How to Document Your Claim Properly

If you were just injured in a car accident, you are probably in a dazed or panic state. It is not easy to remain calm and composed in the days and weeks following your accident. This is especially true if you have been injured in the accident. You are very likely dealing with extensive paperwork, insurance companies, adjusters and medical bills. Life can become rather chaotic.

Despite the chaos around you and the turmoil within, this is a critical time when it comes to documenting your personal injury claim. The importance of gathering evidence, talking to witnesses on the scene, taking photographs is probably the last thing you are thinking about in the aftermath of a traumatic car accident. That said, if you want to make sure that you are fairly compensated for your injuries, damages and losses, you will need to do all of the above and then some to make sure that you receive the compensation that you rightfully deserve.

Here is a quick checklist of the information you will need to document your claim properly. This checklist may be used to organize your information, which you will eventually use to discuss your claim with an insurance company or turn over to your lawyer who is handling your auto accident case.

Information from the accident scene

• Information about the driver including name, driver’s license number, vehicle license plate number, insurance company name and policy number.
• Take as many photographs as you can at the scene of the crash including your injuries, vehicle damage and of the scene in general.
• Always make sure you get a copy of the police report.

Information after the accident

• Medical costs including doctor visits, prescriptions, diagnostic and lab tests, medications (prescription and over-the-counter), physical therapy, chiropractic
• services. Make sure you make a note of dates, times and amounts charged as well as the reason for seeing the medical providers.
• Record work time lost as a result of injuries. Include time you had to take off for medical treatments and your lack of ability to function properly at work because of your injuries. It would also help to get a letter from your employer confirming your lost pay and lost time. If you are a student, make sure you record school time lost. Also document your inability to continue with school work as you did prior to the crash.
• Try and contact witnesses. Obtain their contact information.
• Document pain, discomfort, emotional distress, mental anguish, exhaustion and inconveniences caused by your injuries. You would be well-advised to keep a daily log or journal documenting your thoughts and how you feel each day. Also record what effect your injuries have had on your everyday life, activities and relationships.
• List property damage, specifically car repair estimates and bills.
• Keep track of out-of-pocket expenses – be it for medical care or to fix your car.
• This is very important – Keep copies of all documents, bills and medical records.

Remember, under no circumstances should you hand over your documents to an insurance adjuster or attorney for the other side. This could be used against you, very likely, to minimize the value of your claim. Consult an experienced Washington car accident attorney, who will be able to guide you efficiently through what can be an extremely complex legal process.

IF YOU, OR A LOVED ONE, HAVE BEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN A CAR ACCIDENT IN WASHINGTON – CALL TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION!