After a car accident, you may have sustained injuries that will take a while to recover from. These injuries may affect your ability to go back to work and your normal daily activities.
Following the collision, you may focus the majority of your time and energy on recovering. As you do this, there are several steps you should take to document your injuries and your recovery process.
Gather photographic evidence
Use your smartphone or any available camera to take clear pictures of your wounds, bruises and any visible injuries. Ensure that the images are well-lit and provide a comprehensive view of the affected areas. This visual documentation becomes a record that can serve as support in any subsequent medical evaluations or insurance claims.
Write down detailed descriptions
Instead of noting “pain in the neck,” specify the intensity, type of pain and any associated symptoms, like numbness or tingling. These detailed descriptions not only assist medical professionals in tailoring the appropriate treatment but also serve as evidence when communicating with insurance companies.
Collect medical documentation
In 2021, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2.1 million visits to the emergency room occurred due to car accident injuries. Seek immediate medical attention after an accident, even if injuries seem minor at first. Ensure that all medical evaluations, diagnoses and treatment plans get thoroughly documented by healthcare professionals. This includes emergency room visits, consultations with specialists and any prescribed medications.
Track your recovery journey
Regularly note any changes in symptoms, progress in physical therapy or adjustments in medication. This ongoing record not only aids your healthcare team in adapting your treatment plan but also strengthens your case.
Documenting your injuries is a proactive measure that can impact your recovery and any potential insurance claims. By incorporating photographs, detailed descriptions, official medical records and consistent updates, you can create a record that facilitates a smoother path toward healing.
