What Records Do I Need to Put Together a Case?
When you are injured in a motor vehicle accident or are a victim of a personal injury, it is normal to feel overwhelmed with your recovery process as well as the many changes that are no doubt occurring in your life. However, it is crucial that during this time you remember to keep track of information that will help you in your claim to recover expenses and pursue compensation for your losses.
It is essential that you keep track of all expenses that you incur as a result of your injury because you may be able to get that money back. Take note of all out-of-pocket expenses related to your injury, as well as receipts for any costs including:
- Ambulance Fees
- Visitor Accommodations (including hotels, taxis, etc.)
- Medication and Treatment Bills
- Assistive Devices (wheelchairs, crutches, etc.)
- Replacement of Damaged Clothing
- Housekeeping
- Daycare or Babysitting
You may want to write down all of these costs in an expense journal. Having a list of these expenses incurred by your injury all in once place will make for quick reference later when you are putting together your claim. Along with your expense journal, include a file folder of other relevant documents that you will need to support your case. These may include:
- A copy of the accident report (if available)
- Contact information of any witnesses
- Photographs that document the incident
- Copies of your medical records and/or any health problems caused by your injury
- A log of missed work hours or income as a result of your injury
Finally, a letter summarizing the evidence and the events of the accident may be very useful to have on hand. Try to write an account of what happened as soon as you can after you have been injured so that you do not forget any important details. By organizing all the information relevant to your case, it will be much easier for you and your lawyer to work together to make a claim that may succeed in getting you compensation for your losses.