accident lawyer in Nashville to help you do that.
Take Photos When You Can
The best way to document your injuries right after an accident is to take photos. This process allows you to demonstrate what happened at the time of the accident, making it clear that the incident is what led to the injuries you have. Never put your safety at risk when taking these steps, but when you can, take photos of your injuries, the surrounding area, and any debris or other evidence of the accident.
Get to the Hospital Right Away
The main goal is to show that your injuries come from the accident, and you would not have those injuries if you were not in the accident. By going to the hospital right after the accident, it is clear where the injury happened.
When you arrive at the hospital, ask the medical team to provide full documentation of the tests run and the injuries you have. Be sure to inform them about the type of accident so that a comprehensive set of tests can be run to rule out any type of hidden injuries you may have.
Use your doctor’s notes as a starting point. However, make sure you get follow-up care. Go to any specialists recommended for you, and be sure to follow up with your primary care provider. Each of these appointments can provide you with documentation of your injuries.
Keep a Journal
For most people, injuries do not just go away after going to the doctor. You need time to heal. You can continue to document your injuries after an accident in a journal. Write down factors such as:
- What you feel and what limitations you have throughout the day
- New diagnosis or changes to your care plans and treatment after each appointment
- Recovery notes, including what benefits or improvements you are seeing
- Statements and rehabilitation notes from your therapists documenting your recovery and limitations
- Personal notes about the pain you are feeling on any given day, including where and how bad it is
These details clearly demonstrate how your injuries are impacting your life. That will help you to build a claim later that clearly shows the impact these injuries have had on your health.
Get Specialist Details for Catastrophic Injuries
If you suffer catastrophic injuries that will not improve any further, make sure you document that information with your doctor. You will want your doctor to provide a statement that shows that you have reached your maximum recovery level.
Speak to a Car Accident Attorney About What You Are Facing
Seeking the help of your personal injury attorney can also help you document your injuries after an accident. Your accident lawyer will guide you in ensuring you have clearly demonstrated what happened at every stage of your recovery process. Contact us today for a free consultation.
