Aside from any physical ways a crash can affect your life, the expenses you incur as a result of the treatment you receive can be devastating and something you have to deal with for years. You may be financially responsible for astronomical medical bills, auto insurance deductibles and lost wages.
“The scope of your post-accident photography and documentation could make or break your personal injury case. A picture truly is worth a thousand words. That being said, your health and safety should come first. If you have been seriously hurt in a car crash, get emergency assistance immediately,” Brad Parker says.
Here are ways in which you can document important details following an auto accident:
TAKE PHOTOGRAPHS
- Make sure to take photos of your car’s damage.
- Take close-up and long-distance shots.
- Photograph the accident location.
- Include stop signs and traffic lights, if applicable.
- Photograph your injuries.
- Include recent photos of yourself taken before the injuries occurred.
- Take photos of the other vehicle and include photos of that license plate.
- Take photos of the other driver’s license and insurance card.
KEEP A JOURNAL
- Log your injuries, symptoms and medical attention.
- Be precise about everything and include the daily extent of your pain. Even the smallest details can be significant.
- Keep a list of all medical professionals who provide accident related care.
SAVE ALL RECEIPTS
- Some examples of receipts you should keep track of include: prescriptions, special equipment (crutches, walkers, canes), and co-payments.
KEEP TRACK OF ALL OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSES
- Document your travel expenses for medical appointments. You are entitled to be reimbursed for these costs.
- Keep track of any lost income due to your injuries.
Following a vehicle accident, the extent of the property damage to your car or truck may not be detectable to the naked eye. Damage hidden behind panels, or underneath the car on the frame may only be revealed after a complete vehicle inspection. The importance of complete property damage documentation cannot be underestimated, even if you think there is little to no damage to your vehicle.
Time is of the essence when it comes to documenting the events or outcomes following a wreck. While there may be details that seem insignificant to you at the time, they could end up being important down the road. It’s easy to sift out unnecessary paperwork, but you can’t go back in time and document vital factors that may affect your case.
“You’ve heard the expression, ‘time heals all wounds.’ Many clients may forget the significance of their injuries and impairment or how much damage was done to their property after some time has passed,” Parker says. “We instruct our clients to keep a diary of the events so they can refresh their memories about what took place.”
For more information on what to do following a car or truck collision, call Parker Law Firm and set up a complimentary strategy session. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling 817.440.3888 today.
Have You Been Injured In A Texas Area Car Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident you need to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Bedford, Texas office directly at 817.440.3888 to schedule your free consultation. We help car accident victims throughout Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington as well as all areas of Texas.
