Considerations for Documenting Personal Injury Expenses

Experienced auto accident attorney Jeff Scholnick discusses the important factors to consider when dealing with the documentation of personal injuries.

Auto accidents can be traumatic and life-changing experiences. A crash may impact you in many ways, one of which being the sustained injuries thereafter. When Medical bills begin to accumulate, and car insurance policies become confusing, you may find yourself looking for an answer.

Documentation for personal injuries is necessary when it comes to your car insurance claim. If you provide as much relevant information as possible to your insurer they can help facilitate a smooth and quick accident investigation process. If you are injured in an auto accident, the following tips for thorough documentation of your injuries can help ensure that you get adequate compensation from your insurance provider.

1. Photographs –One of the best ways to document your accident and any related personal injuries. If possible, include photos of:

• The car’s damage
• The location of the accident
• Your injuries
• Recent photos of yourself taken before the injuries occurred

Remember, taking close-up shots and long distance shot may be beneficial for your case.

2. A journal – Keep a journal recording your injuries, symptoms, and medical attention throughout the process. Be precise in detailing all aspects of your experience including the daily extent of your pain. Even the smallest of details can be significant information.
3. Correspondence with medical professionals – Keep track of any form of communication you hold with medical experts. Be sure to note what they said and when they said it.
4. Medical-related receipts – Receipts are vital pieces of information that will help you get the proper compensation. Be sure to provide receipts for:

• Prescriptions
• Special foods
• Co-payments
• Equipment (crutches, walkers, canes)

5. Travel expenses – Keep track of your trips to medical appointments, especially if they’re a ways away.
6. Lost income – Note precisely how much money you’ve lost due to your injuries. Be sure to mention how much time off of work you may have missed and how much income could have been made during this time.

It’s important to document all of these factors as it relates to personal injuries. Another good piece of advice is to avoid settling too early. The claims adjuster you may be dealing with will want immediate resolution, but this might not be the best course of action for your unique case. Remember that if your claim has already been settled, you may not be able to receive reimbursement for your future treatments.

If you are overwhelmed by process of filing a claim, consider hiring a personal injury attorney to represent you. An experienced personal injury attorney thoroughly understands the laws and the elements of a claims process. A good attorney can further help you when it comes to documenting personal injury expenses. That way, you’re able to focus on healing, rather than the case itself.

For more information on personal injury documentation, contact experienced personal injury attorney Jeff Scholnick in Towson, Maryland today.