Even minor accidents can lead to severe injuries and impact your life in countless ways. If you are the victim of a careless driver, you should understand that sitting back and allowing the insurance companies to settle the case could be a big mistake. You can improve your settlement offer by ensuring that your accident and the resulting medical treatments are well-documented in the event that you end up pursuing a personal injury case against the at-fault driver. Don't wait until it's too late. Act now to preserve those important and valuable memories of the accident. Read on to learn more.

The Accident Event

Being involved in a traumatic event like a car accident, no matter how minor, can rattle the nerves, but getting your thoughts and impressions of the events of that day down on paper is vital. Memories can come and go, and sometimes details will come to you after a few days or weeks. Take the time to record everything you can remember about that day. You can use a notebook or a journal and hand write your notes, or record them with your phone or computer. Make an effort to remember:

  • Where you were going, your route, who was with you, the date, the time and as much as you can recall about weather and road conditions that day.
  • The moments leading up to the impact of the crash: your speed, your lane of travel and the actions of all other drivers (especially the driver who hit you).
  • The moment of the crash: the sounds of metal on metal and glass breaking, the airbag inflation, pain, jolts.

After the Accident

After the accident, one of the most important things you might recall is what the other driver or passengers said about the accident at the scene, specifically admissions of fault. Also try to remember whether you needed help exiting your vehicle or were able to get out on your own and whether you needed to be transported to the hospital. Record anything you recall about the actions of the first responders.

Injuries and Medical Treatment

Making a list of all medical procedures, hospitalizations, tests, surgeries and medications prescribed will help you keep track of costs you'll need compensation for. Summarize the emotional toll the accident has taken on both you and your family, including depression, anxiety, moodiness, anger, appetite and sleep disturbances.

If you are not getting satisfaction from the insurance companies, you may need to consult with a personal injury attorney for additional info and to ensure that you get compensated for the impact that this accident has had on you. 

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