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Take Note: How To Preserve Your Memory After An Accident

26 June 2015 by Lawrence Miller

Being involved in a car wreck is always a traumatic event, no matter how minor it may at first appear. If the accident was not your fault, you assume that the other guy's insurance company will do the "right thing" and compensate you for your injuries and personal property damage, but making assumptions like those could cost you a fair settlement offer.

Proving your claim could come down to important, and easily missed, details about your accident and your resulting medical treatments and recovery. Your case could take months to settle, and memories fade with time. Read on to find out how to keep a notebook record of your accident to increase your likelihood of getting a fair settlement.

The Accident Itself

As soon as you are well enough, get a notebook (or use your smartphone or computer if you prefer) and begin your notes with the accident itself. Keep your notes with you and jot down anything you remember, since memories may come to you in bits and pieces. Include all of the following that you can recall about the accident:

• Where you were going, who was with you, time and date, the weather.
• What you saw prior to impact (did you notice the other driver being erratic or speeding?) and any other cars that you noticed around you at the time.
• The physical effects you experienced at the time of impact, such as a jolt, hearing the shattering of glass, pain and blows to any body parts, etc.

After the Accident

• How you got out of the vehicle (on your own, with help or needed be cut out).
• What, if anything, you heard anyone say after the accident. Hearing the other party's admission of wrong-doing at this time could be important.
• Any actions by first responders should be noted as well.

Your Medical Treatments and Issues

• All hospitalizations, tests, medications, surgeries and procedures.
• All on-going care and therapy
• All issues concerning mental effects of the accident such as depression, anxiety and trouble sleeping.
• Any mental and effects on your loved ones as a result of the accident.

Lost Work and Opportunities

• List your missed work and any missed opportunities such as a job interview or an important client meeting you missed.
• List missed training or education opportunities.
• List missed vacations or events.

These notes will prove invaluable when it comes time to create a demand letter or if you have to take your case to court. Consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to help you get the compensation you are entitled to receive.  

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