The legal proceedings for an accident and injury can take place several months or even over a year after the incident occurs. A lot can be forgotten or lost during this time including important pieces of evidence or observations. The importance of note taking after a car accident is often overlooked but it can prove beneficial.
The notes that you take on the day of the accident and during the following days and weeks can prove extremely helpful for your case. Eventually, you and your lawyer will probably decide to file a claim or personal injury lawsuit. Having extensive notes can help build your case and provide important evidence to help you recover damages. Reach out to a skilled San Mateo County, California motor vehicle accident lawyer for legal representation and advice.
What Should I Be Taking Note Of?
The details that are worth noting will vary depending on the type of accident, your injuries, where it occurred, etc. Keep notice of anything that feels important and even things that may seem trivial. You never know what will help you in the long run.
From the day that the accident occurred, jot down anything you can remember including:
- What time of day it was
- What you were doing or where you were going
- What the weather was
- Who you were with
- Anything you saw, heard, felt, etc. from directly before, during, and after the accident
- Anything you remember someone else saying like the people you were with, the other party, witnesses, police officers, EMTs, etc.
- The condition of the road or area you were in, including if there were any noticeable hazards around
- Information about your injuries from doctors or other medical professionals
In the days and weeks following the accident take note of:
- The state of your injuries and health
- Any feelings of pain or discomfort
- Emotional disturbances like anxiety, depression, etc.
- If you are experiencing loss of sleep
- The treatments and medications that your doctor prescribed
- Pain or injuries that develop over time
- The cost of your medical bills
- Property damage resulting from the accident and the costs to repair damage
- Lost income due to time taken off work for your injury
- Anything you missed out on such as school, interviews, meetings, vacations, time spent with friends or family, etc.
You should present this evidence to a skilled and trusted attorney, especially before filing a claim or lawsuit. The details about your pain and suffering can also help your doctors better understand how you are feeling and what your symptoms are.
What Are My Next Steps?
The days following an accident can be painful and overwhelming especially if you do not have help. Your first priority, after healing and recovering, should be to speak with an experienced attorney. They will help you understand what needs to be done and how to communicate with insurance companies and other necessary parties. Your lawyer will take your notes and use them to help with your injury claim or lawsuit.
You could also return to the location of the accident, if your health permits, to reevaluate the scene in case there was something you missed or speak to witnesses. Contact a skilled attorney to discuss the details of your situation today.
